Compression socks can be classed as a medical apparatus or device to help encourage better circulation and blood flow around the veins in an individual’s lower legs and feet.
This increase in circulation can help improve a couple of medical conditions and prevent medical problems, as well as provide a few other benefits.
In their essence, compression socks are just material that grip your legs a little more tightly, however they are a lot more than that. Here’s an in-depth evaluation on what exactually compression socks are.
How They’re Made
Compression socks are usually made from a blend of fabric materials such as nylon and polyester and can come in many colors, including white, gray and black compression socks.
These materials are used because they are not stretchy and so won’t stretch to fit your leg, but will instead compress it to create the desired effect. They can also be made from rubber as this is a material that will cling onto your leg well.
These socks are offered in a wide array of compression levels and it’s important to make sure you don’t get your socks too tight, as it could block off the blood flow and lead to problems. The unit used to measure the pressure of the stocking or socks is mmHg, the measurement of blood pressure.
When To Wear Them
Compression socks should only be worn during the day and should be taken off before bed so your legs have a chance to relax.
You should not wear them for longer than a few hours at a time, as that can start leading to medical issues. Compression socks are great to wear when running and are also prescribed often after surgery to those who may be on bed rest.
What They Can Do
As well as improve circulation to help people avoid blood clotting, compression socks can also help in other scenarios.
For example, they’re a good solution to help reduce the side effects of varicose veins as although they can’t cure the condition, they can drastically reduce the swelling, redness and pain associated to them.
Compression socks can help combat restless leg syndrome, a condition which gives people a buzzing or aching sensation in their legs. This makes individuals compelled to move their legs. Compression socks provide enough pressure to ease this sensation, helping people ease this feeling.
They’re also good for people who are going on a long distance flight, as they can lower the risk of developing blood clots.
As there’s little room and opportunity to walk around and improve circulation in your legs when on a long flight, these socks can help get the blood pumping to reduce the risks and make for a more comfortable journey.
What They Can Do
As well as improve circulation to help people avoid blood clotting, compression socks can also help in other scenarios.
For example, they’re a good solution to help reduce the side effects of varicose veins as although they can’t cure the condition, they can drastically reduce the swelling, redness and pain associated to them.
Compression socks can help combat restless leg syndrome, a condition which gives people a buzzing or aching sensation in their legs. This makes individuals compelled to move their legs. Compression socks provide enough pressure to ease this sensation, helping people ease this feeling.
They’re also good for people who are going on a long distance flight, as they can lower the risk of developing blood clots.
As there’s little room and opportunity to walk around and improve circulation in your legs when on a long flight, these socks can help get the blood pumping to reduce the risks and make for a more comfortable journey.
Compression socks can also help those who suffer dizziness when they stand up suddenly.
This happens due to a sudden drop of blood pressure as gravity forces blood to your feet, however compression socks can reduce this happening, saving you from nausea and light-headedness.