What Does a Compression Sock Do?

Compression socks are a type of hosiery that are designed to apply gentle pressure to your legs and can help to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. They are often worn by people who sit or stand for long periods of time, as well as by people who have certain medical conditions that affect circulation in the legs, such as varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Compression socks work by squeezing the legs in a specific pattern, which helps to push blood and other fluids up the legs and back to the heart. This can help to reduce the risk of blood clots, as well as prevent swelling and discomfort in the legs. They come in different levels of compression to accommodate different needs, measured in mmHg.

Many people who wear compression socks find that they are comfortable to wear, and that they help to reduce fatigue and discomfort in the legs. They are also available in a variety of styles, including knee-high, thigh-high, and pantyhose styles, which can be worn under regular clothing.

It is important to note that these are generally recommended by a healthcare professional and are not suitable for everyone. For example, people with peripheral artery disease (PAD), should not wear compression socks as it may worsen the condition. In cases where swelling is caused by underlying medical conditions, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using compression socks.

Benefits of Compression Socks

Improved blood flow:

By applying gentle pressure to the legs, compression socks can help to push blood and other fluids back to the heart, which can help to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

Reduced swelling:

Compression socks can be of great help for reducing swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet. This can be especially beneficial for all the people who are on their feet all day, or who have conditions such as varicose veins.

Reduced fatigue:

Wearing compression socks can help to reduce fatigue and discomfort in the legs. This can be especially beneficial for people who are on their feet all day, or who have jobs that require prolonged sitting or standing.

Reduced risk of injury:

Compression socks can help to reduce the risk of injury, especially in athletes and people who are on their feet all day. They can also help to reduce the soreness in your muscles.

It is important to note that compression socks should be worn under the guidance of healthcare professionals and should not be used as a substitute for other treatment, such as elevation of legs for swelling.

How to Wear Compression Socks

Wearing compression socks properly is important to ensure that you get the most benefit from them. Here are some tips for putting on and wearing compression socks:

Putting them on:

It can be a challenge to put on compression socks, especially if they are tight-fitting. To make it easier, roll the sock up like a donut and then slide your foot into it. Once your foot is in the sock, gently unroll the sock up your leg.

Putting them on in the morning:

It’s best to put on compression socks in the morning, before your feet and legs have had a chance to swell. This will make it easier to put on the socks and ensure that they are working at their full potential.

Taking them off:

To take off compression socks, gently roll the sock down your leg. Do not pull or tug on the sock, as this can damage the material or compromise the compression.

Length of wear:

As per the suggestion of a healthcare professional, compression socks should be worn for a certain period of time each day, typically during the hours you are on your feet. The length of time you should wear them will vary depending on the individual needs and the type of compression sock that is being used.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Skin irritation:

Some people may experience irritation or redness in their skin when wearing compression socks. This is more likely to happen if your socks are too tight or if the person has sensitive skin.

Compromised circulation:

Compression socks are designed to improve circulation, but if they are too tight, they may restrict blood flow and cause numbness, tingling, or pain in the legs.

Inappropriate compression level:

If the compression level is not appropriate for the individual, it can cause discomfort and may not provide enough compression or in some cases too much which can be harmful.

Compression band marking:

Some people may experience temporary red marks on their skin, where the compression band of the sock sits. This is nothing serious and will disappear after a few minutes of taking off the sock.

Conclusion: Benefits Outweigh Risks

Overall, the benefits of compression socks outweigh the risks for most individuals. Compression socks can help to improve blood flow, reduce swelling and discomfort, and prevent blood clots in the legs. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using them, to ensure that they are appropriate for you and that you are wearing them properly.

What Does a Compression Sock Do?