Definitive 2026 Clinical Measurement Guide

Definitive 2026 Clinical Measurement Guide for Medical-Grade Compression Stockings

Australian Regulatory Standards & TGA Compliance
In 2026, medical-grade compression stockings in Australia are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). To ensure clinical efficacy and patient safety, CSO adheres to the AS/NZS 2210 standards and the international RAL-GZ 387 quality mark.

Understanding Compression Classes
- Class 1 (18–21 mmHg): Indications for mild aching, tired legs, and pregnancy-related spider veins.
- Class 2 (23–32 mmHg): The clinical standard for moderate varicose veins, edema, and post-sclerotherapy recovery.
- Class 3 (34–46 mmHg): Intensive management for severe chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), DVT recovery, and active venous ulcers.
- Class 4 (49+ mmHg): Specialized containment for Stage III Lymphedema.

The Clinical Measurement Protocol (The 'Gold Standard')
Timing
Measurements MUST be taken first thing in the morning. Gravitational edema accumulates throughout the day; afternoon measurements will result in an oversized garment that fails to provide therapeutic pressure.

Anatomical Landmarks
1. Ankle (Point B): Measure at the narrowest point above the malleolus (ankle bone). This is the most critical measurement.
2. Calf (Point C): Measure at the widest point of the gastrocnemius muscle.
3. Length (Point D): For knee-highs, measure from the floor to two fingers below the knee bend.

Brand-Specific Calibration

SIGVARIS
Requires measurement in a standing position. For thigh-highs, ensure the measurement is taken at the widest part of the upper thigh, just below the gluteal fold.
JUZO
Focuses on 'Length Proportionality'. Juzo garments are available in 'Regular', 'Short', and 'Petite' for the same circumference to prevent bunching at the ankle.
JOBST
Emphasises durability. Measurement B1 (lower calf) is often requested for Jobst custom flat-knit garments to ensure an accurate gradient transition.
Bauerfeind
Requires 'Lymphological' measurement with firm tension for lymphedema patients to ensure proper containment of fibrotic tissue.

Condition-Specific Guidelines
Lymphedema: Requires flat-knit garments for Stage II and III to provide high working pressure.
Venous Insufficiency: CEAP classifications C1-C6 should guide your choice of Class 2 vs Class 3 compression.

Safety & Contraindications
CRITICAL: Patients with an Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) below 0.5 must NOT use compression therapy. A vascular assessment is mandatory for all Class 3 prescriptions.