What You Need to Know About Compression Socks Before You Buy

Compression socks are snug-fitting and stretchy socks that put pressure around your legs. Graduated compression socks, though, have a tighter fit around the ankles and loosen up as they move up your leg. There are also compression sleeves, which are like tubes. Imagine long socks without the end part for the feet.

What are Compression Socks for?

These socks essentially boost your blood flow and circulation. They reduce swelling in your legs along with the resulting pain. With less swelling, they also cut down on the chances of you developing deep vein thrombosis, which is a health condition that involves blood clots. It also prevents other problems linked to blood circulation.

Who Uses These Socks?

Compression socks are often used by people who meet the following conditions. If any of these conditions apply to you, then you’ll want to start thinking about using compression socks, too.

·       People with circulation problems like varicose veins, diabetes, or DVT. Those with high risks of developing these conditions also benefit a lot from using compression socks.

·       People who have just undergone surgery.

·       Those who stand or sit for hours at work.

·       Athletes

·       Pregnant women since they tend to develop edema, which is swelling around the ankles. They usually wear edema socks.

·       People with mobility issues because they can’t move their legs.

What Do Compression Socks Do?

·       The pressure that compression socks put around your legs improves the way your blood vessels work. They help relax your arteries, which leads to better blood circulation. In addition, the socks also prevent achiness and tiredness in your legs. That’s also how they ease swelling in the legs and ankles. If you tend to get light-headed when you get up, these socks help stop that as well.

·       With compression socks, your blood keeps moving. That’s how it prevents blood clots. Blood clots are dangerous because they can travel with your blood when they break free and then they can get stuck somewhere, like your lungs. Blood clots affect your circulation, which can lead to discoloration of your skin, swelling, and other health problems.

·       Athletes also wear compression socks, especially when they’re training because it improves blood flow. And optimum blood flow during training or while they’re playing improves the quality and level of their performance. They also won’t be as sore and won’t have as much in terms of muscle cramps.

How Do You Wear Them?

Just like any other sock, you let them lie flat against your skin. However, avoid bunching the material. If you do, that will reduce the coverage of the socks. If they’re too long, though, that’s a handy solution. A better option, though, is to look for socks in the right length and size. Also, if you roll the top down, that tightens the fit so much that it could cut off your circulation. Be careful not to do that. If your doctor has recommended that you wear these socks, you’ll need to keep them on most of the time. Make sure you ask how long you need to use them.