Measuring for compression stockings at home takes about five minutes and a soft tape measure. Accurate measurements matter more than your usual clothing size, because graduated compression only works when the garment fits the shape of your leg. Too loose and the pressure is lost, too tight and it becomes uncomfortable enough that you stop wearing it.

Measure first thing in the morning, before you have been on your feet. Legs swell over the course of the day, and a stocking sized to an already-swollen leg will be too large once the swelling is managed. Sit with your foot flat on the floor and your knee at a right angle, keep the tape snug against the skin without compressing it, and record every measurement in both inches and centimeters if you can.

What to measure

• Ankle - the narrowest point, just above the ankle bone. This is the most important measurement, because graduated compression is calibrated from the ankle upward.
• Calf - the widest point of the calf, usually about two-thirds of the way up.
• Below-knee length - from the floor to the bend behind your knee, measured with your foot flat.
• Thigh - for thigh highs and pantyhose only. Measure the widest point of the thigh, roughly one to two inches below the buttock fold.
• Full leg length - for thigh highs and pantyhose only. From the floor to the same point on the thigh.

Choosing your style

Knee highs cover the calf and are the most commonly worn style, since most venous symptoms occur below the knee. Thigh highs extend over the thigh and are used when swelling or vein involvement continues above the knee. Pantyhose provide the same graduated compression with a waist-high body, which suits wearers who want even coverage or who find a thigh band uncomfortable.

Getting the size right

Every mediven, duomed, and REJUVA product page has its own size chart, because sizing differs by series, style, and length. Take your measurements first, then open the size chart on the product you are considering and match your ankle and calf figures to the size ranges shown. If your measurements fall into different sizes, for example a smaller ankle and a larger calf, the ankle measurement takes priority.

Petite and extended lengths exist for a reason. If your below-knee length falls short of the standard range, a petite length will sit correctly below the knee instead of bunching behind it. If a measurement sits at the very top of a size range, or between two sizes, a fitter or your prescribing clinician can confirm the right choice before you order.

Tips for an accurate measurement

• Measure both legs - they are rarely identical, and each leg should be sized on its own figures.
• Bare skin - measure directly against the leg, not over clothing or another stocking.
• Keep the tape level - an angled tape reads larger than the true circumference.
• Write it down - record your measurements so you can reorder or compare across series without measuring again.
• Re-measure periodically - leg shape changes with weight, activity, pregnancy, and treatment progress.

If you have been prescribed compression by a clinician, bring your measurements to them or to a certified fitter before ordering. A garment that fits correctly is one you will actually wear, and consistent wear is what makes compression therapy work.