


You may be asking yourself, “do they really make a difference?” The answer is yes and this article will explain how.
Benefits of compression socks running skin#
Once they’re on, the compression socks should lay smoothly against your skin and feel snug but not painful.The next time you watch a race on television, look at the elite athletes leading the field. If that doesn’t work, a handy gadget called a stocking donner will do the trick. If you’re having trouble, try wearing rubber gloves or applying a little cornstarch powder to your legs before putting on the socks. Because they need to be tight to work properly, it can be tricky to pull them into place, especially if you’ve opted for thinner stockings that resemble pantyhose. The biggest challenge with compression socks is getting them on. If you need them for a serious medical reason like preventing DVT following surgery, ask your doctor if that length will work for you. Since they tend to be more comfortable, knee-high socks are typically a good place to start. What You Can ExpectĬompression socks also come in a variety of fabrics and can range from knee- to thigh-high. This level might be necessary for someone with varicose veins, severe swelling, or who is on bed rest following surgery. Higher compression-anywhere from 20 mmHg to more than 40 mmHg-is considered medical grade. Moderate pressure-15 to 20 mmHg-is usually better for people who have minor swelling in their legs or who are concerned about developing a DVT while flying. Mild pressure, typically anything less than 15 mmHg, is a good choice to combat run-of-the-mill fatigue after being on your feet all day. Conditions like varicose veins may involve a doctor’s prescription, and your insurance company might cover the cost.Įven if you don’t need a custom order, it’s helpful to be familiar with the different pressure ratings that are available. If you’re not sure what variety you should purchase, talk to your doctor. » READ ALSO: NPO Medical Abbreviation Using Compression SocksĬompression socks are easy to find at your local Rite Aid Pharmacy or medical supply store and can be purchased without a prescription unless you have a condition that calls for a custom model. Compression socks won’t cure these conditions, but they can combat the aching, swelling, and general discomfort that often accompanies them. You have varicose veins or leg ulcers.You have a clotting disorder that puts you at risk for DVT, or a family history of DVT.Research has shown that people who wear compression stockings during air travel are less likely to develop DVT or swelling in their legs. You’ll be inactive and confined to a tight space for many hours, which increases the risk of blood clots. You’ve recently had surgery or have been on bed rest-inactivity increases your risk of DVT.Compression socks are most likely to benefit you if: You shouldn’t use them if you have nerve damage in your legs or another condition that affects skin sensation, peripheral arterial disease, a history of a peripheral arterial bypass grafting, a skin infection on your feet or legs, dermatitis with oozing or fragile skin, massive leg swelling, or pulmonary edema from congestive heart failure. With a few exceptions, there’s typically little harm in trying compression socks, but it’s wise to talk to your doctor or Rite Aid Pharmacist before purchasing them. What Level Of Compression Socks Do I Need?.Can It Be Dangerous To Wear Compression Socks?.What Are The Benefits Of Compression Socks?.Whether you’re at high risk for DVT or just feel like your legs are a bit achy and heavy, compression socks might help. The danger of DVT is that a clot could break off, travel through your body, and block blood flow in one of the arteries to your lungs, causing a potentially fatal condition called a pulmonary embolism. This simple technology can help fight swelling and discomfort, and may also reduce the risk of developing DVT (deep vein thrombosis), a clot that forms in the deep veins. Some varieties are graduated, meaning there’s more pressure at the ankles and it decreases further up the leg.

By providing consistent pressure along with leg movement, they encourage blood to flow upward from your ankles through the deep veins in your legs and back toward your heart. There are many benefits of compression socks, which are pretty much exactly what they sound like. While it might seem harmless, sitting in one position for long periods of time can prevent blood from flowing the way it should, but compression socks might offer a simple solution.

Problems with blood flow can lead to uncomfortable aches and pains, and in some situations, they can even be dangerous. Compression Socks: Good circulation is one of the most important parts of your health.
