If you have been struggling with the symptoms of a vein condition, things like achy, tired, and swollen legs...or if you've been diagnosed with vein reflux, chances are you'll need a pair of compression stockings at some point. Insurance often requires them and your treatment plan may likely include them, at least for a period of time. Proper fit ensures proper results. So to make sure you get the right size, our staff demonstrates how to measure for properly fitting stockings.
There are a variety of types of compression stockings: open-toe, closed-toe, knee-high and thigh-high. The compression strength is determined by your vascular surgeon. Compression stockings should be tightly snug, but not so tight as to cut off circulation or cause pain - that would completely defeat the purpose! Naturally, our trained office staff and nurses will help you get the correct stockings the first time, but in case you want to purchase your own at a pharmacy, here are tips on correct measurement followed by a short video demonstration showing you the proper measuring techniques.
Before you start, we suggest taking measurements in the morning when your swelling is minimal for a more accurate reading and measuring the leg that tends to swell the most. Also, if you don't have a flexible tape measure at home, you can use a piece of string to mark the appropriate length and then lay the string along a yardstick to record the actual measurement. It's important for any of these readings to be as accurate as possible, so we suggest having a partner assist you.
These 3 measurements are taken sitting down:
1. For the first measurement is the distance around your ankle, just above the ankle bone.
2. The second measurement is the width of the calf muscle at the widest part.
3. Lastly, the third and final length is a vertical measurement from the floor to one finger length below the bend in your knee.
Four measurements total - the first two measurements you'll take sitting down, and for the last two, you'll stand up:
1. For the first measurement is the distance around your ankle, just above the ankle bone.
2. The second measurement is the width of the calf muscle at the widest part.
3. Standing, the third measurement is the distance around your upper thigh, three-finger lengths below your buttocks.
4. The fourth and final measurement is the distance from the floor to a three-finger length distance below your buttocks.
Here's a Missouri Vein Care staff member demonstrating for you the proper technique:
For more helpful tips and information on compression stockings, download our free ebook "What's the Skinny on Compression Stockings" by clicking on the link below.