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Compression stockings - Management
How do I ensure that the stocking fits the person correctly?

  • Measure the person's leg, so that the correct size of stocking can be determined from the manufacturers' sizing charts:
    • If stockings are to be worn on both legs, measure each leg.
    • Write the measurements on the prescription.
    • If these are not stated on the prescription, most pharmacists will carry out the measurements if the person can attend the pharmacy. If this is not possible, they will either ask the person or carer to do the measurements (if capable) or refer the person back to the prescriber.
  • The measurements that need to be taken vary depending on the manufacturer, but in general the following need to be obtained for below-knee stockings (taken with the person seated, and feet flat on the floor):
    • Around the ankle, at the narrowest point just above the ankle bone (malleoli).
    • Around the widest part of the calf (usually the mid-calf area).
    • From the heel to the tip of the longest toe (if a closed-toe stocking is required).
  • If a thigh-length stocking is prescribed, also measure around the widest part of the thigh and from the heel to the buttock fold while the person is standing.
  • If the person has a swollen leg, measurements should be taken first thing in the morning. This may require a visit by a community nurse.
  • Severely swollen legs may first require a period of compression bandaging.
  • Made-to-measure stockings may be required if the person has a deformity affecting the leg or if a correctly sized ready-made stocking cannot be obtained from leg measurements.

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