Who Needs Compression Socks and Which Ones to Choose?
Varicose Veins are enlarged, swollen superficial veins that can appear anywhere in the body but most common in the legs. Although these might not cause pain to all, usual symptoms can be experienced like achy and heavy legs, muscle cramping, and swollen feet and ankles.
Wearing graduated compression stockings, together with lifestyle and dietary changes can help ease varicose vein discomfort and prevents symptoms from getting worse. Graduated compression stockings improve blood flow preventing swollen and fatigued legs.
Sports enthusiasts like runners, cyclists, or even swimmers, can benefit in wearing compression socks during their leisure and competitive plays. The amount of pressure from the compression socks provides stability and support to the body part reducing discomfort and fatigue during activities. This promotes better endurance. Compression socks also help in balancing delayed muscle soreness encouraging faster recovery time.
Long hours in the hospital bed puts anyone at risk of developing blood clots in the legs which can be fatal if not prevented. Compression stockings help improve circulation and drainage which are usually compromised during prolonged bed rest. Not only does compression stockings help in preventing secondary complications to occur, it also provides comfort in the legs.
Workers subject to prolonged hours of standing such as in healthcare, retail, food & beverage industries, and service also have a predisposition to adverse health problems including venous insufficiency disorders. Wearing of compression socks are also encouraged to this population as adjunct to interventions like ergonomic workstations, work rotation schedule, and implementation of workplace wellness programs. This provides support and comfort to the legs boosting the workers stamina for work.
Much as there are benefits in wearing compression socks, when worn or prescribed incorrectly, it could also lead to serious skin diseases and blood flow disruptions.
Tips to avoid negative side effects of wearing compression socks:
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Choose the right pressure level. There is a suggested compression level for different body needs.
|
Low Compression/ Class 1 |
<20 mmHg |
|
Medium Compression/ Class 2 |
20-30 mmHg |
|
High Compression/ Class 3 or higher |
<30 mmHg |
*Note: There is no single standard compression guide used worldwide. Compression profiles vary from manufacturer to manufacturer determined based on lab measurements.
- Know the right size for you. Get your measurements to get the right fit for you.
- Know how to properly wear them.
- Do not overwear them. Remember the prescribed hours needed to wear them. Let your skin breathe afterwards.
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Always check for potential allergic reactions. Check the product details on any material used to avoid allergies.