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Patient Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a Warranty?

Prefabricated garments are provided a 48-hour fitting warranty. If you are having difficulty or concerns with the fit or style of your garment, or you are experiencing skin irritation from the fabric, please call our office and if possible we will assist you in finding an alternate garment for exchange. 

Custom-made garments are provided with a 10 day fitting warranty. Please contact the office immediately with any concerns in comfort or sizing. 


Warranty does not cover colour, pulls and runs or wear and tear.
There will be no fitting warranty if two or more garments of same items are ordered based on previous sizing. 


Please contact our office if you have any concerns or questions outside of the warranty window.  

How do compression garments work?

Compression stockings work differently depending on the condition.

Compression garments are designed to provide an external wall to affected area, to assist with circulation and minimize swelling. Compression garments provide graduated compression. This means that the strongest compression begins at the farthest point and gradually decreases compression towards the top of the garment. Gradual compression is designed to work in conjunction with the natural pumping action of the body.

Are compression stockings uncomfortable?

It is a common fear for some that compression stockings will cut off circulation or be uncomfortable. However, when fitted and worn properly, compression stockings should be comfortable and assist with circulation, not  restrict it. As your CertiCare fitter, we will work with you in deciding what garment would best suit your needs.

Do I wear my compression to sleep?

Your daytime compression garments (i.e. stockings, socks or sleeve/glove) should be worn during waking hours only.  These garments should be removed in the evening.  If you were recommended a night garment or compression wrap, these may be worn 24 hours if needed.

Individual care plans are different for everyone, so it is important to follow the instructions of your health care provider. 

How often should I wash my garments?

Compression garments should be washed after each use to maintain hygiene and preserve their elasticity. This helps remove sweat, oils, and bacteria that can build up and affect the garment's performance. Regular washing helps the elastic fibers of the garment to relax and retain their shape, ensuring the compression remains effective.  Built-up sweat and oils can weaken the elastic fibers and diminish the garment's ability to provide compression, so washing after each wear is crucial.

When is a preventative compression garment necessary?

It is suggested for prevention to wear a compression garment when flying, exercising or if doing any continuous movement or putting a strain on the affected limb like gardening, baking/cooking, cleaning and golf.​​

FAQ

What are the compression garments made of?

Compression garments are typically made from a blend of synthetic elastic fibers that provide stretch and pressure.  The most common materials used are elastane (lycra/spandex), polyamide (nylon), polyester, cotton and Merino.  ​

The specific blend varies depending on the intended use (medical, athletic, aesthetic).  For example, medical grade compression garments may use a higher percentage of elastane for stronger compression levels.

Can I choose my own colour?

​Yes you can from a variety of colors, shades, and sometimes even prints! However, medical-grade compression prescribed for specific conditions, may have more limited color options.  

Will my insurance cover compression garments?

Most extended insurance plans do offer coverage for medical-grade compression garments w/ a prescription.  We recommend contacting your provider for confirmation of your benefits.

Can you direct bill to my insurance?

We do not offer direct billing to private insurance plans, other than those we have listed.  We will provide you with a paid receipt to submit to your insurance following the final fitting.

Is there any funding assistance? 

The Government of Ontario offers a program for patients who have been diagnosed with Lymphedema (Assistive Devices Program or ADP), which can cover 75% or 100% (if on ODSP, EHSS) of the cost of your compression garments. CertiCare is a registered vendor for the Assistive Devices Program. Speak to your Ontario Physician, Certified ADP Therapist or one of our certified ADP Fitters to find out more about the program and if you would be eligible.

Is a Physician's prescription required for everything? 

Travel or preventative garments may be purchased without a prescription but they will be subject to tax. For all other medical compression garments a Physician’s prescription is required.

What do the different compression classes mean? 

See the chart below

      Daily Care of Garments

Hand Washing (Recommended):

1. Fill your sink or a basin with lukewarm water

2. Add a mild detergent (no bleach or fabric softener)

3. Gently agitate the garment in the water

4. Rinse thoroughly with cool water

5. Remove excess water by pressing on the garment gently, and/or rolling into a towel to absorb any excess moisture

6.  Hand or lay flat to dry away from direct heat

Machine Washing (See garment label):

1. Use a lingerie bag to protect the garment

2. Select a gentle/delicate cycle with cold or lukewarm water

3. Use only a mild detergent (no bleach or fabric softener)

4. Hang/Lay flat to dry (recommended) or tumble dryer on no heat setting.

NOTE: It is always best to skip the dryer!

Always check the care label on your specific garment, as some materials or medical grades may have special instructions.

Donning & Doffing:

As instructed by your Fitter, we strongly encourage you to use the donning gloves, provided with your garment, for applying and removing your garment.  These gloves not only help grip the garment for easier application, but they also prevent runs and holes from jewelry, nails or fingers.  If you did not receive gloves with your first order, please feel free to contact our office.  The first pair is always free!  

Latex Free donning gloves are also available for purchase.

Daily Care
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Class 1 - 20-30mmHg

Class 1 compression stockings provide 20-30mmHg (units of compression) and require a prescription from your Physician. You may require a Class 1 stocking if you meet any of the following indications:

 

  • Aching and fatigues legs,

  • Mild varicosities,

  • Mild venous insufficiency,

  • Post sclerotherapy,

  • Mild edema,

  • History of DVT,

  • Pregnancy,

  • Burn scar management, and/or

  • Varicose veins.

Class 2 - 30-40mmHg

Class 2 compression stockings provide 30-40mmHg (units of compression) and require a prescription from your Physician. You may require a Class 2 stocking if you meet any of the following indications:

 

  • Varicosities,

  • Moderate edema,

  • Stasis dermatitis,

  • Chronic venous insufficiency,

  • Post thrombosis,

  • DVT/post thrombotic syndrome,

  • Post-surgical,

  • Pronounced varices during pregnancy,

  • Burn scars,

  • Mild/moderate lymphedema.

Class 3 - 40-50mmHg & Class 4 - 50-60mmHg

Class 3 and 4 compression stockings provide anywhere from 40-60mmHg (units of compression) and require a prescription from your Physician. You may require a Class 3 or 4 stocking if you meet any of the following indications:

 

  • Severe edema,

  • Post thrombotic syndrome,

  • Severe lymphedema,

  • Recurrent venous ulcers,

  • Severe venous insufficiency,

  • Elephantitis

Compression Classes
Travel & Support - 15-20mmHg

With minimal swelling, diabetes, long sessions of sitting or standing, or travel, a support sock may be recommended. Any lack of activity of the leg muscles slow blood circulation, which could lead to the formation of blood clots.

Other risk factors include:

  • diagnosed vein disease,

  • blood clotting disorders,

  • recent surgery,

  • smoking, excess weight,

  • high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

 

If you are a frequent flyer, you may have heard of a DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis). A DVT is a blood clot in the deep veins, usually occurring in the legs. If the blood clot dislodges from the vein wall and moves through the venous system, it could potentially block a vein in the heart, brain or lungs. To help reduce your risk of a DVT, one of the few and simple precautions is to wear a compression garment. Compression garments will provide support to the vein walls, and encourage good blood flow.

Travel and support socks can be purchased OTC, when the compression class is between 15-20mmHg, however we do encourage you to discuss with your Physician if compression garments is right for you.

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