Welcome to a world where comfort meets style, and wellness takes center stage – the realm of compression socks. Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance performance, a frequent traveler combating leg fatigue, or someone simply seeking improved circulation, compression socks might just be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.
What are compression socks?
The word “compression” has been used as a buzzword to market certain products. A true compression garment should be full length (e.g. socks that end at your ankle are not offering the same benefits as a true compression sock that ends at the base of your knee, mid thigh or hips), and have compression that is tighter at the base and loosens off as it goes up your leg (graduated compression). This ensures that the blood is being pushed up against gravity back to your heart to help with pooling in your calves and ankles.
Who can benefit from compression socks?
Compression socks are a great idea for those who do a lot of standing and sitting during the day. This can help prevent venous issues by stimulating the calves to keep sending the blood to your heart. If blood just sits stagnant in our veins, this can cause swelling and other venous issues in our circulatory system. If you find yourself with leg fatigue or swollen and sore legs by the end of the day, you could benefit from compression socks.
Tip: Compressions socks are also a good idea if you are traveling long hours in a car or by plane. It can help you feel less stiff and more refreshed at the end of your journey.
Compression socks can also help those with varicose veins or other venous issues, but it is recommended that you see a physician for a prescription first to guarantee the level of compression is correct for your symptoms.
They can also be used as a recovery tool after a long run, intense workout or a big ski day. They can help ensure that the build up of metabolites in your legs are being circulated through your body to promote growth and repair and reduce any swelling in your legs.
Typically those with diabetes need socks that don’t restrict or cut off circulation. Specific diabetic custom measured compression socks can be made to help alleviate fatigued legs, and still avoid the cutting off of circulation. This may be case specific, so it is recommended that you speak to your physician first before seeing a certified fitter.
How can you find the best compression socks for your lifestyle?
Understanding the fundamentals of compression socks is crucial to unlocking their full potential. Not all compression socks are created equally; socks that you get from amazon or a non certified fitter may not have the graduated compression in the correct places. If you are interested in compression socks, you should see someone who is certified in compression therapy for information about which sock would be good for you. Compression socks could be the small investment with significant returns that you need for your health and comfort. Embrace the science, explore the benefits, and make compression socks a staple in your lifestyle. Your legs will thank you!
Interested in compression socks? Book a complimentary consultation with one of our certified compression sock fitters for more information or to get a pair of compression socks today.
