Activa Class II Below Knee Closed Toe Compression Stocking Black – Medium

Yes. The compression class — 18–24 mmHg graduated pressure at the ankle — is identical across all sizes within the Activa Class II range. The size determines the circumference of the stocking and therefore how correctly it fits the leg, but it does not alter the compression level delivered. A medium and a large Class II stocking both deliver the same pressure profile when correctly fitted to a leg within their respective size ranges. Wearing the wrong size changes how safely and effectively that pressure is delivered — an oversized stocking provides inadequate compression, and an undersized one creates harmful excess pressure — which is why accurate sizing is so important at this compression level.

Class II stockings are noticeably stiffer and require considerably more force to pull up the leg than Class I stockings of the same size. The elastic is stronger to deliver the higher therapeutic pressure, which makes the fabric more resistant to stretching during application. Most wearers of Class II stockings find that a donning frame and rubber application gloves are essential rather than optional — these tools significantly reduce the effort and frustration of application. Allow more time in the morning than you would for Class I, particularly during the first few weeks of use while the technique becomes familiar. If application is consistently very difficult or painful, speak to your pharmacist or community nurse.

A move from Class I to Class II typically indicates that Class I compression has not adequately controlled your venous symptoms — either oedema has persisted, skin changes have developed or progressed, a venous ulcer has occurred or recurred, or a clinical assessment has indicated a higher degree of venous disease that requires more substantial support. Class II delivers approximately one third more pressure than Class I and is often the appropriate next step when lighter compression proves insufficient. The decision to increase compression class should always be made by a healthcare professional following assessment of your venous status and confirmation that arterial supply is adequate to tolerate the higher pressure safely.

Yes, Class II compression hosiery is prescribable on the NHS for patients who meet the clinical criteria. If your GP or vascular nurse has recommended Class II compression, ask whether prescription hosiery is appropriate for your situation — this may provide the stockings at no cost (for those exempt from prescription charges) or at the standard prescription charge rather than the full retail price. Our Pearl Chemist Group pharmacies can dispense NHS compression prescriptions and advise on the process if you have been prescribed compression hosiery by your GP or specialist.

Replace when the stocking feels noticeably less firm or supportive than when it was new — when it feels easier to apply than it used to, when it no longer creates the same firm pressure sensation on the leg during wear, or when it rolls or slips more easily. Class II stockings should also be replaced every three to six months with daily use regardless of apparent condition, as elastic fibre fatigue is not always visible to the naked eye. A Class II stocking that has lost its compression may be delivering only Class I or even lower levels of pressure — for patients relying on Class II for venous ulcer prevention or significant disease management, this is clinically significant and prompt replacement is important.

Yes. Pearl Chemist Group stocks the Activa Class II Below Knee range in multiple sizes and in both black and sand colourways. Browse our full compression hosiery range online for all available Class II options, or visit your nearest branch where our pharmacists can fit you accurately and advise on the correct size and compression level for your clinical needs.