The Medical Benefits of Compression Socks

Did you know that compression socks are one of the biggest trending items of the year? Everybody from nurses to accountants to athletes is hopping aboard the compression sock trend to get the advantages that only compression socks can deliver. But what exactly are the advantages? Do compression socks really work? And if they do, how do you know how much compression you need? Let's find out! 

How it works 

Compression socks offer graduated compression meaning greater compression level at the lower end of the sock, ankles. Gradually, as you move up the sock, the compression decreases which aids in “pushing” the blood flow back up towards the heart.  Due to their unique fit and usage, compression socks use stronger elastics than traditional socks to create significant pressure on the legs.   

Compression Socks for Tired Legs 

You may have heard of compression socks formerly being used for diabetic patients and the occasional airplane passenger. But did you know that the benefits of compression can work for most people as well? As you stand on your feet throughout the day or even sit at a desk, your heart is pumping blood through your legs. As time passes, the effects of gravity start to kick in and you're left with tired, achy legs and swollen feet. Your arteries and veins are working hard to pump blood back up your leg to recirculate it, and compression socks are just the right tool to give them the boost they need to do their job more efficiently.  

Compression socks have many benefits such as relieving muscle fatigue, preventing leg swelling, promotes leg energy, and aids in recovery after a long day.   

 

Recovery & Healing with Compression 

Wearing compression socks during your time on your feet will help push that blood back up your legs, but it's after your workout when the socks will provide most benefit. In fact, even some of the most skeptical studies have shown that wearing compression socks after a period of intense activity has therapeutic benefits for your tired legs and shortens the amount of healing time for your muscles. To beat the post-workout soreness, try a pair of compression socks with at least 10-14 mmHg of compression in them, and wear them for at least 2 or 3 hours. 

 

What Compression Do I Need For My Legs?

Compression is measured by millimeters of mercury(mmHg) and pressure levels increase in line with the level of compression.  Most healthy individual seeking compression sock for every day use will be fine with sticking between 10 and 14 mmHg.  These have all of the benefits listed above.  For those on their feet for long periods of time, nurses and medical professionals, or someone hard on their legs and feet, runners,  try 15-20 mmHg compression socks.