Self Help

Compression Socks – Amazing Health Benefits and How to Use Them

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You may think that compression socks and stockings are for the elderly, or only for when you are flying on a plane. Well, I’m here to tell you that compression socks are actually beneficial to adults of all ages through out life, not just when you are popping abroad for a sunny break.

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Now I realise they are not very sexy to look at, but for the good of your health, sometimes you need to look past that and see the bigger picture. You probably are already fully aware of what compression socks are, but just in case lets quickly go over the basics.

What are compression socks or stockings?

Compression socks, also known as compression stockings, are socks of different lengths that have been specifically created to lightly compress your legs slightly more than a standard sock would. The main purpose of wearing these socks is to give the circulation in your legs a bit of help.

Although a simple item, many doctors believe that compression socks aren’t used as much as they should, and they could be very helpful for many people.

What are the benefits of wearing compression socks?

There are lots of scientific studies and research results that show compression socks do work, especially in relation to problems with veins in your legs. For example:

1. Reduction and prevention of swelling – By gradually applying pressure to the legs, compression socks build the tension in the tissues underneath your skin. This helps to decrease any excess leakage of capillary fluid and helps the fluid to be absorbed by your body. As a result, swelling is reduced and prevented from reoccurring.

2. Prevention of vein expansion – These socks can reduce the ability of surface veins to expand and fill with blood. If the blood is allowed to pool in veins it can start to flow backwards and cause congestion. The pooling of blood in your veins can cause a number of problems from vein damage, inflammation, varicose veins and even blood clots.

3. Maintain good blood flow when sitting for long periods of time – A more conventional reason for wearing these types of socks is to help your blood flow when you’re sitting for long periods of time, for example on a long flight. When you don’t get up and move around for a while the risk of blood pooling in your veins is higher.

This risk is not very high if you are a healthy individual, however many people do still experience discomfort or swelling on long flights. Wearing compression socks can help to keep the circulation in your legs moving and reduce the chance of these symptoms occurring.

You might like to try wearing them during the day at work if you sit for long periods of time.

What are the different types of compression socks?

You’ll usually come across two styles of compression socks or stockings. The first one is graduated and the second is anti-embolism stockings. If you are in any doubt about which ones you might need I recommend you speak to your GP or healthcare professional.

Graduated compression socks

You will find that graduated socks are the more common style available and the ones that most people use. These come in a range of different tightness, and they start tightest near the ankle, then they get looser as they go up your leg. Compression socks are usually available in two different lengths, knee-high and thigh-high.

Anti-embolism stockings

Anti-embolism stockings tend to be for a more specific purpose. This type of compression stocking is intended to help your blood circulation. Therefore preventing blood clots, for patients who spend long periods of time in bed, especially those limited to bed following surgery.

When should you wear compression socks?

When to wear them really depends on the person and the reason for wearing them. Some people will be required to wear them all the time, some just during the day and some just for a few hours each day.

If you are not sure when to wear them always check with a healthcare professional for advice.

Is there a downside to wearing compression socks?

Yes there can be disadvantages to wearing these types of socks. Just like with any other medical interventions, they come with both benefits and risks. Here are some examples:

1. Skin Issues

This is a particular concern especially for older adults. It’s feasible for these socks or stockings to create sufficient pressure to break the skin. This in turn could possibly lead to other problems such as sores and infections.

Compression socks can also be the cause of itchy skin, redness, general irritation and possible temporary dents. It is also possible that the wearer could experience chafing, scratching, or bruising, especially on very dry skin.

2. Circulation Issues

Whilst compression socks or stockings are meant to help with your blood flow throughout your body and legs, they can do the opposite if they are the wrong size. If this is the case, it’s possible that they could reduce the blood circulation in the legs.

3. Risks for Particular Populations

Compression socks are not advised for people who do not have adequate arterial circulation. Or for those with serious vascular disease.

As I always say, it is best to check with your doctor if you are not sure what would be the best treatment for you.

There are many brands of compression socks on the market. But one particular one that seems to be very popular here in the UK is Activa Compression Socks and Hosiery. Here is a little bit about them and also a link to Amazon.co.uk if you fancy purchasing a pair.

Activa Compression Socks and Hosiery

Activa Compression Socks are created by L&R Medical UK Ltd.

“Trusted and used throughout the NHS, L&R (formerly Activa Healthcare) are the leader in compression hosiery with the Activa, ActiLymph and Adore ranges and hosiery kits.”

“Chosen for its effectiveness, appearance, comfort and fit Activa and ActiLymph ranges from L&R (formerly known as Activa Healthcare ) are designed to improve poor circulation in the arms or legs.”

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