How many people know about compression socks, which are also known as pressure socks? Do you?
They are very different from conventional stockings. Sold in many places, most people may have probably seen them out of the corner of their eyes as they whirl past the hosiery department in many department and sporting goods stores.
These specially-made stockings are made from synthetic materials and are designed in various lengths and tightness and gently squeeze legs so that blood flow is stimulated from the legs to the heart.
Compression socks are safe to wear by most people, but should be avoided if you have severe peripheral artery disease (a condition caused by a reduced blood flow in the legs).
They are also usually not recommended to wear while sleeping, as legs should have time to rest between periods of constriction.
According to foot surgeon Dr. Abraham Wagner, DPM: “Compression socks are essential for improving leg circulation, addressing a common yet underutilized health option. They are particularly effective for venous issues, with nearly 90% of leg problems originating in the veins. The socks apply graduated pressure to promote blood flow, reducing the risk of blood pooling, swelling, and clots, especially when sitting for extended periods like during long flights. Additionally, they are crucial in post-operative scenarios. After surgery, these socks help manage swelling and facilitate better healing by ensuring blood flow to the surgical area.”
Medical vs Non Medical Compression Stockings
Some compression stockings are sold without prescriptions because they contain a small, light and more uniform degree of pressure.
Over-the-counter compression stockings are perfectly safe to wear for people like: nurses, teachers and retail workers who are on their feet all day.
Others wear them because their jobs involve sitting for long periods.
Stronger stockings, such as our Foot Faja Compression Sock, feature specific strengths and lengths based on the particular medical need for the sock.
Medical-grade compression stockings have graduated compression, meaning they are tightest at the ankles and gradually loosen as they go up the legs.
Thigh or waist-high varieties help reduce the pooling of blood in the legs and help prevent lightheadedness or falling when standing up.
Stockings that rise to just below the knee prevent swelling of the lower leg and are tighter than regular socks. They apply controlled pressure to improve blood flow in the veins of the leg.
Non-medical compression socks provide a lighter, more uniform degree of pressure. Personal preferences are also taken into consideration such as: closed or open toes; color and choice of numerous brand names.
It should be noted here that companies who sell non medical grade compression socks are not subject to regulations concerning how much pressure their products provide.
Descriptions such as: “mild,” “moderate” and “heavy” are vague and it is best for this reason to purchase a compression sock that is specifically prescribed to address a medical issue.
6 Myths About Foot Compression Socks
There are a number of persistent myths concerning the usage of compression socks. The most common are the following.
1. Compression Socks Cut Off Circulation
This is a false statement. The only way it can refer to the truth is if the socks are not properly sized or being worn incorrectly.
2. Only Senior Citizens Wear Them
Compression socks are worn by people of all ages, including; athletes, pregnant women and anyone who spends long hours standing or sitting. Advancements in technology have brought about many improvements since the days when our grand mothers wore them to treat varicose veins.
3. They Are Unattractive
At one time there might not have been many options concerning the color and appearance of compression socks, but today that is no longer the case. Many are artistically designed and come in a wide array of colors. They are available in three lengths: knee-high, thigh-high, and pantyhose. They are beautiful, stylish and also available as sheer and opaque.
4. They Are Difficult To Fit
Compression socks come in many sizes so that they can fit any possible lower leg thickness except maybe for Bigfoot.
5. Compression Socks Cause Side Effects
This is partially true because if they are too tight they can cause discomfort and reduced blood flow. They can, however, provide great relief from swelling if they are properly fitted.
6. Compression Socks Can Heal Injuries
This is false. Compression socks are intended to prevent or slow the progression of venous disorders. While they do provide therapeutic support, they cannot heal leg injuries.
What Are The Benefits of Wearing Compression Socks?
Compression socks are a boon to human kind especially those who stand on their feet all day, athletes, and those suffering from specific medical conditions such as: varicose veins; lymphedema and cellulitis, which is a bacterial skin infection caused by lymphedema; plantar fasciitis; chronic venous insufficiency and deep vein thrombosis.
Other benefits include the following:
Improved Blood Flow And Circulation
This is accomplished by the socks gently squeezing the leg to move blood up to the heart. This also prevents blood pooling in the legs and the formation of blood clots.
Decrease Swelling In Legs And Ankles
The pressure compression socks apply to the leg reduces swelling because they are tightest at the ankle and gradually decrease in compression up the leg, allowing for better blood flow throughout the leg.
Reduced Dizziness
Compression socks are very effective in preventing dizziness when you stand up, a condition that is known as orthostatic hypotension.
Decreasing Pain And Discomfort
Compression socks can help reduce pain and discomfort in legs, especially after sitting or standing for long periods.
Improving Lymphatic Drainage
Compression socks improve lymphatic drainage by applying pressure to the leg, which helps move lymph fluid throughout the body. The socks gently squeeze the ankle and gradually loosen as they move up the leg.
Reducing The Risk Of Varicose Veins
Compression socks can help support veins, lessen their pain and prevent the development of varicose veins.
Tips For Using Compression Socks Correctly
The following tips from can help in knowing how to properly use and care for a compression as well as avoid unwanted side effects.
Proper Fitting Requires Exact Measurement
Early in the morning is usually the best time to measure feet because they are less swollen at this time. If legs are severely inflamed, they should be wrapped with compression bandages before fitting, which will keep swelling to a minimum.
Always Wash New Socks And After Every Use
Immersion in cold water makes socks easier to manipulate and put on.
Compression socks should be washed regularly because that helps to maintain their support, elasticity and longevity.
Washing also prevents the accumulation of odor and bacteria. Wash either separately or with garments that are of the same or similar color in a washing machine in a gentle cycle and/or tumble dry.
Never use fabric softeners and spin at a maximum of 1,200 revolutions per minute. Do not ever leave stockings in the sun to dry or on a radiator or heater.
Use Powder Or Lotion
Applying a small amount of powder or silicone lotion to feet or legs helps the socks slide on, but always make sure skin is completely dry because moisture can make it more difficult to pull stockings on.
Dealing With Pain Or Discomfort
Putting on compression socks improperly can be problematic because folds within the socks can cause uneven pressure and pain.
Indications that socks are too tight include: numbness; bruising; alterations in skin color and difficulty in putting them on. They can cut off circulation, which leads to pain, bruising or numbness.
Allergies to the materials used in compression socks; namely, merino wool and nylon, can also be problematic.
Consider Use Of A Stocking Donner
No, this is not a matter of renting out one of Santa’s reindeer, but rather a device that can help with getting a compression sock on, particularly if you suffer from arthritis, which can make it difficult to grasp and pull.
It is also a good idea to sit in a stable chair while putting the socks on.
The Foot Faja Post-Operative Compression Sock
Our Foot Faja Post-Operative Compression sock is designed by our very own, Dr. Abraham Wagner, and was developed for its superior ability to address post-operative issues such as swelling and discomfort.
These socks are versatile and can be used for injury recovery; foot fatigue; post-operative care, pain relief and sports protection.
They are highly effective as trusted tools for seamless reduction of swelling, discomfort and maximum blood circulation, which are crucial for a smooth recovery, and we prescribe them to all of our patients that undergo our minimally-invasive surgeries.
Not to quote the Declaration of Independence, but all compression socks are not created equal.
These refined socks are also comfortable and very easy to slip on and off, which can be a hassle with some others.
This Compression Sock also offers the advantage of resembling a regular stocking, implying they won’t even be noticed by others from whom inquiries as to why they are there might not be desired.
Easy to care for, these socks are washable and longevity-ensured by the quality of their construction materials.
What Customers Are Saying About Our Compression Sock
Two reviewers after undergoing foot surgery commented on how well they reduced swelling and protected their toes from rubbing against their shoes.
Others raved about the velcro top, which guaranteed a good fit without being too tight.
Some praised the superior quality of the materials used to create the boot, which were thick and flexible.
One reviewer commented that although these boots are a bit costly, they are well worth the investment.
Explore more reviews here!
In conclusion
Check out our Foot Faja Compression Socks, and if foot pain is interfering with the quality of your life, call our team or schedule a consultation today.
Our clients hail from all over the nation and beyond, and we are always here to lend a hand, or in this case, a healthy foot!
- Foot Compression Socks – What Are They & What Do They Do? - November 6, 2024