We recently received a request from Chris, a subscriber, asking if compression socks would help him at work.
Chris is an outdoor construction worker who is on his feet for about 10 hours a day. His main concern was that he couldn’t find a guide or decide how to size compression socksto buy what he needed.
First of all you can thank Chris for asking us to create this (although it should have been done a long time ago).
Secondly, one of the main reasons that this website exists as a useful resource is because of you the audience. So when we got a request from Chris, we were happy to oblige.
Lets get to it…
Although this guide will give you a basic overview, it is not considered medical advice. It is always recommended that you speak with your doctor for issues related to your legs (or other body parts).
It might be easy to think that shopping for a pair of compression socks, hosiery or other compression gear, would be a simple process right? Unfortunately this is not the case because there are different types and uses for which they can be worn. This guide will attempt to remove some of the confusion.
What Level of Compression Socks Do You Need?
Graduated compression socks are measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and there are 5 levels of compression. A lower number indicates less compression while a higher number signifies increased compression. Here is a table to break it down for you:
| Compression Level (mmHg) | Usage |
|---|
| 8-15 mmHg: Mild Compression | o The lowest level of compression
o May minimize and relieve the soreness in tired & aching legs
o May help to reduce minimal swelling in feet, ankles and legs
o May be suitable for short trips, stationary/desk workers, mild relief |
| 15-20 mmHg: Moderate Compression | o Offers mild level compression
o 1 of 2 most common levels of compression used by people
o May often be recommended to help relieve swollen ankles during pregnancy
o Potentially useful for minimizing the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
o May provide relief and minimize the pain resulting from average varicose/spider veins
o If standing or sitting for extensive periods of time, they may offer relieve by encouraging blood circulation in the legs |
| 20-30 mmHg: Firm Compression | o Offers a firm amount of compression
o The second most commonly used level of compression
o May relieve moderate to severe varicose/spider veins
o Often suggested for individuals dealing with edema and abnormal swelling
o For long flights or hours spent traveling in one position, it may prevent deep vein thrombosis
o May help to minimize the sudden drop in leg blood pressure from prolonged standing and inactivity
o May be used for post surgery patients |
| 30-40 mmHg: Extra Firm Compression | o Offers an overly firm level of compression
o Often used while under direct medical supervision
o Helps to relieve lymphedema, edema and severe varicose/spider veins
o May offer relief from Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)
o If you suffer from Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) or thrombosis, a doctor may suggest this level of compression for relief
o May be used for post surgery patients |
| 40-50 mmHg: Extreme Compression | o The most extreme level of compression
o Typically prescribed by a doctor for severe cases of venous insufficiencies
o Individuals at this level tend to lack regular mobility of legs or are bedridden
o May be used for post surgery patients |
Now that you know the different levels of compression the next question you need to ask is:
What Size Compression Socks Do You Need To Buy?
For you to determine this you are going to need to do two things: measure your leg and secondly, determine where the pain point is. Knowing the pain point can help you decide if you need socks, sleeves, stockings or tights.
Helpful Tip: If you have swollen legs, take your measurements in the morning when there is minimal swelling.
Use this visual guide and video for taking your measurements:
Courtesy OfKnit Rite & TheraFirm
It’s also worth remembering that compression gear can vary in size across brands. So having an accurate record of your measurements will help you in choosing the best size when you decide to buy.
If you happen to fall between sizes, you can try the lower size that is closest to you rather than going up in size. The benefits and comfort level will be enhanced if you are wearing the correct size or a size close to it.
Ultimately, you can improve certain areas of your life by controlling things such as your posture, exercise, buying proper clothes and footwear, and wearing the correct graduated compression socks.
Additional Tips
If you want a list of various brands check out our reviews here. Is there is a specific brand that we missed or you would like to add/see a sizing chart for some compression socks or gear? Let us know and we’ll happy to add it if it can bebeneficial to the community.
FAQs
Step 1: Measure the circumference of the ankle at the narrowest part of the ankle, just above the ankle bone (Point A). Step 2: Measure the circumference of the calf at the widest part of the calf (Point B). Step 4: Use the 15-20 mmHg or the 20-30 mmHg sizing chart to determine your size.
How to know what size compression socks to get? ›
Step 1: Measure the circumference of the ankle at the narrowest part of the ankle, just above the ankle bone (Point A). Step 2: Measure the circumference of the calf at the widest part of the calf (Point B). Step 4: Use the 15-20 mmHg or the 20-30 mmHg sizing chart to determine your size.
Should you size up or down in compression socks? ›
You could size up or down, depending how shoes normally fit you. Remember to select your sock based on your calf measurement, as well. In the event that you still can't decide between sizes, opt for the smallest size that fits your measurements.
What does 20 30 mean in compression socks? ›
Millimeters of mercury is a measurement of pressure, which is also used in locating one's Blood Pressure. 10-20mmHg= Good for people who stand a lot during work or have swelling or there good to wear during airplane flights. 20-30mmHg= Moderate swelling & this amount really helps with varicose veins from forming.
How to know if compression socks are tight enough? ›
They should not be too tight as to feel uncomfortable after a while, but not so loose that they feel like any other pair of socks. How tight is subjective, but if you follow the size guide you will get a compressive fit that will end up helping your legs and feet feel much better at the end of the day.
How to choose stockings size? ›
You need to know your foot size and leg length as FF's have MO stretch to them. If they're too short they won't fit your foot properly. Too long a foot size and they will be going up the heel further than they should be. If you don't measure your leg length, you may end up with stockings either too long or too short.
What happens if you wear the wrong size compression socks? ›
Itchiness and irritation — Redness and temporary dents in your skin at the edge of the sock's fabric are a common side effect of improperly-fitted compression socks.
What is the alternative to compression socks? ›
Luckily, there is a great alternative to compression hosiery - compression wraps! Compression wraps get wrapped around the leg and secured with Velcro straps, whereas conventional compression socks need to be pulled on and up. Wraps can be easily adjusted and are also great for those who need 24-hour compression.
Are footless compression socks effective? ›
No, "footless" compression stockings are not as effective. Full-coverage stockings work best because they provide total compression. If compression is only from the ankle up, your feet could swell.
Is there a downside to wearing compression socks? ›
Compression stockings can have some side effects, especially if you're not wearing them correctly or you're wearing the wrong size. The most common side effects include: Skin irritation, such as itchiness or feeling cold or warm. Redness.
Step 1: Choose The Compression Level
A good rule of thumb to follow is: 15-20 mmHg: Great for daily wear, travel, and sports. They help improve circulation without being too tight. 20-30 mmHg: Great for sports recovery, daily wear, medical recovery, and to manage mild symptoms of varicose and spider veins.
Where does the fluid go when wearing compression stockings? ›
The leg can be so edematous (swollen) that once the sock is on, it will squeeze fluid out of the tissue to above the sock. When the circumference of the leg covered by the sock is reduced, the squeeze becomes less and the remaining fluid in the leg remains.
How do I know what size compression socks I need? ›
Steps
- Measure the size 1cm below the knee fold. Tip: put two fingers in the knee fold, below is the first measuring point.
- Measure the thickest size of the calf.
- Measure the narrowest size of the ankle.
- Measure the size of the heel-rubbing line.
- Measure the length of the leg to 1cm below the knee fold. ...
- Give up your shoe size.
Compression Stocking Don'ts
- Don't Apply Moisturizers Prior To Wearing. Creams, lotions and oils can damage the fabric. ...
- Don't Wear Them At Night. ...
- Don't Place Them In The Dryer Or Near A Heat Source. ...
- Don't Alter The Stocking. ...
- Don't Wear The Same Pair Indefinitely.
Never assume that what you need is a “plus” or “extra wide” size unless you have done your measurements and they don't fit on the chart above. For a snug fit that relieves your symptoms, it's important to buy compression socks and compression stockings that are the right size, not too large, and not too small.
What strength of compression socks do I need? ›
A good rule of thumb to follow is: 15-20 mmHg: Great for daily wear, travel, and sports. They help improve circulation without being too tight. 20-30 mmHg: Great for sports recovery, daily wear, medical recovery, and to manage mild symptoms of varicose and spider veins.
Do you need a prescription for 20/30 compression socks? ›
Medical Grade 20 mmHg to 30 mmHg and 30 mmHg to 40 mmHg
Compression stockings of 20 mmHg or higher need to be prescribed by a physician. They are used for the treatment of various medical conditions, and should be used under the supervision of a doctor.
What does 15/20 mmHg mean for compression socks? ›
15-20 mmHg (medium)
This is most common entry level of compression socks, and most doctors will recommend that you start with 15-20 mmHg if you've never worn compression socks before. These socks also help relieve tired, aching legs and prevent or reduce lower body swelling.
What do the numbers mean when buying compression socks? ›
Support compression stockings are made available in multiple compression support levels. Most commonly compression support stockings come in mild (8-15 mmHg), Medium (15-20 mmHg), Firm (20-30 mmHg), X-Firm (30-40 mmHg) gradient compression levels.
