Tag: compression socks

How to Measure for Compression Stockings

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by Michelle Stepp

The right size for compression stockings is essential for maximum comfort and support. This guide will walk you through how to measure for compression stockings accurately to ensure you get the perfect fit.

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Why Correct Measurement for Compression Stockings Matters

Compression stockings provide significant benefits when they are the correct size. The right fit guarantees comfort and boosts these specialized garments’ health benefits. Whether you need them for medical reasons or additional support, knowing how to measure for compression socks is the first step towards finding the perfect pair.

Avoid common measurement errors such as standing on uneven surfaces or carpets, pulling the tape measure too tight, or measuring over clothing. These mistakes can affect the accuracy of your measurements and lead to an improper fit.

How to Measure for Compression Stockings

Knee-High Open/Closed Toe

  1. Measure the ankle circumference above the ankle bone at the narrowest part to determine if it is Small, Medium, Large, or X-large on the Sizing Chart below.
  2. Measure the calf circumference at the fullest part.
  3. For the length, measure from the outside of the leg from the floor to the fibular head.

Thigh-High/Pantyhose Open/Closed Toe

  1. Measure the ankle circumference above the ankle bone at the narrowest part.
  2. Measure the calf circumference at the fullest part.
  3. Measure the thigh circumference at the widest part.
  4. Measure the length from the floor to the gluteal fold.
  5. Measure the hip circumference at the widest part of the hips.

Get the full measurement instructions here: Sigvaris How to Measure Guide.

Five Tips for Taking Measurements

  1. Measurements should always be taken right after waking, when there is typically minimal swelling.
  2. Take measurements without clothing.
  3. Keep your feet flat on the floor and take the length measurements from the ground up.
  4. The tape measure should be snug around the leg but not constricting.
  5. Take all knee-high and thigh-high/pantyhose measurements if you purchase various styles.

How to Choose the Right Compression Stockings

Several factors influence the choice of compression stockings. These include the compression level, the stocking type, and your specific needs.

Compression Level

This dictates the pressure exerted on your legs, which can be determined using your ankle, calf, and thigh measurements.

black and beige styles of compression stockings on men and women's legsTypes of Compression Stockings

These include knee-high, thigh-high, and pantyhose. Knee-high stockings are ideal for individuals experiencing discomfort in the lower leg, while thigh-high stockings provide compression for the entire leg. Pantyhose offer full leg and waist coverage.

Specific Needs

Diabetic compression stockings apply gentle pressure and promote blood circulation, making them ideal for individuals with diabetes. On the other hand, graduated compression stockings, which help prevent blood pooling and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, are recommended for those leading sedentary lifestyles or traveling frequently.

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At Personally Delivered, we provide various compression stockings to meet your needs. Our team of experts is available to help you figure out how to measure for compression stockings based on your measurements, compression level requirements, and specific needs. Find the perfect pair of compression stockings for you from our selection today.

Compression Stockings for Men and Women

JOBST Relief Knee High Compression Stockings, Closed Toe, Beige

Beige knee high closed toe compression stockings

T.E.D. Short Thigh High Stockings

T.E.D. thigh high short open toe compression stockings

JOBST Compression Pantyhose

Jobst full-length compression pantyhose in tan

McKesson Knee High Open Toe Compression Stockings

McKesson Knee High Anti Embolism Stockings

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Compression Stockings: How to Choose and Use

Posted on
by Michelle Stepp

Compression stockings are a popular and effective garment that can help improve circulation and reduce swelling in the legs. These stockings are commonly recommended for people with conditions such as varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and lymphedema. But did you know that they can also play a role in managing high blood pressure? In this blog, we will discuss what compression stockings are, the benefits of these stockings for blood pressure management, and how to choose the right ones for your needs. These products are worth considering whether you are dealing with high blood pressure or simply looking for ways to improve your leg health.

What are vascular compression stockings?

Vascular compression stockings, also called anti-embolism stockings and compression socks, are a type of elastic hosiery designed to provide graduated compression to the legs. Pressure is most significant at the ankle and gradually decreases up the leg as it helps promote blood flow back up to the heart. These stockings are excellent for people with conditions that affect circulation, such as varicose veins, venous insufficiency, DVT, or lymphedema. Compression socks are available in different compression levels, materials, colors, and lengths, so choosing the right ones for your needs is essential. Depending on your condition and doctor’s recommendations, they can be worn daily.

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What are the benefits of compression socks for managing blood pressure?

Vascular compression stockings can be a simple and effective way to keep blood flowing to and from the heart, helping manage blood pressure.

Here are some of those ways:

Improves circulation

Anti-embolism stockings help promote blood flow in the legs, reducing the workload on the heart and helping lower blood pressure.

Reduces risk of blood clots and DVT

These stockings can help prevent blood clots due to the pressure that tightens the veins in the legs and helps prevent blood from pooling. This is especially good for those that travel by plane and vehicle. Legs can swell and become uncomfortable on a flight or when riding in a car for an extended period. Anti-embolism stockings can help increase circulation and make traveling more comfortable.

Vascular compression stockings help promote blood flow in the legs, reducing the workload on the heart and helping lower blood pressure.

Lowers systolic blood pressure

Studies have shown that wearing anti-embolism stockings can help to decrease systolic blood pressure in individuals with hypertension.

Improves blood pressure response to exercise

According to the National Library of Medicine, wearing compression socks and stockings during physical activity can improve blood pressure response to exercise in those with hypertension.

Simple and non-invasive

Anti-embolism stockings are non-invasive and easy to use for managing blood pressure, which can be used in combination with other lifestyle modifications and medical treatments that a doctor may recommend.

How do I choose the right compression stockings?

Choosing the right stockings is essential to ensure they fit correctly and provide the intended benefits, such as improved circulation and blood pressure management.

Here are some tips on how to choose the right anti-embolism stockings:

Get a professional fitting

Getting a proper fitting for your stockings is essential to ensure they fit correctly. A healthcare professional can help you determine the correct size and compression level.

Choose the right compression level

Compression socks and stockings come in different compression levels, ranging from mild to extra firm. The appropriate compression level will depend on your condition and the doctor’s recommendations. Some compression levels are high enough that they require a prescription from a medical professional.

Choosing the right compression stockings is essential to ensure they fit correctly and provide the intended benefits

Consider the material

Compression socks are available in various materials, including nylon, spandex, and cotton. Consider your skin sensitivity and comfort when choosing the material.

Choose the right style

Anti-embolism stockings are available in different styles, including knee-high, thigh-high, and pantyhose. Choose the style that works best for your condition and lifestyle.

Follow care instructions

Anti-embolism stockings must be washed and cared for properly to maintain their effectiveness. Follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure your stockings last as long as possible.

Where can I buy vascular compression socks?

Anti-embolism stockings can be purchased from various sources, including medical supply stores, pharmacies, and online retailers. At Personally Delivered, we offer a wide selection of anti-embolism stockings, with the ability to shop from the comfort of your home. We provide a range of compression levels, materials, and styles to fit your needs and preferences. Our knowledgeable customer service team can help you with any questions or concerns about choosing and using anti-embolism stockings.

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Best-Selling Vascular Compression Stockings

Cardinal T.E.D. Long Knee High Anti-Embolism Stockings

T.E.D. knee high open toe compression stockings or compression socks

Cardinal T.E.D. Long Thigh High Anti-Embolism Stockings

T.E.D. thigh high open toe compression stockings or compression socks

Cardinal T.E.D. Regular Knee High Anti-Embolism Stockings

T.E.D. knee high open toe compression stockings or compression socks

T.E.D. Knee High Anti-Embolism Stockings, Regular, Closed Toe

T.E.D. knee high regular closed toe compression stockings or compression socks

Disclaimer: Important Notice Regarding Medical Advice

The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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How Do Compression Stockings Help Varicose Veins

Posted on
by Michelle Stepp

Compression stockings or anti-embolism stockings are often recommended to treat poor blood flow in the legs, such as varicose veins. Varicose veins can be painful for some and can be treated with surgery, but compression socks may be an at-home option to address the issue effectively.

What are varicose veins?

Varicose veins are large swollen veins that typically appear dark purple or blue, lumpy or bumpy, and on the legs. Healthy veins allow the blood to flow smoothly down the legs and back up to the heart. Small valves that become weak or damaged prevent the blood from flowing freely back up to the heart, and it ends up pooling in the veins and causing them to enlarge.

Varicose veins are a product of venous insufficiency, a medical condition where there is improper functioning of the valves in the veins of the legs. According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, approximately 40% of the US population may be affected by venous insufficiency.

image of a person with varicose veins on their legs with what normal veins look like compared to what varicose veins look like

Causes of varicose veins

There are several reasons a person can develop varicose veins, although some get them for no specific reason. Some of the common causes for a person to develop varicose veins are:

  • Age – Veins lose elasticity as we get older.
  • Genetics – If immediate family members are affected, a person’s risk increases.
  • Gender – Women are more likely to be affected than men due to hormones.
  • Pregnancy – Blood quantity increases to support a developing baby putting extra strain on veins.
  • Occupation – A job that requires standing for long periods can prevent blood from flowing as easily.
  • Obesity – Being overweight puts pressure on the veins, making them work harder to send blood back to the heart.

What are compression stockings?

Compression stockings are hosiery made of elastic that deliver graduated amounts of pressure from the ankle up the leg, promoting the blood flow back up to the heart. They can help reduce the symptoms of painful varicose veins, promote better circulation, and slow the progression of vein disease. These stockings are tighter at the ankle than the calf and even less up the thigh for full-length stockings.

These stockings deliver varying levels of compression, and some are different.  Medical compression socks and stockings are needed to relieve varicose vein symptoms. These stockings and socks have strict medical and technical specifications that they are manufactured under.  The compression level is measured in millimeters of Mercury (mmHg), the same way blood pressure is measured.

The three primary levels of medical compression include:

  1. Mild compression – Supports healthy blood flow back to the heart and allows the legs to feel lighter.
  2. Moderate compression – Recommended for those with varicose vein symptoms.
  3. Firm compression – For more vein diseases more severe such as leg ulcers, lymphatic edema, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

How compression stockings can help varicose veins

T.E.D. Thigh High Short Compression Socks and Compression Stockings when asking yourself, how do compression stockings help varicose veins?So how do compression stockings help with vericose veins?

Compression socks and stockings can help promote better circulation and are available in various sizes, lengths, colors, and compression levels to suit different needs. They may temporarily reduce the pain, swelling, and skin damage of varicose veins but will not correct the underlying vein problem. Compression socks and stockings will help slow the deterioration of the vein and may help prevent new varicose veins from forming. However, the only way to make varicose veins go away is to have them surgically removed.

T.E.D. is a popular brand of compression stockings that offers knee-high and thigh-high stockings in closed-toe and open-toe options. T.E.D. anti-embolism stockings help promote blood flow velocity in the legs and are commonly used after surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots (DVT) forming.

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How to measure yourself for compression stockings

Selecting the right size and compression level of anti-embolism stockings is a large part of being comfortable. To ensure a proper fit, you will need to take some measurements. This handy guide makes taking measurements easier.

T.E.D. Compression Stockings measurement guide

Are there any risks of compression stockings?

There are usually no side effects from using anti-embolism stockings, but since they are tight, some may find them challenging to put on. And people with damaged nerves in the legs might not feel how tight the stockings are. The few risks of anti-embolism stockings include the following:

  • Discomfort – Improper sizing is more likely to cause problems.
  • Skin irritation – Some of the materials to manufacture stockings can irritate the skin.
  • Dents in the skin – Temporary dents can form where the elastic bands hold the stockings in place.

Compression socks and stockings should not be worn for too long. It is essential to treat them as you would any other clothing item by removing them daily and laundering them gently. Although compression socks may not cure varicose veins, they can help reduce pain and swelling and prevent the worsening of vein disease.

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Best-Selling Compression Socks and Stockings

T.E.D. Knee High Anti-Embolism Stockings, Regular Closed Toe

T.E.D. knee high regular closed toe compression socks for varicose veins

T.E.D. Thigh High Anti-Embolism Stockings, Short Closed Toe

T.E.D. thigh high short compression socks and compression stockings for varicose veins

T.E.D. Thigh High Anti-Embolism Stockings, Short Open Toe

T.E.D. thigh high open toe compression socks and compression stockings when asking yourself, how do compression stockings help varicose veins?

T.E.D. Knee High Anti-Embolism Stockings, Regular Open Toe

T.E.D. knee high open toe compression socks and compression stockings for varicose veins

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