Guides

Practical guides on compression stockings, braces, sizing and Canadian insurance coverage — from the Alignova Medical team in Markham.

Three tiers of back brace: an elastic lumbar support, a semi-rigid brace with stays and a rigid Aspen LSO
Back Braces for Lower Back Pain: Which Type Do You Need?
Last updated
Elastic knitted supports, semi-rigid belts with stays, rigid LSO and TLSO bracing, SI joint belts and posture or maternity orthoses — what each family does, who it suits, which models... Read more...
Donning aids for compression stockings: a roll-on cone, a slide frame and grip gloves
How to Put On Compression Stockings Without a Fight
Last updated
A correct compression stocking is supposed to resist. The morning timing, the inside-out-to-the-heel technique, the rubber-glove trick, silicone bands that actually stay up — and the donning aids we stock... Read more...
A GenuTrain compression support beside a GenuTrain OA unloader brace, the two options for knee osteoarthritis
Knee Braces for Osteoarthritis: A Practical Guide
Last updated
How compression supports and unloader braces help manage knee osteoarthritis, the difference between the two families, which models we stock for each — and why bracing is one of the... Read more...
Leg measurement diagram showing the ankle cB, calf cC and thigh cG measuring points
How to Measure Your Legs for Compression Stockings (Step-by-Step)
Last updated
Compression stockings are sized by measurement, not shoe size. Where the ankle (cB), calf (cC) and thigh (cG) points sit on your body, why you measure in the morning on... Read more...
Diagram comparing 20-30 and 30-40 mmHg graduated compression, pressure strongest at the ankle
20-30 vs 30-40 mmHg Compression Stockings: Which Level Do You Need?
Last updated
What graduated compression means, what each pressure level is typically recommended for, why a higher number isn't automatically better — and why the right size matters more than the level. Read more...
Three steps to an insurance claim: get a prescription, we send an estimate, your plan reimburses
How to Claim Compression Stockings Through Your Health Insurance in Canada
Last updated
Most Canadian extended health plans reimburse medical-grade compression stockings when a doctor prescribes them. The prescription, the free estimate, insurer-by-insurer pre-approval, and the CRA tax credit backstop — in the... Read more...