When & Why To Start Using Compression Socks (And Which Ones Are Best for You?
To a naïve eye, compression socks look like regular socks, but there is a whole another universe related to it. According to health magazines, compression socks are worn by people for comfort, to do well in sports, and to prevent any serious medical conditions. But is that really so?
What are compression socks?
A pair of compression socks are basically form fitting, snug, and a little bit stretchy. Such compression socks are tighter around one’s ankle’s area and get loose as they ride up the leg.
When it comes to the crux of things, a pair of compression socks help the flow of blood, lessens any muscular pain and discomfort, and eliminates swelling (edema) in one’s leg. They help to prevent the formation of blood clots, or other blood circulation problems and reduce fatigue in the legs as well.
When it comes to compression socks, it is not necessary to wear the pair, as is the custom with other normal socks; just one can also do the trick. As they are used for medicinal purposes, therefore, wearing the compression socks on a good leg can prove to be dangerous.
Compression socks’ function:
As compression socks are form fitting and snug, this act creates pressure on the blood vessels which smoothens the flow of the blood. The arteries in charge of taking the oxygen-rich blood get relaxed which in turn help the leg to breathe and work in a better manner.
Compression socks keep one’s legs fit and muscles closely knit together which prevents any ache or deprivation of oxygen or blood. The leg doesn’t go to sleep as often, and any lightheadedness or the feeling of being dizzy also goes out of the window.
As it is the function of compression socks to keep the blood in a constant and smooth flow, therefore, the blood does not clot; which is dangerous as the clot can swim up and end up in any part of the body, for example, the lungs.
When & why to start using compression socks?
Compression socks are the calling of and can be easily found caressing the feet of people such as pilots, flight attendants, salespeople, nurses, teachers, doctors, runners, athletes. In short, it can be helpful for any and every person belonging from a profession that requires one to stay on their feet for a long amount of time. In fact, expecting mothers, people recovering from surgeries, or people who complain about any general leg cramps related issue can highly benefit.
How many kinds of compression socks are there?
Compression socks come in different shapes, sizes, and forms. There are even compression sleeves found in the market. Though most compression socks go just below the knee, in severe cases or if one requires, there are compression tights available as well that cover the entire thigh area.
Which compression socks are the best for you?
- Compression socks which are padded at the ball of the feet.
- Avoid bulky compression socks, so it can be easy to wear footwear on top
- Try the no-slip cuff compression socks, which help the sock stay at its proper designated place despite one’s fast pace.
- Snug, custom fit, hugging compression socks, which can help reduce or avoid blisters completely.
- As compression socks are form fitting, they do not get loose with time and fall to one’s ankles, even in the absence of the constricting ring.
Precautions
- Avoid bunching them around a particular spot. Always wear compression socks in a smooth manner.
- Get the correct measured pair of stocking. Don’t fold, or roll the top part down as it would increase the pressure on that particular area.
- You can wear footwear over compression socks.
- Take off the compression socks while taking a shower or bath.
Compression socks push the blood away from the legs and restrict the expansion of arteries; therefore, it is advised for smokers, or people with diabetic issues to not wear compression socks without the doctor’s permission.
Also, note that compression levels greater than 20 mmHg require a prescription.
Can compression socks be dangerous for you?
Compression socks are of little to no danger for people, provided people do not fold them at the top. However, there are some people for whom compression socks can be dangerous such as people suffering from:
- Peripheral neuropathy or conditions which have a direct effect on skin sensation
- A history of peripheral arterial bypass grafting,
- Pulmonary edema
- Peripheral artery disease
- Dermatitis with oozing or fragile skin
- Skin infection
- Congestive heart failure
Each of the above-mentioned diseases presents a different amount of risks or threats for the human body which cannot be neglected. Examples such as:
- In some severe cases, the flow of oxygen can be worsened with the passage of time or continuous use
- People with a sensory issue will not be able to detect or point out if the compression socks are too tight or uncomfortable
- Any infectious area can worsen if it remains covered for a long period of time
How long should one wear a pair of compression socks?
There’s no one general answer to this question. As the reasons for one to wear the pair of compression socks differs, so will the time duration. As always, it is recommended that one should only wear the socks after being advised by the doctor. Just because the pair is easily available over the counter does not mean that it is not dangerous.
If you are wearing the socks because of stiffness or soreness in your leg, see when the soreness or stiffness occurs. If it is common during the day, and if you do wear them throughout the day religiously, then try and avoid wearing them through the night as well.
In a nutshell, if you find comfort in compression socks, start wearing the compression socks only after taking advice from your doctor.
