Assessment of Graduated Compression Stockings: Variation in Fabric Properties Among Different Sizes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the physical properties of one size range (S-XXL) of a commercial brand of medical grade GCS and determine how the material properties change between sock sizes. Understanding these differences could help GCS manufacturers improve their sizing design process, resulting in more consistent pressure properties across sock sizes. One pair of a complete size range of knee-length medical grade GCS were purchased from a reputed domestic manufacturer. The medium compression GCS were made of 90%bamboo 10%spandex, with a pressure range of 20-30mmHg, knitted on Lonati 240N circular sock machine. ANOVA was used to evaluate the effect of ‘SockSize’ and Level (‘Ankle’ and ‘Calf’) on all dependent variables. The results of this study highlight the inconsistent fabric properties across a size range of medical grade GCS, with the larger sizes having potentially lower pressures on the leg than the smaller sizes.