Do Compression Socks Really Work?

Do Compression Socks Really Work?

Compression socks are legwear designed to increase blood circulation. They are made to fit tightly on the legs and are typically made of stretchy material that squeezes the legs.

There are a few variations of compression socks. Some examples are compression stockings (tight around the ankle, less tight the further up) and compression sleeves (which consist of a tube that goes on the leg with nothing on the foot).

Compression socks come in all sizes and colors and can vary in price and quality depending on who the manufacturer is.

Who Uses Compression Socks and Why?

For a lot of people, compression socks are a great way to aid blood flow and help ease the pain in the legs.

Individuals with conditions like deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins, diabetes, and circulation problems use compression socks to control their symptoms and the condition’s progression.

Compression socks are also often used by people who belong to occupations that require extensive standing or walking. Some examples include flight attendants, cashiers, and athletes.

They are also used for postsurgical recovery and by pregnant women.

Because compression socks improve blood flow, any individuals with conditions or occupations that inhibit adequate blood flow use them to improve it. Doctors may also recommend compression socks to individuals who are more prone to developing blood clots.

Do They Work?

Because compression socks look a lot like ordinary socks, people assume they don’t work. This is far from the truth! Compression socks can significantly reduce the progression of some conditions by improving blood flow in the legs.

The body’s blood flows from the heart to the rest of the body and back again. When a person has a circulation problem, weak veins, or added pressure because of occupation or lifestyle choices, the blood does not adequately flow back to the heart from the extremities, especially the legs. Because the blood has to fight gravity to travel back to the heart, any impeding condition or circulation issue can worsen the situation.

Compression socks help squeeze veins in the legs, helping blood return to the heart. Compression socks also help the movement of lymph (a fluid found throughout the body) which can help reduce swelling.

Which Compression Socks Should I Purchase?

There are a lot of companies that make compression socks, stockings, and sleeves. They come in all price ranges and qualities so choosing the right one for you can be a little difficult. If you need compression socks for a condition, the best way to choose the right one for you is to talk to a doctor. There are a lot of blood pressure medications on the market – would you choose one for yourself? No! You would have a medical professional recommend the right one for you. The same concept applies to compression socks used for a health purpose. They should also be selected based on a doctor’s recommendations.

If you are looking for an experienced and high-quality vein and vascular medical center that specializes in a variety of vascular and vein-related conditions, Premier Vein & Vascular is the place for you.

Premier Vein & Vascular of Tampa and Largo, Florida excel in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of vascular diseases such as stroke, chronic venous insufficiency, deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins, and poor circulation. To learn more, please contact the vascular and cardiology healthcare professionals at Premier Vein & Vascular by calling 1-888-VEINCARE. You can also use their convenient online appointment request form.

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