5 Things to Know Before Slipping into Compression Socks
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Time to read 5 min
Everyone seems to be using compression socks these days - and for good reason. If you are having issues with leg pain and you are looking to increase comfort in your legs, compression socks may be a good option to consider. Compression socks can offer many benefits for users by increasing blood flow and circulation. To understand compression socks more, take a look at five things to know about them below.
What are compression socks?
Compression socks are typically a type of high-rise sock designed to be worn around your feet, ankles, and calves. Unlike regular socks, compression socks have a tighter fit intended to apply light pressure around the muscles and veins in the area. For the best fit, this garment is usually made with a mix of nylon and spandex to allow for a firm fit while also keeping them breathable and most importantly, comfortable. The design uses graduated compression, meaning that the most pressure is applied at the bottom of the sock in the foot and ankle area, while less pressure is applied at the top of the sock around the calf area. This helps move blood from higher-pressure areas to lower-pressure areas and allows blood to flow back to the heart. As you can see, they have an important medical function, but just because they are medical products doesn’t mean they need to be boring. Compression socks come in fun colors and various sizes to fit your lifestyle!
Who needs compression socks?
With compression socks, it is good to understand the difference between who needs compression socks and who can benefit from them. You may need compression socks if your doctor suggests that you get them to help treat certain medical conditions that decrease the flow of blood in the veins. In most cases, this is because the medical condition affects blood flow and circulation. Another reason you may need compression socks is if you are pregnant. Pregnant women often have swollen feet, ankles, and legs due to excess fluids in the body, especially in the second and third trimesters. In this case, compression socks may be needed for a more comfortable pregnancy. Another reason you may need compression socks is if you recently had surgery. Compression socks may help you heal from surgery faster by preventing swelling and blood clots.
Who can benefit from compression socks?
Even if someone doesn’t have a medical condition, they can still benefit from using compression socks. People who fall into one of these categories, should specially consider them:
You are a traveler: Between the extended periods of sitting and the high altitude of flights, travelers often experience swelling in their feet, ankles, and legs. To prevent this swelling, I typically wear compression socks when I fly on an airplane to make sure that I am feeling my best going into my travel plans.
You work out a lot: Working out can cause stress to the tissues and muscles in your legs. Compression socks can help you get a better workout by providing stability, as well as reducing your risk of injury and speeding up muscle recovery.
People who have varicose veins or have a family history of varicose veins: The graduated compression from compression socks helps relieve stress on veins which can help prevent swelling or bulging of your veins. As someone who has a family history of varicose veins, compression socks can help me prevent varicose veins as I get older.
Elderly people: As we age, our bodies lose some stability due to less efficient blood flow. Thankfully, wearing compression socks daily has helped my grandmother reduce swelling in her feet and ankles through increased blood flow. By wearing these socks, she can reduce her discomfort and stay more stable on her feet.
Extended sitting or standing: Whether you sit for extended periods throughout the day or are constantly on your feet, the muscles and veins in your feet, ankles, and legs can become tired over time. Compression socks keep your blow flowing, prevent swelling, and provide a slight pressure that improves stability.
What are the different levels of compression and how do I choose my level?
Compression socks typically come in four different levels of compression including:
Mild (8-15 mmHg)
Moderate (15-20 mmHg)
Firm (20-30 mmHg) *Note: this is where medical-grade compression starts.
Extra firm (30-40 mmHg)
Different compression levels are chosen based on your individual needs. The mild and moderate compression levels are usually the most common levels of compression for everyday use based on comfort levels. These compression levels are effective for various groups of people including travelers, athletes, elderly people, and those treating medical problems. Firm and extra-firm compression socks are usually worn by people who have a medical condition or were suggested to use them by a medical professional. These levels of compression provide maximum support.
How do I choose the best socks for my needs?
When considering different compression socks it is important to first determine your ideal compression level. Overall, you will pick your level of compression based on how active of a lifestyle you have, your medical history, and your comfort. If you are unsure of what compression level to select, you can always reach out to a medical professional for help with your individual case. It’s essential that you pick the right level of compression because too little compression might not be enough to give you the support you need, but too much compression may cause issues down the line.
Next, you have to consider size and fit. Keep in mind that compression socks work best in the areas where the sock touches your skin, so tall compression socks typically are most effective. Additionally, it is important to know that men's and women’s compression socks are designed differently due to size differences. If you are looking for firm compression, Mighty Well offers different styles and colors in tall lengths in both CEP compression socks for women and CEP compression socks for men .
By understanding these five things about compression socks, you will be able to choose the best compression socks for your personal needs and preferences. Compression socks can benefit nearly everyone by improving support and comfort. So whether you are facing medical problems, planning a trip, working on your fitness, or are just looking to improve your health, compression socks can be a key item in your wardrobe to improve comfort in your life.
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