When to take measurements?

It is important that the edema is at its most reduced state. Most often this is found first thing in the morning or at the end of treatment.

When to measure for a custom garment?

You should measure for a custom garment after determining that an arm will be too large or too small for a standard size. You will have to take the measurements listed to the right and compare to a size chart to determine this.

How to take length measurements.

Length measurements will be necessary between some circumference points. It is recommended that you mark the arm with a non-permanent, non-toxic marker at each circumference measurement made. The length measurement is then taken from point 'c' along the inside of the arm to each circumference point.

Length 'g-h' is taken on the outside of the arm from point 'g' up to point 'h'.

Measurement Points

Circumference point 'c' is the point of greatest compression and therefore the most important point. This point is found distally on the arm where the wrist meets the hand. One should find the smallest circumference at this point.

Circumference point 'd' is the mid point between the wrist and the elbow.

Circumference point 'e' is found at the middle of the elbow.

Circumference point 'f' is found at the middle of the upper arm, across the biceps.

Point 'g' is taken around the upper arm at the axilla. For ease in determining this point, place a book up into the arm pit area. Point 'g' on the arm will be even with the top of the book.

Circumference point 'h' is a vertical measurment taken from the axilla up over the shoulder. For ease in determining this point, keept the book used in point 'g' in place and follow a vertical line up over the shoulder.

Circumference point 'i' is taken from the top of the shoulder (point 'h') across the chest and down around the opposite axilla. Positioning of this strap can vary depending on how the patient prefers to wear the garment.