What Are Compression Socks For?
You are wondering: what are compression socks for? What do they do? Should I be wearing them?
Well, you are certainly not alone. These days compression socks are everywhere. They are used by people all over the world for a large range of reasons. Whether you have been prescribed compression socks by your doctor or just want to know what all the fuss is about, this post is a good starting point. We answer what compression socks are for, and provide an outline of their purpose and how they work.
The purpose of compression socks
Compression socks provide a gentle squeeze which promotes the circulation of blood towards the heart. They generally provide gradient compression which means their compression strength decreases in one direction. By having the most compression around the ankle and decreasing compression up the calf, blood is encouraged to flow upwards away from the feet towards the heart.
Wearing compression socks will squeeze the veins within the legs. This results in increased velocity of blood. That is, the blood will flow faster through the veins. This increased blood flow reduces any pooling of blood in the feet and ankles. It also encourages the circulation of oxygen and other nutrients within the blood which can aid in the rejuvenation and recovery of tired, aching legs.
Compression socks are also commonly known as compression stockings, support socks and pressure stockings. There are different types and come in a variety of lengths, sizes of compression strengths.
What are compression socks for: versatile applications
The ability of compression socks to promote the flow of blood away from the heart makes them suitable for various applications.
They are often recommended for anyone suffering from swelling in the legs, varicose veins, spider veins, lymphedema, venous ulcers, or for anyone recovering from surgery.
Compression socks are also very popular with those who spend a lot of time in one position or on their feet. A popular application is for when you have to sit for an extended time with limited room to move. This encourages the pooling of blood in your feet, ankles and legs. Compression socks reduce this pooling by helping the blood to flow away from the feet back towards the heart.
One of most common applications of compression socks is for those who spend a lot of time on their feet and suffer from tired, heavy feeling legs. For example, nursing compression socks are very popular. The increased blood circulation helps rejuvenate tired legs. With more blood flow comes more oxygen and other nutrients which help muscles recover and feel fresh.
For this same reason compression socks are popular with runners who believe that the increased blood and oxygen circulation helps them gain extra performance and decreases the recovery time of their leg muscles.
What are compression socks not for?
Compression socks may not be suitable for everyone. They come in a variety of compression strengths and while some may suit your need, others may not. If you are unsure about whether you should wear compression socks, it is recommended that you consult your doctor.
Final words
We hope this has answered your question: what are compression socks for? We would love to hear from you. Please leave any comments or questions below.