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1Measuring for Knee-High Compression Socks
2Measuring for Thigh-High Compression Socks
3Purchasing the Right Pair of Compression Socks
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Co-authored byVlad Gendelman, MDand Nihal Shetty
Last Updated: April 22, 2023References
Compression socks work by applying pressure on your legs in order to circulate blood back to your heart. They can help deal with the pain of varicose veins and reduce fluid build-up in your lower legs, which is why so many people choose to wear them. If you’re looking to purchase compression socks without a prescription, you’ll likely have to measure the proper size yourself. Most people wear graduated compression socks, which are available in two lengths. Knee-high socks only require a few measurements, with additional ones required for thigh-highs. We’ll guide you through all the measurements you’ll need to take and how you can get the pair of compression socks that are right for you.[1]
Method 1
Method 1 of 3:
Measuring for Knee-High Compression Socks
1
Measure your legs in the morning. During the day, your legs will naturally swell as gravity transports fluids into your legs. Remove all clothing from your lower body, or wear only a thin layer. Otherwise, your measurements will be inaccurate![2]
2
Measure your ankle. Using a tape measure, note down the circumference of your ankle at its narrowest point. You should be able to find this by wrapping the tape measure right above the ankle bone.[3]
- It’s especially important to get this measurement correct, since graduated compression socks apply the most pressure at the ankles. Pressure decreases as the sock goes further up the leg. If you accidentally mis-measure the circumference here, it could be very difficult to put your socks on.[4]
3
Measure the circumference of your calf. You should take this measurement at its widest point, which will likely be a few inches below your knee. Sit down, keeping your feet on the floor, and make a loop around your calf with the tape measure. With the tape measure parallel to the floor, note down the circumference of your calf where it looks widest.[5]
- Be sure not to wrap the tape measure diagonally over your calf—doing so will make your measurement larger than it should be.
4
Measure the length from your calf to your foot. Place the bottom of your heel at one end of the tape measure and record the distance between that point and the bend in the back of your knee.[6]
5
Use the 3 measurements you took to find the right size compression socks. Compression socks typically come in small, medium, and large sizes. Unfortunately, these sizes are not standardized, and one manufacturer's small may be another manufacturer's medium! You can compare the 3 measurements you've taken to the manufacturer's sizing chart, available online or on the back of the product's packaging, in order to find what size works best for you.[7]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:
Measuring for Thigh-High Compression Socks
1
Start by taking all the measurements required for knee-high compression socks. To be as comprehensive as possible with your measurements, you’ll need all the ones required for knee-high socks in addition to a few more.
- People choose between thigh-high socks and knee-high socks mainly on the basis of comfort. Every body is different, so it may require some experimentation to decide which option is right for you. Some doctors believe that thigh-high socks may be more comfortable for people with thicker calf muscles, which might account for their increasing popularity among athletes.[8]
2
Measure the widest part of your thigh. This will be located just below your buttocks. Wrap your tape measure around the top of your thigh, and make a note of its measurement.[9]
3
Measure the length of your leg. Place the bottom of your heel on one end of the tape measure. Then, measure the distance from there up to the bottom of your buttocks.[10]
4
Measure the widest part of your hips. This will likely be located at the middle of your buttocks. Wrap your tape measure around your hips, and note down the circumference. You may want to take a couple of measurements, so that you can pick the largest one.[11]
5
Measure your waist. You should measure your waist's circumference at its most narrow point, which should be right at your belly button. Use your tape measure to make a loop around your belly button, and write down its measurement.
6
Compare your measurements with a manufacturer's sizing chart. Check the manufacturer's website or the back of the product's packaging for this information. You may not need all of your measurements, depending on what manufacturer you purchase your socks from. But having all of them noted down will give you all the necessary information required in order to make your purchase.[12]
- Since compression socks come in small, medium, and large sizes, and since each manufacturer has their own definition of what those terms mean, you will need to check the sizing chart for every pair of socks you're interested in. Don't assume that your compression sock size will remain the same between different products![13]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:
Purchasing the Right Pair of Compression Socks
1
Decide what level of compression you need. Compression socks available without a prescription range from mild compression to extra firm compression. The pressure of compression socks is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).[14]
- Mild compression socks go from 15 to 20 mmHg, and are useful in the prevention and pain relief of varicose veins, and offer relief from aching or swollen legs.[15]
- Moderate compression socks range from 20 to 30 mmHg, and are used to treat moderate to severe varicose veins, lymphatic edema, ulcers and post thrombotic syndrome.[16]
- Extra firm compression (30-40 mmHg) is mainly for people suffering from post thrombotic syndrome and ulcers.[17]
2
Buy your compression socks online or at a medical supply store. Compression socks are available in a wide variety of colors, so you can pick ones that you like best.[18]
- Sizing for compression socks varies between manufacturers. Use the measurements you’ve taken to find the size that is right for you.
3
Remeasure yourself every 3 to 6 months. Your legs can change size over time, especially if you gain or lose weight. In any case, compression socks should be replaced in 6 months, as they lose their efficacy when stretched out over time. Consult your doctor if you experience any numbness or pain while using the socks.[19]
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About this article
Co-authored by:
Vlad Gendelman, MD
Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon
This article was co-authored by Vlad Gendelman, MD and by wikiHow staff writer, Nihal Shetty. Dr. Vlad Gendelman, MD is an Orthopaedic Surgery Specialist in Los Angeles, California. With over 15 years of experience, he specializes in general orthopaedic surgery, including orthopaedic trauma, sports injuries, and joint replacements. Dr. Gendelman holds a BS in Biology from the University of Southern California and received his Doctorate from the University of California at Irvine. He then completed his residency in Orthopedic Surgery at SUNY Downstate. Dr. Gendelman is board certified with the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery. He is a member of the Los Angeles County Medical Association, the California Medical Association, California Orthopaedic Association, and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery. Dr. Gendelman is a published author of multiple papers in the field of orthopaedic surgery. This article has been viewed 2,814 times.
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Co-authors: 5
Updated: April 22, 2023
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