Compression socks are one of the few socks that require measurements to get the correct size. Everyone’s body is different which means that it is important to measure the circumference and length of your leg to get accurate compression and the perfect fit. In previous blogs, we discussed plus sizing in compression socks and gave a list of the fan favorite plus size compression socks, stockings, and leggings. That leads us here to talking about petite compression garments.

You will need a petite size if your lower leg measures less than 16 inches from the bend of your knee to the floor. It is important to remember that different brands have different sizing. Correlate your measurements to the size chart of the brand and product you are looking at before ordering. When measuring for your compression garments, be sure to measure first thing in the morning before any swelling has the chance to occur. 

Remember that many compression socks are unisex, so you may see a photo of the opposite gender when shopping online. View a complete list on men's petite and women's petite. Ready to look at some of the best-selling petite size compression socks? Keep reading to learn more about our petite garments. 

Juzo Soft Knee High

Do you want a super soft compression sock? This knee high is made from extremely soft and elastic fibers. Juzo FiberSoft technology wraps every elastic fiber with soft protective threads, which leads to greater ease of application, increased durability, and the ultimate softness and comfort. This knee high has a silicone top-band that keeps the sock from slipping and rolling throughout the day. Choose from 6 colors, 5 sizes, 3 lengths, and 2 compression levels. Thigh high options are available in the FiberSoft!

Therafirm Core-Spun Short Support Socks

Looking for a casual and comfortable petite compression sock? Don't stress, we got you! Therafirm Core-Spun Short Support Socks are designed for those who are petite. Core-Spun socks feel like a soft, comfortable, everyday sock, but have the added benefits of compression. Enjoy these benefits when you’re lounging, running errands, or traveling. Shop from 5 sizes, 4 colors, and 4 compression levels.

Sigvaris 412 High Tech Knee High

Want to add some pizzazz to your sock drawer? This is the perfect pair to do so! Sigvaris 412 High Tech Knee Highs are made with high tech fibers for thermal control, odor control, and moisture management. With an Achilles tendon protector, vibrations will be reduced on vulnerable ligaments. There are also toe protector fabrics incorporated to protect your toes from blisters! Choose from 8 bright colors and 12 sizes.

DuoMed Advantage Compression Pantyhose

Looking for a petite size pantyhose that is comfortable? DuoMed Advantage Compression Pantyhose provide opaque coverage and support to treat symptoms of swelling, vein disease, and help to fight blood clots. With the soft, luxurious feel, DuoMed will keep you feeling comfortable and rejuvenated all day long! Shop from 3 colors, 10 sizes, 2 compression levels, and open or closed toe.

Jobst Relief Petite Thigh Highs

Do you feel more comfortable in thigh high compression socks? Jobst Relief Petite Thigh High socks are made for both men and women from smooth, breathable fabric. A silicone top band keeps the thigh highs comfortably in place all day. Choose from 2 colors, 4 sizes, 3 compression levels, and closed toe or open toe.

CircAid Juxta Fit Essentials Standard Lower Legging

In need of a petite compression wrap? CircAid offers two length options! This leg wrap is designed for lymphedema treatment. The Juxta-Lock Band System allows for easy application and adjustment to assure the proper compression. This garment has a SILVERtec lining that is anti-bacterial and anti-odor. Choose from 2 lengths and 8 sizes.

Feel confident and comfortable in compression garments by measuring to find your correct size. You can visit the petite section for men and women on our website. Interested in reading about our plus size garments? Check out "A Stocking for Every Body" blog. If you need help with sizing, please take a look at the size chart for the product you are looking at. You can also go to our size finder to get a list of the garments that will fit you according to your measurements. Lastly, do not hesitate to call our customer service experts. They are always here to help you with the common goal in mind of feeling good and looking good.

Resistance band training is fabulous for older adults. It's slow, controlled, and can improve flexibility, balance, coordination, and strength while protecting the joints. 

There is even evidence that resistance training can help with arthritis and joint pain - more reason to move with these gentle yet effective exercises. 

Other benefits for seniors of using resistance bands: 

• They are light and are therefore easy to carry 
• They can be used anywhere: in a park, at home, with no need for a gym 
• Often the exercises can be done in a seated position, therefore useful for those with limited mobility 

 If you don't have resistance bands yet, click here to learn more. 

Here are our top 5 resistance band exercises for seniors. Enjoy! 

Overhead arm raises 

These exercises will help you strengthen your arms and shoulders. You'll be able to reach high objects more efficiently, and you'll enjoy greater flexibility in your upper body. 

• Stand with your feet hip-distance apart, and wrap your resistance band under one foot. We'll start with the right foot. 
• Ensure the resistance band is securely underneath the heel of your foot so that it doesn't snap up during the exercise. 
• Hold the other end of your resistance band in your right hand. Bring your arm up so that your elbow is pointing towards the ceiling. Your hand should be just behind your neck. 
• Slowly straighten that arm above your head while keeping hold of the resistance band. Pause at the top and then bring the arm back down and repeat on the other side. 

Variation while seated:  

• Wrap one end of the resistance band around the leg of a desk or table or another stationary object.  
• Using one hand or both hands together, hold the other end of the band.  
• Raise your arms above your head. 
• Pause at the top. Slowly bring your arms back down.  
• Repeat as needed. 

Watch this video to help you through the steps. 

 Variation while standing:  

• Stand on the middle section of the resistance band with your feet hip-distance apart.  
• Hold one end of your resistance band in each hand.  
• Keeping your arms straight (but without locking your elbows), raise your arms until they reach shoulder height.  
• Pause at the top and bring them back down. 

Use this video to help you through the exercise. 

Bicep curls 

This exercise will help you carry groceries as well as small children.  

• Standing in the same position as Variation 2 of the above exercise, keep your elbows close to your sides as you raise your hands to do bicep curls.  
• Pause when at the top, then release back down.  
• Repeat.  

Here’s a Bicep Curl video.  

Sitting knee extensions 

This exercise strengthens your leg muscles as well as the tendons around your knees. You'll be able to tackle stairs with greater flexibility and strength. 

• Tie one end of the resistance band round the leg of your chair.  
• Tie the other around your ankle (just above the joint). 
• Straighten the leg with the band, moving slowly and without locking your knee when you get to the top.  
• Pause and then bring that leg back down again. 
• Repeat reps as needed, then do the same thing on the other side. 

Use this video to watch this exercise in action.

Seated hip

This is a great exercise to keep your hip joints flexible.  

• Sit on a chair with the resistance band looped around your left thigh, and the ends tucked firmly underneath the heel of your right foot. 
• While keeping your back straight and your legs bent, lift that left knee as high as possible. This is a small movement but a powerful one.  
• Pause when your knee is as high as it will go, then lower it slowly back down. 
• Repeat as needed, then do the same on the other side.

Watch how to do this exercise with a video.

Neck workout

This exercise is good for toning up your neck, which can get stiff. You can do this neck exercise either seated or standing. 

• Wrap your band round the back of your head (a bit like a reverse headband).  
• Hold both ends of the band in both hands, with your arms bent and your hands just above your head.  
• Your elbows should be shoulder-height, with your forearms together. 
• Very slowly, while holding tightly to the band, straighten your arms while keeping your elbows high. You'll feel the resistance in the back of your neck. Important: Make sure your chin is slightly tucked in and that your head is straight. Your gaze should be straight in front of you. 
• Pause when the band is at its tightest point, then gently bend your arms again.  
• Repeat. 

You can see how to do this neck work out at the 8:40 mark. 

To find out more 

For general guidelines on resistance exercises for seniors along with more exercises, check out this page. Happy exercising! 

Barbara Fernandez is a freelance health and lifestyle writer and voiceover artist. She writes about all aspects of health and fitness, wellness, and nutrition. 

First things first, comfortable shoes are a must. Forget the cute flats with the pointy toes and ditch the heels for shoes with arch support. Invest in shoes that provide shock absorption and stability to keep your ankles from rolling. Shoes with an open toe box help to alleviate pressure. You can also use shoe inserts for comfort and protection. If you have arthritis in your ankles, start wearing shoes that protect your heel and prevent you from rolling your foot inward.

A lot of the time, injury can be a factor in developing arthritis. When you sprain your ankle, the ligaments are stretched. Depending on how bad the strain is, the ligament fibers can be damaged or even completely torn. Ankle fractures may also contribute to arthritis. To prevent ankle pain and injury, take it easy instead of pushing yourself. If you are injured, make sure to rest, apply ice, keep the limb elevated and wear compression socks to reduce swelling. If you do not experience swelling, apply heat to relieve soreness.

Wear ankle braces or compression socks to reduce ankle swelling, joint stiffness and pain. If you have swollen, weak or injured ankles, try wearing an ankle brace or wrap. Choose from top of the line ankle braces and wraps by manufacturers like Therafirm, Juzo, Mediven, Solidea and more to find the best product for your condition. If your arthritis makes it hard for you to get your compression stockings on, consider trying the Sigvaris Select Comfort line. These socks are designed for easy donning, which is ideal for those with arthritis or limited hand strength. Sigvaris Select Comfort includes knee highs, thigh highs and pantyhose for men and women in 20-30mmHg and 30-40mmHg compression levels. You can also use the Jobst Stocking Donner to get your socks on without the hassle. This is ideal for those who have a hard time bending at the waist or have a hard time getting the sock on their foot. If you have arthritis in other areas of the body, here are some other awesome products for all types of arthritis. The Therall products are very popular because they use heat to provide soothing relief to painful areas.

Try to walk on flat, even ground instead of gravel or sand to avoid ankle pain or injuries. When you are sitting down, keep your feet flat or use a foot rest. Sitting with your feet pointed behind you or crossing them is bad for your ankles because it puts pressure on them, which can cause stiffness and discomfort. It is important to strengthen your ankles with exercises. Use a resistance band to strengthen your shin and foot muscles, which support your ankles for stability. You can also go for a swim to strengthen your ankle muscles without experiencing as much pain.