mmHg of graduated compression in medical-grade stockings
typical recovery acceleration with proper orthotic bracing
reduction in re-injury risk with custom-fitted supports
average fitting appointment — fast, thorough, comfortable
Why Fit Matters More Than Product
Walk into any pharmacy and you will find shelves of generic compression socks and elastic knee sleeves. But a sleeve pulled off a rack at "medium" may deliver 8 mmHg at the ankle when your prescription calls for 20, or may compress unevenly — worsening your swelling instead of treating it. An ill-fitted brace worn for months can create secondary muscle weaknesses, skin breakdown, and false confidence that leads to reinjury.
Clinical measurement changes outcomes. In a properly fitted compression stocking, the compression gradient is highest at the ankle and decreases predictably up the leg — the only mechanism that drives venous blood against gravity. In a properly calibrated orthopaedic brace, joint axes align, straps apply force at the right landmarks, and the device integrates with your gait or movement pattern rather than fighting it. That difference cannot be achieved without measuring you.
Simply put: the same compression stocking that protects one patient's leg can be dangerous for someone with reduced arterial circulation. Every fitting at our clinic begins with a vascular screen. We never fit compression without it.
Products by Body Zone & Condition
Select the area you need support for and we will show you the devices we stock and fit:
Lace-Up Ankle Brace
Best for: Ankle sprains (grades I–III), chronic instability, return-to-sport
How it works: Rigid figure-8 strapping limits inversion/eversion while allowing plantarflexion for natural gait.
Air-Stirrup / AirCast
Best for: Acute lateral sprains, post-fracture mobilisation, ATFL rehabilitation
How it works: Semi-rigid shell with pneumatic air bladders provides compression and proprioceptive feedback without immobilising dorsiflexion.
Compression Ankle Sleeve
Best for: Mild oedema, Achilles tendinopathy, post-run recovery
How it works: Graduated 15–20 mmHg knit sleeve reduces swelling, warms the joint, and enhances sensory feedback.
Don't see your condition listed? Contact us — we stock over 40 device types and can source custom fabrications on request.
Understanding Compression Levels at a Glance
Compression is measured in millimetres of mercury (mmHg) — the same unit used for blood pressure. Here's a plain-English guide to what each class means and who needs it:
| Feature | Off-the-Shelf | Professionally Fitted |
|---|---|---|
| Compression accuracy | ±30–50% deviation common | ±5% verified at fitting |
| Sizing | S/M/L approximation | 8-point circumference measurement |
| Vascular screen | None | Included at every fitting |
| Insurance coverage | Usually not covered | Covered with prescription |
| Replacement guidance | None | Tracked; reminder at 6 months |
| Donning training | Printed leaflet | Hands-on with aids provided |
What Happens at Your Fitting Appointment
Most patients are surprised by how thorough — and how quick — a professional fitting is. Here is what to expect:
Referral & Assessment
Your physiotherapist reviews your diagnosis, imaging, and functional goals. A prescription or referral (where required) is documented for insurance purposes.
Measurement Session
Limb circumference, length, and shape are measured at standardised anatomical landmarks — usually 5–8 measurements for stockings and joint braces. Measurements are taken at rest and under load for dynamic orthoses.
Fitting & Calibration
The selected device is fitted and adjusted. For stockings, compression gradient is verified with a handheld Doppler in select cases. Braces are aligned to joint centres and strap tension calibrated.
Education & Wear Schedule
You leave knowing exactly how to put on, take off, clean, and inspect your device. A personalised wear schedule and warning signs checklist are provided in writing.
Follow-Up & Replacement
Medical-grade compression stockings lose elasticity after 4–6 months of daily use. We track your fitting history and contact you when replacement is due. Braces are reassessed as your condition evolves.
Conditions We Fit Braces & Stockings For
Our certified fitters work alongside the physiotherapy team to ensure every device is prescribed as part of a complete rehabilitation plan — not in isolation:
- Chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins
- Lymphoedema and post-surgical limb swelling
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prevention during travel or post-op
- Ankle instability and recurrent sprains
- Knee osteoarthritis and compartment syndrome
- ACL, MCL, and meniscus rehabilitation
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner's knee)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome and wrist tendinopathy
- De Quervain's tenosynovitis
- Lumbar disc herniation and post-spinal surgery
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction and pelvic girdle pain
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain (night splints)
- Sports injuries — return-to-play bracing
- Pregnancy-related varicose veins and oedema
How to Prepare for Your Fitting
Best time to measure legs
Leg measurements for compression stockings should be taken in the morning before oedema accumulates, before you have been standing more than 30 minutes. If possible, rest with feet elevated for 20 minutes beforehand.
Bring your prescription & ID
A physician's prescription or referral note is required for Class II+ stockings and most insurance claims. Bring your benefit card and photo ID. If you don't have a referral, call us — our physiotherapists can issue one after assessment.
Wear light, accessible clothing
Shorts or loose trousers make leg measurements easy. For wrist/hand devices, avoid bulky jewellery. For back braces, wear a thin layer so alignment can be assessed over the torso.
Tell us about skin conditions
Active skin breakdown, open wounds, allergies to latex or nylon, and previous reactions to compression should all be disclosed before fitting. We stock hypoallergenic liners and alternative materials for sensitive skin.
Why Choose Oakville Physiotherapy Centre for Your Fitting?
A fitting is only as good as the knowledge behind it. Here is what sets our service apart from a pharmacy or medical supply store:
- Certified compression fitters on staff
- Medical-grade brands: Sigvaris, Juzo, Bauerfeind, DonJoy, Össur
- Direct billing to most extended health insurance plans
- Measurement + fitting by the same physiotherapist managing your rehab
- Custom fabrication for non-standard limb shapes and post-oncology cases
- Paediatric and elderly fitting specialists
- Device loan program while custom orders are processed
- Detailed wear instructions — no guessing how tight it should feel
Insurance & Direct Billing
Most extended health benefit plans cover orthopaedic braces and prescription compression garments — but only with proper documentation. We prepare all required receipts, itemised invoices, and supporting clinical notes. We direct bill Sun Life, Manulife, Great-West Life, Desjardins, Chamber of Commerce, and most other major Canadian insurers.