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3M™ Bauer & Black™ Athletic Supporter, Medium, 1 Each (Athletic Supporters) - Img 1

Key Features

Built to the spec
clinicians trust.

01

Graduated Compression

Pressure graded from ankle upward to promote venous return and reduce lower-limb edema.

02

Clinical Compression Classes

Available from 8–15 mmHg (light) through 40–50 mmHg (severe) to match clinical severity.

03

Comfortable Materials

Breathable fabrics with toe options, silicone bands, and moisture-wicking yarns for daily wear.

04

Insurance Coverage

Many medical-grade garments qualify for HSA/FSA and Medicare with prescription.

Clinical Use / Compression Therapy

How clinicians
use this product.

Graduated compression stockings, anti-embolism hosiery, and lymphedema garments for venous return, DVT prophylaxis, and chronic edema management.

Indications

Clinical use cases.

  • DVT prophylaxis in hospitalized and post-surgical patients
  • Chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins
  • Lymphedema management (primary and secondary)
  • Post-sclerotherapy and post-phlebectomy
  • Standing profession leg fatigue and pregnancy edema

Application Technique

Step by step.

01

/ 04

Measure the limb.

Measure ankle, calf, and thigh circumferences in the morning before swelling. Use the manufacturer's size chart — fit is critical.

02

/ 04

Don carefully.

Turn the stocking inside out to the heel. Position over the foot, then gradually unroll up the leg — do not pull from the top.

03

/ 04

Smooth out wrinkles.

Wrinkles concentrate pressure and can cause skin damage or tourniquet effect. Check for even distribution.

04

/ 04

Wear on schedule.

Apply in the morning before getting out of bed for best results. Remove at bedtime unless directed otherwise.

Contraindications & Cautions

When not to use.

  • Severe peripheral arterial disease (ABI < 0.5)
  • Acute skin infection or dermatitis on the limb
  • Uncontrolled congestive heart failure
  • Severe peripheral neuropathy without supervision

Typical Care Settings

Where it's used.

  • Vascular Clinic
  • Post-Surgical Unit
  • Home Health
  • Lymphedema Clinic
  • Physical Therapy

Clinical use information is provided for reference only. Always follow facility protocols, manufacturer instructions for use (IFU), and evidence-based practice guidelines. Consult the treating clinician before use.

Regulatory & Quality

FDA
Class I / II
Latex
Check product — both available
Sterility
Non-sterile
Biocompatibility
Skin-contact safe

Standards & Certifications

  • FDA Registered
  • Medicare HCPCS Eligible (A6530–A6549)

How It Compares

3M vs. the alternatives.

A spec-by-spec comparison with the most common alternatives in the compression therapy category. Clinical interchangeability varies — always verify with your care team or facility protocol.

Spec

This product

3M™ Bauer & Black™ Athletic Supporter, Medium, 1 Each

3M

Bauer & Black Athletic Supporter, Cotton, White, Reusable, X-Large, 1 Case of 48

3M

3M™ Bauer & Black™ Athletic Supporter, Medium, 1 Case of 48

Scott Specialties

Sport Aid™ Athletic Supporter, X-Large, 1 Each

Material—Cotton——
HCPCS CodeEligibleEligibleEligibleEligible

Comparison is provided for reference only. Brand names and trademarks belong to their respective owners. Specific SKUs may differ from category averages shown above.

Pairs With

Complete the set.

Products commonly used alongside this one. Bundle them into a single order.

About the Brand

3M.

Global innovation in medical science

3M Health Care combines material science with clinical insight to produce category-defining products across wound care, infection prevention, and respiratory protection.

Shop All 3MOur Partner Brands

FAQ / Compression Therapy

Frequently asked.

Answers to the questions clinical buyers and care teams ask most about this product category.

What compression level do I need?

Compression levels: 8–15 mmHg (mild, daily comfort), 15–20 mmHg (moderate, mild varicose veins), 20–30 mmHg (firm, chronic venous insufficiency, DVT prophylaxis), 30–40 mmHg (extra firm, severe varicosities, post-thrombotic), 40–50 mmHg (severe, advanced lymphedema). Always match to clinician recommendation.

What's the difference between anti-embolism and compression stockings?

Anti-embolism stockings (TEDs) provide 8–18 mmHg and are designed for bedridden hospital patients to prevent DVT. Graduated compression stockings provide 15–50 mmHg and are intended for ambulatory patients with venous insufficiency or lymphedema.

How long should I wear them each day?

Most graduated compression stockings are worn during waking hours and removed at night. Lymphedema patients may wear overnight under clinician supervision. Follow your clinical protocol.

Can I wash compression stockings?

Yes — hand wash or gentle machine wash in cold water with mild detergent. Air dry away from direct heat. Do not wring, bleach, or tumble dry. Most garments last 3–6 months with daily wear and proper care.

Keep Reading

More on compression therapy.

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