3 Tips For Finding the Right Compression Stockings (2024)

FAQs

3 Tips For Finding the Right Compression Stockings? ›

Before you pick a stocking, measure the length and girth of your ankle, calves, and leg if you're opting for thigh-high or waist-high leggings. For prescription-grade compression wear, trained staff at a medical supply store will most likely take your measurements and find you the right fit.

Before you pick a stocking, measure the length and girth of your ankle, calves, and leg if you're opting for thigh-high or waist-high leggings. For prescription-grade compression wear, trained staff at a medical supply store will most likely take your measurements and find you the right fit.

Step 1: Measure the circumference of the ankle at the narrowest part of the ankle, just above the ankle bone (Point A). Step 2: Measure the circumference of the calf at the widest part of the calf (Point B). Step 4: Use the 15-20 mmHg or the 20-30 mmHg sizing chart to determine your size.

Step 1: Choose The Compression Level

A good rule of thumb to follow is: 15-20 mmHg: Great for daily wear, travel, and sports. They help improve circulation without being too tight. 20-30 mmHg: Great for sports recovery, daily wear, medical recovery, and to manage mild symptoms of varicose and spider veins.

Taking care of your compression socks

You can wear your compression socks all day by putting them on when getting dressed in the morning, and take them off before bed (unless your doctor advises otherwise).

This can help to ensure that you get the right fit on the first try. However, signs that compression socks are too tight include: discomfort, red marks on the top of your leg where the band should rest, and swollen legs. Compression socks should fit like a second skin, and feel supportive.

Take the ankle measurement above the ankle bone at the narrowest part of the ankle. The calf length is measured from the floor near your heel to the start of the knee on the backside of your leg. For thigh-high compression stockings, take a thigh measurement at the widest part of your thigh.

Should I elevate my legs when wearing compression socks? Elevating your legs while wearing compression socks can help to reduce swelling in the legs, which can be particularly beneficial after surgery or for people with conditions such as varicose veins.

Below knee length ensures full coverage and support. Class 3 compression level is recommended for severe varicose veins, severe edema, and lymphedema.

The general rule for sizing is to choose your regular size and consult a size chart if available. If you're used to wearing compression clothing, size down for added benefits. If you're new to compression clothing, choose an in-between size or size up for added comfort.

How to choose stockings size? ›

You need to know your foot size and leg length as FF's have MO stretch to them. If they're too short they won't fit your foot properly. Too long a foot size and they will be going up the heel further than they should be. If you don't measure your leg length, you may end up with stockings either too long or too short.

The stockings use graduated pressure to keep blood from pooling. They are tightest at the ankle and gradually decrease in pressure up the leg. Stockings may extend to your knee or up to your thigh.

Compression stockings and elevation work together to reduce the venous pressure and increase the return of venous blood to the heart. You certainly cannot elevate your legs at all times. I tell patients to elevate when they can and stockings can be kept on with elevation.

The leg can be so edematous (swollen) that once the sock is on, it will squeeze fluid out of the tissue to above the sock. When the circumference of the leg covered by the sock is reduced, the squeeze becomes less and the remaining fluid in the leg remains.