How do compression stockings work in helping blood move out of the legs ? The gradient in compression stockings, also known as graduated compression, is designed to apply the highest level of pressure at the ankle—typically ranging from 15-20 mmHg for mild support up to 30-40 mmHg or more for medical-grade options—and then progressively decrease that pressure as it moves upward along the leg toward the knee. This means that 100% of the pressure is applied at the level of the ankle, 70% of the ma