Compression socks are socks used to help promote blood flow in the leg. They come in different lengths and also feature a stocking option.
These socks are an excellent option for nurses and doctors on their feet all day and for patients with varicose veins and swelling.
These socks are usually tighter at the ankles and loosen up as they go up the leg. They are designed to meet you at your point of need and ensure you are comfortable.
Compression socks also feature different health benefits, making them an excellent investment. So if you’re wondering how these socks work and the various health benefits you’ll enjoy, keep reading.
How Compression Socks Work
The primary function of compression socks is to help improve blood circulation in your leg. The veins in your leg facilitate blood flow from the leg to the heart while the arteries bring oxygenated blood back to the legs. So, addressing any blocks that may hinder easy blood flow is essential.
Compression socks will improve the vein’s functions allowing for easier blood circulation in your leg. As a result, this will help ease swelling and keep your leg from aching and becoming tired because of standing for too long.
How to Wear Them
Wearing your compression socks will require you to keep a few things in mind including;
- Ensure that the socks lie flat against your skin to maximize the benefits of compression socks. Avoid bunching your socks since it will reduce their effectiveness.
- Choose the right size of socks to avoid getting ones that are too long. Folding your socks may lead to more blood flow issues since they’ll become too tight.
- If you are using compression socks to reduce swelling, consider putting them on in the morning when the swelling is down.
- Consult your doctor on how long you need to keep your compression socks on during the day.
- Avoid self-prescribing compression socks to avoid causing more adverse issues to your leg. Instead, ensure that you consult your doctor to find the best option for you.
Choosing the Right Compression Socks
All compression socks aren’t created to be equal. Yes, they will deliver your desired results but investing in the right option is essential. However, the material, intensity of compression, and durability will differ significantly.
So, when getting your compression socks, your doctor recommends the best brand to use, considering the required compression level. In addition, you will also need to measure your leg to ensure that you get the right size to help you improve blood flow with ease.
Health Benefits of Using Compression Socks
Improve Blood Circulation
Compression socks come in handy to help improve blood circulation, especially for people with venous insufficiency. Venous insufficiency is when the veins in your leg are not facilitating blood flow to the heart.
Wearing compression socks helps the valves in the veins work better to allow better blood circulation and avoid blood pooling in your legs and feet.
Reduces Swelling in the Feet and Legs
Compression socks help reduce swelling in patients with diabetes and also pregnant women. However, if you have diabetes, it is recommended that you pay close attention to the progress of your selling during the day.
Record the swelling, color, and temperature of the feet in the morning before wearing the socks and check back after removing them. If your feet change color, consult your doctor to find better ways to relieve the swelling.
Facilitates Muscle Recovery
Compression socks help promote muscle recovery by boosting circulation, relieving soreness, and preventing leg fatigue after any hgh intensity activity such as jogging, sprinting, etc.
Standing for too long will also wear out the muscles resulting in soreness and extreme leg fatigue. This is especially important for doctors and nurses who will spend most of their time on their feet. So, wearing nurse compression socks will help prevent that and allow for faster muscle recovery.
Reduces Orthostatic Hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension is when your blood pressure drops when you switch from sitting down to standing up. Wearing compression socks will help improve blood flow and reduce symptoms.
Prevents Venous Ulcers
Venous ulcers are a result of disrupted blood flow in the legs. These leg ulcers may be painful, so finding ways to prevent them is essential.
Studies show that compression socks are effective in preventing venous leg ulcers as well as preventing their reoccurrence. Therefore, wearing compression socks is a great idea to avoid this condition.