How to Fit and Size Compression Stockings

Many people complain about compression stockings, such as their stockings are too tight, or they dig into their legs, or they are falling down.  The first step to successful compression therapy is to wear the correct size of compression hosiery.  You should not just grab a pair off the shelf at your local pharmacy.  Your legs need to be measured.  Your correct size is not based just on shoe size or the standard of small, medium and large. Compression stockings, such as Jobst, Sigvaris, Medi and Juzo have graduate compression, which mean the socks are tightest at the ankle and the compression of the stocking reduces as it goes up the leg.  This helps venous return of blood and reduces swelling.  Measuring Knee-high stockings require three separate measurements to get the proper size.  Using a tape measure, take the following measurements: 1)      the smallest part of the ankle right above the ankle bone; 2)      the largest part of the calf; and 3)      while in a seated position, with the knee at a 90 degree angle, measure from the heel to just below the back of the knee (down1-1/2” or the width of two fingers).  Both legs should be measured and it can be in either inches or centimeters. Too Tight So, when stockings are too tight, typically it is because of incorrect measurements (too small) at either the ankle or the calf or both.  When a sock cuts in to your legs, they are typically too long for your legs and tend to fold over behind the knee or gather at the ankle. Too Big When stockings are falling down, the measurement at the calf is too big.  Also compression stockings may sometimes fall down as the swelling goes down.  In this case, a new smaller size of stockings is needed. It is best to measure first thing in the morning before any swelling develops.  Also it is good to be remeasured from time to time in case your leg size has changed.  Compression stockings are used for tired/aching legs, edema, venous insufficiency, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), lymphedema and swelling due to pregnancy to name a few. Liberty Oxygen and Medical Equipment has certified fitters at all of our seven Minneapolis and St. Paul metro locations.  Our fitters can also assist in selecting style, fabric, and color.