The Essential Guide to Compression Socks: Enhancing Circulation and Preventing Foot and Leg Swelling

In today’s fast-paced world, many of us lead busy lives but aren’t necessarily active, often spending long hours either sitting or standing. Prolonged sitting can impede the healthy flow of blood back to the heart, leading to swollen legs and feet, while standing for extended periods places strain on the joints, also resulting in swelling and fatigue.

Beyond these everyday habits, factors like obesity, pregnancy, or limited mobility after surgery can increase the risk of more serious conditions such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or varicose veins, both of which can obstruct blood flow to the heart and potentially lead to life-threatening complications. Fortunately, one of the simplest and most affordable ways to support healthy circulation and prevent these issues is by wearing compression socks.

However, it’s important to note that compression socks are not suitable for everyone, especially those with certain skin or heart conditions, so it’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using them.

What are Compression Socks?

Compression socks are specially designed hosiery intended to enhance blood flow from the lower extremities back to the heart. These socks are made from a blend of elastic materials that apply pressure to the legs, with the highest level of compression around the ankles. This pressure gradually decreases as the socks move up towards the knees or thighs, depending on the length of the sock. This design helps counteract the effects of gravity, which can cause blood to pool in the lower legs, leading to swelling, fatigue, and discomfort.

Who Can Benefit from Compression Socks?

Compression socks can be beneficial for a wide range of people, particularly those who are at risk of circulation issues or who experience swelling and discomfort in their legs. Here’s a closer look at who might benefit most from wearing compression socks:

Individual with Varicose or Spider Veins - People who suffer from varicose or spider veins often experience swelling, pain, and a heavy feeling in their legs. Compression socks can help reduce these symptoms by improving blood flow and preventing blood from pooling in the veins, which can alleviate discomfort and prevent the progression of vein-related issues.

Individuals Prone to Swelling (Edema) - Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet, known as edema, can result from various factors, including long periods of sitting or standing, pregnancy, or certain medical conditions. Compression socks provide the necessary support to reduce fluid buildup in the lower extremities, helping to relieve swelling and improve comfort.

Pregnant women - Pregnancy can put extra pressure on the veins in the legs due to increased blood volume and the weight of the growing uterus. This can lead to swelling and a higher risk of developing varicose veins. Wearing compression socks during pregnancy can help support healthy circulation, reduce swelling, and prevent the formation of varicose veins.

Individuals with Swelling During Traveling - Long flights or car rides can increase the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) due to prolonged sitting. Compression socks are often recommended for travelers to help maintain circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots forming during extended periods of immobility.

Diabetics - Diabetics are at higher risk for developing circulation-related complications, including peripheral edema, foot ulcers, and DVT. Compression socks can help manage these risks by promoting better blood flow, reducing swelling, and minimizing the rubbing and irritation caused by regular hosiery.

Are Compression Socks for Everyone?

While compression socks can be beneficial in many situations, they are not suitable for everyone. If you have chronic skin or heart conditions, it’s essential to consult your physician before using compression socks. Your doctor can help determine if compression socks are appropriate for you based on your specific health needs.

In particular, individuals who experience swelling caused by arterial insufficiency, or inadequate blood flow in the arteries, should consult a physician before using compression socks. The increased pressure from the socks may further restrict blood flow, potentially worsening the condition. Additionally, if you have skin conditions like cellulitis or severe eczema, the tight-fitting nature of compression socks may exacerbate these issues.

It's crucial to seek medical advice if you have any of these conditions or if you are unsure of the cause of swelling in your legs. Your physician can guide you in choosing the best course of action for your health.

Which Compression Socks Are Right for Me?

There are different levels of compression available, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which indicates the amount of pressure exerted by the socks. Lower levels of compression are often used for everyday wear or mild discomfort, while higher levels, specifically 20-30 mmHg or above, may be prescribed by a healthcare provider for more severe conditions. Understanding how compression socks work and selecting the appropriate level of compression can make a significant difference in promoting healthy circulation and preventing complications.

• 8-15 mmHg: For mild swelling or discomfort and support for prolonged sitting or standing. This level of compression is considered mild and often recommended for people who want a bit of extra support in their daily activities or for those who are new to wearing compression socks. They are easily accessible and can be found in most pharmacies, medical supply stores, or online without needing a prescription.
• 15-20 mmHg: Offers daily relief from slight swelling and is ideal for travel. This compression level is considered moderate and can generally be purchased over the counter and does not require a prescription.
• 20-30 mmHg: This is the most commonly prescribed compression level. It is often used for managing chronic conditions like varicose veins, mild lymphedema, or moderate to severe leg fatigue.
• 30-40 mmHg: This level of compression is used for more serious conditions, such as severe varicose veins, significant edema, or lymphedema. It’s also prescribed for managing DVT and for use after certain types of surgeries, particularly orthopedic surgeries.
• 40-50 mmHg: This is the highest level of compression and is typically used for managing severe cases of chronic venous insufficiency, severe lymphedema, or to treat more serious DVT cases. This level is usually prescribed for very specific medical conditions and is monitored closely by healthcare providers.

Higher compression levels (20-50 mmHg) typically require a prescription and professional fitting to ensure effectiveness and safety.

You should also be professionally measured and fitted for higher level socks, to ensure they will help your condition.

Proper Fitting for Compression Socks

Ensuring that your compression socks fit properly is important to getting the full benefits they offer. An incorrect fit can reduce the effectiveness of the socks and even cause discomfort or other issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide to properly measuring and fitting your compression socks:

1. Measure in the Morning - The best time to measure your legs for compression socks is in the morning, shortly after you wake up. This is when your legs are least likely to be swollen, giving you the most accurate measurements.
2. Measure Ankle & Calf Circumference - Start by measuring the circumference of your ankle at its narrowest point, which is just above the ankle bone. This is one of the most important measurements, as the ankle area requires the highest level of compression. Next, measure the circumference of your calf at its widest point. This ensures the sock will fit comfortably around your calf without being too tight.
3. Consider Your Foot Size - The compression level is not the only thing to consider with compression socks. Measure the length of your foot and compare it to the sizing guide provided by the manufacturer to get the right fit.
4. Check the Fit After Putting On - Once you’ve put on your compression socks, ensure they fit snugly but are not too tight. There should be no excessive bunching or wrinkling, especially around the ankle and calf. The top of the sock should not dig into your skin or cause discomfort. Over time, as your legs may change due to weight loss, swelling, or other factors, reassess the fit of your compression socks. If they start to feel too tight or too loose, it may be time to remeasure and possibly purchase a new pair.
5. Consider A Professional Fitting - For the best fit, especially if you’re using higher compression levels, consider getting fitted by a professional. Many medical supply stores and pharmacies offer this service, ensuring you get the most accurate measurements and the right sock for your needs.

Tips for Putting on Compression Socks

Putting on compression socks can be a bit challenging due to their snug fit, especially if you’re dealing with higher levels of compression. However, following a few simple tips can make the process easier and ensure that the socks fit properly and comfortably.

Start by putting on your compression socks in the morning when your legs are least swollen. To make the socks easier to slide on, consider using baby powder or cornstarch on your legs, which can reduce friction and help the fabric glide more smoothly.

Begin by turning the sock inside out, at least halfway down, and then place your toes into the toe of the sock. Carefully pull the sock over your heel and gradually work it up your leg, unrolling it as you go. Make sure to smooth out any wrinkles or bunches, as these can cause discomfort or uneven pressure.

If you have difficulty pulling the sock up, you can use a sock aid device, which is designed to help with donning compression socks. Additionally, wearing rubber gloves can give you a better grip on the fabric and help you position the sock correctly. Lastly, take your time when putting on your compression socks—rushing can cause the sock to twist or become misaligned, reducing its effectiveness.

Where Can I Buy Compression Socks?

Compression socks are widely available and can be purchased from various sources, depending on your needs and preferences. For general, over-the-counter compression socks with lower levels of compression (such as 8-15 mmHg or 15-20 mmHg), you can easily find them at most pharmacies, drugstores, or at our compression socks page. These are typically located in the health and wellness section, often alongside other foot care products.

For higher levels of compression (20-30 mmHg and above), which often require a prescription, you may need to visit a medical supply store or a specialized retailer. These stores often provide professional fitting services to ensure that the socks you choose are the right size and offer the appropriate level of compression. Some local pharmacies also offer prescription compression socks and may be able to order specific sizes or styles if they are not in stock.

Additionally, many podiatrist offices, clinics, and physical therapy centers carry or can order compression socks for their patients. If you’ve been prescribed compression socks by a healthcare provider, they may direct you to a specific retailer or provide the socks directly.

Compression socks are a practical intervention for enhancing vascular health and preventing potential complications related to poor circulation. Accurate fitting, correct usage, and consultation with healthcare professionals are crucial to achieving the best outcomes.

Disclaimer

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment. The information provided here is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

About author:

Derek Roach is a foot health specialist and has worked in the foot health industry for over 10 years. He is knowledgeable in various foot conditions and shoe features to help with those conditions. Also, he has been quoted on CNN, The Penny Hoarder, HuffPost, Dapper Confidential and other popular publications for foot and shoe-related topics.