Size Available

Compression Stockings – Size Does Matter
Correct sizing of your compression stockings is perhaps the most important part of compression stocking therapy for the treatment of varicose veins. Without a proper fit the stockings will not perform properly and in some cases may actually harm you. Too large, they will not provide the compression needed and will fall down or sag. Too small, they will squeeze your legs too much and will feel very uncomfortable like muscle cramps. Too small and they are very difficult to put on. So how can you assure a proper compression stocking fit? Below we will provide some insight that will help you choose the correct size.
First a few words about where you buy your compression stockings. Compression stockings are available in most pharmacies or healthcare product stores. They are also widely available online at usually a much cheaper price. Regardless of where you buy make sure you know what the return policy is. Be cautious when buying from a store or website that does not display a very clear and concise written return policy. Occasionally the only way to find a proper fitting stocking is trial and error. So, make sure they can be returned and exchanged for a different size. A stocking that does not fit properly and cannot be exchanged does no good at all.
The first step in choosing the correct size is properly measuring the leg. Most compression stocking websites will have illustrated instructions on the proper way to measure. Each stocking style will have a unique size chart for you to follow. Following these instructions and size chart will assure a proper fit in the perfect person. However, we know none of us are perfect. We come in different sizes, shapes and body proportions that may not necessarily fall within the ranges of the stocking sizes. Here are few tips for measuring your legs:
- Always measure your legs first thing in the morning.
- Always measure both legs.
- Use a correct measuring device. If you do not have a flexible tailor’s tape measure, use a ribbon or other flexible material to wrap around your leg and then lay it out on a rigid ruler.
- Make precise measurements. When wrapping your flexible measuring device around your leg wrap it snug against the skin but not too snug that it indents the skin.
Now that you have the proper precise leg measurements, it’s time to compare them to the size chart. Again, remember every stocking will have a unique size chart. Size charts are not interchangeable between compression stocking brands or styles. Compare your measurements with the chart and if your measurements fall within the range of a single size you are finished and can order that size. However frequently all the sizes do not fall within one size. For example ankle and calf measurements call for a medium size but the thigh measurements call for a large size. This is where the trial and error may come into play.
When leg measurements do not fall within a single size range there are a couple tips you can use. The first tip is to look at other compression stocking brand and styles. Some brands and style of stockings are available in only four sizes while others are available in seven sizes. The less sizes available have a greater range of measurements therefore you may be able to fit all your measurements into one size range. Another tip is to look at different styles. For example, if your ankle and calf fit within one size range but your thigh is extremely outside the size range you may want to consider a knee high compression stocking as opposed to a thigh high stockings. If your leg measurements fall within two sizes but are very close try the smaller size stockings and see how they fit.
I hope this will help you choose the proper size when purchasing compression stockings. Sizing is critical and a proper fit is essential. If you’re still not sure what size is correct call the store or website support and talk with a stocking expert. They will help you through the process.
Jeffrey Ware
About the Author
Jeffrey Ware
Certified Surgical Assistant, Author, Educator and Consultant.
91. How to Determine Your Position Size in the Forex Market
|
|
Presto 07046 Tilt ‘n Drain Big Griddle Cool-Touch Electric Griddle $59.99 Description:PRESTO 07046 Tilt’nDrain Big Griddle Electric GriddleThe super-sized Presto BigGriddle Cool Touch griddle cooks up to 50% more food than other jumbo griddles. The exclusive Tilt ‘n Drain feature makes it easy to adjust the grilling surface from level to a tilted draining surface for meats.Features:Cooks up to 50% more food than other jumbo griddlesExclusive Tilt ‘n Drain allows you to … |
|
|
Thermos Nissan JMW500P6 16-Ounce Stainless-Steel Backpack Bottle, Silver $20.84 Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Commuter Backpack Bottle TherMax double wall vacuum insulation locks in temperature to preserve flavor and freshness. Unbreakable 18/8 stainless steel interior and exterior withstand the demands of everyday use. Drink lid opens with push button ease and locks closed for leak-proof travel. Light and pact design for effortless transport and storage. Bottle stays cool… |
|
|
Black & Decker EHC650 2-Speed Food Chopper with 3-Cup Bowl $18.78 This electric food chopper accomplishes a food processor’s principal function of chopping and mincing without having to haul out the big machine. It’s just 8 inches high and 4-3/4 inches in diameter, and its 3-cup bowl is ample for many chores in a family household and most chores in a one or two-person household. At 150 watts, the motor is powerful enough to chop or mince vegetables, fruits, herb… |
|
|
Antennas Direct DB8 Multidirectional HDTV Antenna $64.59 This powerful multidirectional HDTV antenna lets you receive over-the-air high-definition signals and features up to a 15.8dB gain for improved reception…. |
|
|
There Is A Hell Believe Me I’ve Seen It. There Is A Heaven Lets Keep It A Secret. (Limited Deluxe Edition Box Set with T-Shirt) Bring Me The Horizon became a worldwide phenomenon thanks to their success on MySpace and heavy touring that recently included stealing Warped Tour 2010 with their frenzied main stage performance. The UK based band take the unique sound from their last album Suicide Season and push it further in every single way imaginable. This special edition box set includes the new CD and a high-quality band t… |
|
|
PRINCESSA $148.35 Uniquely design for your home in mind. Contemporary style and sleekness, Great for over bathroom sink, stunning for entry ways. Finish: Silver w/Gold highlights Mirror Size: 30″ x 40″ Frame OD: 45″ x 55″ FREE SHIPPING! Products not available outside the Continental of the United States… |
|
|
Belkin Pivot-Plug Surge Protectors $49.99 Features a rotating outlet design that gives you much more convenience and flexibility in placing your plugged-in devices than traditional products Belkin Pivot Plug Surge Protectors provide premium power protection for your professional workstations and connected devices. It’s rotating outlet design gives you much more convenience and flexibility in placing your plugged-in devices than traditiona… |
|
|
Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboutit Mini Bicycle U-Lock (3.25 x 6-Inch) $109.00 Big city cyclists need big city protection, as would-be thieves aren’t intimidated by just any bicycle lock. Enter the Kryptonite New York Fahgettaboutit U-lock, which features an 18mm hardened Max-Performance steel shackle designed to resist bolt cutters and leverage attacks. Ideal for anyone who lives in moderately high crime areas, the New York Fahgettaboutit boasts a maximum 12 ranking on the … |
|
|
InSinkErator CRD-00 Power Cord Kit $4.50 IN-SINK-ERATOR POWER CORD *Fits most garbage disposers *Original in-sink-aerator replacement part *16 gauge wire *1- Romex connector, 1- 3′ wire grounded plug and cord, 2- wire nuts… |
|
|
Magnum, P.I. – The Complete First Season $10.47 All 22 episodes from the series’s first season–including the two-part “Please Don’t Eat the Snow in Hawaii,” “Never Again…Never Again,” “The Ugliest Dog in Hawaii,” “The Black Orchid,” and “Beauty Knows No Pain”–are included in a four-disc set. 18 1/2 hrs. total. Standard; Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo; Subtitles: Spanish, French. **22 episodes on 4 discs. 18 1/2 hrs.**… |