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Compression Size Guide

women choosing compression socks

Compression therapy refers to the use of specialized garments for the management of chronic venous disease and lymphedema. Some recent studies suggest wearing compression socks during the day could help people with obstructive sleep apnea sleep better at night. 

The compression pressure reduces swelling by moving excess fluid back into the capillaries which helps prevent the fluid from leaking. The garments also reduce the ability of superficial veins from expanding and overfilling with blood.

Sleeves, socks, and hosiery meet your specific needs. However, in order to relieve cramps and prevent swelling it’s crucial that you choose the right size.

Compression Therapy Guide

 
8-15 mmHg* [Mild Compression]15-20 mmHg* [Moderate Compression]20-30 mmHg* [Firm Compression]30-40 mmHg* [Extra Firm Compression]
Provides relief and minimizes tired and achy legs.For the prevention and relief of minor to moderate varicose and spider veins.Helps prevent and relieve moderate to severe varicose veins (also during pregnancy).Helps prevent and relieve severe varicose veins.
Prevents fatigued legs from long periods of sitting or standing.Helps relieve tired, aching legs, and minor swelling of feet, ankles, and legs.For post-surgical and post-sclerotherapy treatment to help prevent the reappearance of varicose and spider veins.Used in the treatment of severe edema and lymphedema.
Helps relieve minor swelling of feet, ankles, and legs.During pregnancy, helps prevent varicose veins and spider veins.Helps in treatment of moderate to severe edema or lymphatic edema.Used in post-surgical and post-sclerotherapy treatment to help prevent the reappearance of varicose and spider veins.
During pregnancy, helps prevent the formation of varicose and spider veins.Helps prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), also known as economy class syndrome.Helps with the management of active ulcers and manifestations of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS).Helps reduce symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension and Postural Hypotension.
Helps maintain healthy, energized legs.Used in post-sclerotherapy treatment to help prevent the reappearance of varicose veins and spider veins.Helps relieve superficial thrombophlebitis.For the management of Venous Ulcers and manifestations of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS).
Ideal compression level used for those traveling long distances.Helps prevent orthostatic hypotension (sudden fall in blood pressure when standing).Prevents deep vein thrombosis (DVT), also known as economy class syndrome.
Helps prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), also known as economy class syndrome.

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How To Measure Your Legs For Compression Socks

Compression socks are often available in sizes small, medium, and large, However, their sizes are not universal. It’s important to reference the sizing chart for the brand you’re considering to measure your legs correctly. One manufacturer’s medium might be another’s large.

When it comes to the amount of pressure you need, refer to your doctor’s advice. The amount of compression is measured in mmHg (millimeters of mercury.) Medical compression socks are generally 20 mmHg and above.

What You’ll Need

  • A soft tape measurer.
  • A place to sit.
  • Room to sit and stand.

How To Measure Your Legs For Knee-High Compression Stockings:

  1. Get started first thing in the morning, before your legs have starting to swell. Otherwise, you may choose a size that’s too large.
    • Note: If you or your doctor can’t measure your legs until later than the day, they can be elevated, bandaged, or pumped to reduce swelling.
  1. Ankle Measurement
    • Measure the circumference of your ankle by placing the measuring tape at the narrowest part of the ankle and wrapping it around to make a circle. This should always be your first measurement.
  1. Calf Measurement
    • Find the widest part of your calf and measure the circumference.
  1. Calf Length
    • Sit on a chair with your legs at a 90-degree angle. Measure the distance fro the bend in your knee to the floor.

How To Measure Your Legs For Thigh-High Compression Stockings:

  1. Ankle Measurement
    • Measure the circumference of your ankle by placing the measuring tape at the narrowest part of the ankle and wrapping it around to make a circle. This should always be your first measurement.
  1. Calf Measurement
    • Find the widest part of your calf and measure the circumference.
  1. Thigh Measurement
    • Find the widest part of your thigh, right under your buttocks and measure the circumference.
  1. Leg Length
    • Measure the distance from your buttocks to the floor.

How To Measure For Pantyhose Compression

  1. Ankle Measurement
    • Measure the circumference of your ankle by placing the measuring tape at the narrowest part of the ankle and wrapping it around to make a circle. This should always be your first measurement.
  1. Calf Measurement
    • Find the widest part of your calf and measure the circumference.
  1. Thigh Measurement
    • Find the widest part of your thigh, right under your buttocks and measure the circumference.
  1. Leg Length
    • Measure the distance from your buttocks to the floor.

How To Measure Your Arm For A Compression Arm Sleeve

  1. Wrist Measurement 
    • Measure the circumference of the narrowest part of your wrist.
  1. Elbow Measurement 
    • Measure your elbow circumference at your elbow crease.
  1. Axilla Measurement
    • Measure the circumference of your axilla (your underarm), which is just below your armpit.

How To Measure Your Hand For A Compression Gauntlet Or Glove

  1. Palm Measurement
    • Measure the circumference of the widest part of your hand while your thumb is extended.
  1. Wrist Measurement 
    • Measure the circumference of the narrowest part of your wrist.

Information provided on the Aeroflow Health blog is not intended as a substitute to medical advice or care. Aeroflow Health recommends consulting a doctor if you are experiencing medical issues or concerns.

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