Compression socks are also known as compression stockings. They are generally worn around the legs by many people. There are many chances that you have seen compression socks at some time in your life. If you do not have any idea what is the purpose to use them then you have landed on the right page. In this article, you will know about all the details related to compression socks. Without further delay, let’s start the discussion.
Table of Contents
What are compression socks?
Compression socks or stockings are stretchable socks that can compress the legs. Wearing these stockings can provide relief. Because they increase blood circulation. The compression socks push the blood in an upward motion. In this way, help prevent blood clots and inflammation.
How do compression stockings work?
Blood vessels of the legs work better when compression socks put pressure on them. Arteries that are carrying blood to your muscles can relax. So, blood flows easily. The veins receive a boost, forcing blood back toward the heart.
Your legs won’t swell or hurt on wearing compression stocks. They also lessen swelling in the leg and ankles and guard against varicose veins. They can also prevent you from feeling faint or lightheaded when you stand up.
Compression sleeves and socks are worn by some athletes, including runners, basketball players, and triathletes. According to the notion, during exercise, improved blood flow will aid in supplying muscles with oxygen, and the support will aid in preventing tissue damage. Also, the enhanced blood and lymph circulation will aid in a speedy muscle recovery later. They won’t cramp as frequently, and they won’t be as sore.
Even though studies suggest the equipment has little to no impact on sports performance, some people firmly believe in it. Perhaps they have one because they believe they have one. More data supports quicker recovery, but not by enough for weekend athletes to notice a difference.
How to Choose Compression Socks
Here are some suggestions on how to pick the compression socks that will work best for you.
- Choose the proper type.
Choose compression socks that fit you and are the right length. So that you can gain the most benefit from them. Consult your physician about it. These can aid in determining the proper pressure and fit.
- Choose the appropriate compression ratio.
The sort of condition you have will determine how much compression you require on your legs. The range of compression in mmHg is used by the manufacturer to mark them.
Your choices consist of:
- a low compression. They only deliver 20 mmHg or less. These socks or stockings are available for purchase at your local pharmacy or online.
- an average compression. They deliver tightness of 20–30 mmHg. These will aid patients who have varicose veins or DVT in managing discomfort and edema.
- low to high compression. The mmHg they deliver ranges from 30 to 40. For people with significant pain or edema, they work best.
- compressed tightly. About 40 and 50 mmHg are produced by this type. They are typically utilised by those with a history of serious vein issues or blood clots.
- Choose the appropriate fit.
Measure the length of your ankle and leg before choosing a stocking.
Qualified medical personnel will take your measurement. In this way, you can select the perfect fit compression garments. Also, they will show you how to use the stockings. You should take your measurements when your legs are the least swollen.
Types of compression socks
Most pharmacies, big-box stores, and many internet businesses sell compression socks.
These are available in various lengths to fit different body areas. Most stockings for DVT are below the knee in length. But, you can also find thigh-high and waist-length tights.
Also, they differ in mmHg pressure levels (millimetres of mercury). The right type of stockings should be snug but not so. Most of the time, mild compression is enough to keep you comfortable while standing at work. To stop DVT, you’ll need higher numbers and a tighter fit.
You should consult your doctor or primary care provider so that you can select the right option for you.
Compression stockings or socks come in three different categories:
- Graduated compression stockings:
These kinds of stocks put more pressure on the ankle. The compression decreases as it moves up towards the knee. These stockings generally require a doctor’s prescription and professional fitting.. The healthcare provider may recommend this if you have orthostatic hypotension or peripheral edema.
- Anti-embolism stockings:
These stockings are also like graduated compression stockings. The pressure gets less intense as you go up the leg. They are designed for persons who are not very mobile. They help in preventing deep vein thrombosis. Anti-embolism stockings need a prescription from a doctor as well as expert fitting.
- Non-medical support hosiery:
Most pharmacies carry this style of compression stocking, which doesn’t need a prescription. Support hosiery helps ease sore and aching legs. Because it offers the same level of compression throughout the stocking.
Who should be wearing compression socks?
Compression socks should be used by individuals who feel pain or inflammation in the legs or who feel varicose veins. Some people use compression socks after having surgery to increase blood circulation. Pregnant women also use stockings when they feel pain or swelling in their legs.
Compression socks are helpful in many conditions. Your healthcare provider can prescribe compression socks for these reasons:
- To reduce inflammation in ankles and legs
- To increase circulation in the legs
- To manage orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure which you feel after standing up)
- To decrease varicose veins
- To prevent the risk of deep vein thrombosis
- Prevent blood from pooling in the leg veins
The following type of individuals can also use compression socks for different purposes:
Athletes:
Athletes wear compression socks during work out or while competition. Socks improve blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart. Compression socks also boost post-recovery workouts.
Bedridden patients:
Individuals who use a wheelchair or are bedridden also use wear compression stockings. It can increase blood flow and decrease inflammation.
Airline crew members and passengers:
People who travel a lot such as crew members and passengers use this as well. It helps to decrease blood clots. Stockings reduce the chances of developing deep vein thrombosis.
Working people:
People who work all compression socks by standing on their feet can also get relief from wearing compression stockings. It can decrease pain in the legs and ankles.
Pregnant females:
These women can get pain and swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. They should use compression stockings on their leg as a preventive measure. In this way, they can avoid swelling and pain.
Advice and tips for the first-time users
Dr. Botek says some people may find compression socks uncomfortable. They can take them off. You do not have to wear compression socks all day. Dr. Botek also says that you may take some time to get comfortable with them.
- Wearing compression socks
You should wear compression stockings in the same way as you wear simple socks. Use a little talcum powder on your legs or feet if you’re having problems putting the compression sock on. To ensure that the compression is distributed throughout your feet and legs, try to pull up the compression sock. Attempt to prevent any specific areas of the sock from bunching up. Your skin should be covered by your compression socks, but they shouldn’t hurt.
- Keeping your compression socks clean
You can wear them all day. When you get dressed up in the morning till bedtime. However, you should follow the doctor’s advice. It may take you a while to get used to them. Once you will get used to it you will feel comfortable. To wash and dry your compression socks between uses, like you would with any other pair of socks or stockings. You should buy at least two sets.
- Schedule a meeting
Always consult your healthcare provider before using compression therapy. If you have any concerns about the blood flow to your legs. You can discuss your concerns with the doctor. They can check your circulation. They can also refer you to a vascular expert if you need specialised care.
Latest research evidence about the benefit of compression socks
The latest research tells about the usefulness of stocks in the following way:
- Repeated running bouts:
In this study, the effect of socks was investigated on five males. It was concluded that the performance was improved.
- Beneficial for runners:
In a study, the psychological and physiological parameters were tested for the runners. The participants who wear compression socks show improvement in performance. They feel less muscle pain and inflammation.
- Wound healing for venous ulcers
One study was based on the Cochrane database of systematic reviews. It concluded that compression garments can heal wounds of venous ulcers. These garments decrease pain and improve life quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can anybody put on compression stocks?
In general, compression stocks are secure. Yet, they are not everyone’s best course of treatment. If a person has any of these medical conditions he should talk to a doctor. These conditions include:
- Coronary artery disease
- severe edema brought on by heart failure
- a sensory ailment such as neuropathy
- cellulitis or other severe skin conditions or diseases
2. How many hours per day should compression stocks be worn?
Your stockings will be fitted by a professional if you have a prescription. Also, your doctor can clarify how long you should wear them.
According to numerous accounts, you can wear compression stocks all day long. Do not wear them when whether you’re bathing or sleeping—to cure or prevent venous issues.
On the basis of your medical background and health requirements. You can then receives advice on compression garments and how to use them.
3. Has wearing compression socks have any drawbacks?
Compression socks have certain possible hazards, just like any other treatment approach. Compression socks may result in:
- Compression socks can feel quite tight and uncomfortable at higher pressures.
- Skin injury or irritation symptoms may include burning, itching, redness, or bruising.
- Bad circulation: Blood flow can be reduced by fitting compression stockings.
Wearing compression socks that are tight can result in superficial venous thrombosis. These superficial blood clots are less likely to result in issues. They form in veins near the skin’s surface. Deep vein thrombosis, a blood clot, is not triggered by stocks.
4. What are some compression sock alternatives?
Other options for socks are also available. Surgery may be necessary for those with venous problems. If you have blood clots, your doctor may recommend intermittent compression devices. So that to assist avoid clots or anticoagulants (blood thinners). Also, you can become more mobile.
5. How quickly do compression socks start to function?
Compression socks’ advantages may be felt by many people. Others may not see any effects for several days or even weeks after starting to wear them. Consult your doctor before using it.
