First, what tools do you need?
To measure for compression socks, you will need two simple tools:
- A Flexible Measuring Tape: This will allow you to accurately measure the circumference of different parts of your leg. Make sure the tape is flexible to contour to your leg's shape for precise measurements. Ensure that the measuring tape is snug but not tight around your leg to get the most accurate measurements.
- A Notepad and Pen: To record your measurements as you go. This helps in keeping track and comparing with size charts when selecting your compression socks. We suggest recording the measurements in both centimeters and inches as different brands may use one or the other unit of measure.
- Optional: a friend or family member who can assist you in taking the measurements.
Step 1: start here, for all styles (knee high, thigh high, waist high)
Take these two measurements:
- Your Height
- Your ankle circumference at the narrowest portion of the ankle (just above the ankle bone).
Height
Ankle Circumference
Step 2: take additional measurements based on the style:
For Knee High socks and stockings also take these measurements
Measurements from Step 1 AND
+ Your calf circumference at the widest portion of the calf
+ The length from back of your knee crease to the floor
Calf Circumference
Knee Crease to Floor
For Thigh High socks and stockings also take these measurements
Measurements from Step 1 AND
+ Your thigh circumference - just below the gluteal fold (bum crease)
+ The length from your gluteal fold (bum crease) to the floor
Thigh Circumference
Bum to Floor
For Waist High stockings or pantyhose also take these measurements
Measurements from Step 1 AND
+ Waist Circumference
+ Hip Circumference (Widest point of your hips)
+ Your thigh circumference - just below the gluteal fold (bum crease)
+ The length from your gluteal fold (bum crease) to the floor
Waist Circumference
Hip Circumference
Thigh Circumference
Bum to Floor
A few important notes:
- Measurements for compression stockings are best to be taken first thing in the morning.
- If you have had compression socks in the past and you would like us to use your previous measurements, please provide us with a photo of the SKU. (This can be found on the photo of the box).
- Applying compression socks and stockings are best done with the assistance of donning aids.
- If you haven't ordered your compression socks yet you can browse our entire collection here.
- If you've already ordered then go ahead and send us your measurements at orders@orthomed.ca or respond to the order confirmation that we sent you already.
Please let us know if you have any questions, our team is always available to help!
