Most people who need compression stockings do well in a knee-high. But if your swelling or veins go above the knee, a knee-high stops short of the problem. Here's how to tell which length is right for you.
The basic rule: cover the whole problem area
Compression only works where the garment touches. The stocking should start at the foot and go past the highest point of swelling or visible veins. If the top of the stocking stops in the middle of a swollen area, fluid can collect just above the band.
When a knee-high is enough
A knee-high is the most common choice, and it's usually the right place to start if:
Your swelling is in the feet, ankles or calves and stops below the knee
Your legs feel tired, achy or heavy after standing or sitting
You have spider veins or varicose veins only below the knee
You're wearing compression for travel or long days on your feet
You've had or are healing from a venous leg ulcer near the ankle
Knee-highs are also the easiest to put on, which matters. A garment you wear every day helps more than a longer one that stays in the drawer.
When you need a thigh-high
Choose a thigh-high when:
Swelling goes above the knee or into the thigh
You have varicose veins above the knee or on the inner thigh
Your provider ordered thigh-high compression after a vein procedure
Your knee-highs leave a deep groove or a ring of swelling just above the band
You have lymphedema or lipedema that involves the knee or thigh
Thigh-highs usually have a silicone band at the top to keep them from sliding down. If silicone bothers your skin, ask us about lace bands, a garter-style attachment or a skin-safe body adhesive.
When pantyhose or a waist-high style is better
Swelling reaches the upper thigh, hip or groin
A thigh-high band keeps rolling down or digs in, especially with fuller thighs
You're pregnant and have veins or swelling in the thighs
Both legs need full-length compression and one garment is easier than two
For men there are waist-high styles, and for one leg there are single-leg styles that attach at the waist.
Common problems we see
Knee-high bunching behind the knee: usually means the stocking is too long for your leg. A petite or shorter length usually fixes it. Don't fold the top down. That doubles the pressure in one spot.
Thigh-high rolling down: usually means the wrong thigh size or the wrong band. We can re-measure and try a different band or brand.
Swelling above a knee-high: a sign you may need a longer garment. Talk to your provider or call us.
Follow your prescription
If your doctor or therapist ordered a specific length, wear that length. Please don't switch to a shorter style because it's easier to put on without checking with them first. If putting on a longer garment is hard, ask us about donning aids. A donning frame or slippery sock can make a thigh-high much easier to get on.
Still not sure? We can help
Our certified fitters look at where your swelling is, measure both legs, and help you pick the length, compression level and top band that fit how you live. Measuring is best done first thing in the morning, before swelling builds up.
Book a fitting → or call 800-883-1549.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Ask your doctor or therapist which garment is right for you.
