Our approach to well-being and proactive self-care has changed.
Compression socks have transformed from being just a medical necessity for vascular conditions to becoming a daily preventive power boost that enhances energy, balance, and comfort while avoiding varicose veins, blood clots, swelling and pain.
Made for adults of all ages, from athletes, students or professionals that stay in the same position for a long period of time, to travelers who seek comfort while being on a plane or walking long distances.
In this article we want to introduce the importance of compression socks for daily use, address the most common question we've heard, and dive into all the essential information about compression socks: who can benefit from them, how to choose the right ones, and more. Our goal is to provide guidance on this crucial topic for maintaining your health and well-being one step at a time.
What Are Compression Socks?
Compression socks, also known as varicose vein socks, compression stockings, or gradient socks, are specialized hosiery designed to improve blood circulation in the veins, prevent or alleviate health issues, and treat medical conditions.
They serve a dual purpose, acting as both preventive and therapeutic solutions for venous conditions. Compression socks are essential for preventing various disorders and symptoms, including:
- Swelling in the legs or edema caused by fluid buildup in tissues.
- Prevention of blood clots (thrombosis), particularly after surgery or injury when one is less active.
- Alleviation of leg pain and the sensation of heaviness.
- Varicose veins.
- Reduction of muscle soreness.
- Restriction of swelling due to fluid accumulation in the lower legs.
- Prevention of dizziness or falls when standing up (orthostatic hypotension).
- Prevention of "Economy Class Syndrome" during trips lasting over 3 hours, whether by car or plane.
What Do Compression Socks Do?
Compression socks essentially exert external pressure on specific points of the feet and legs, decreasing gradually up to the knee or thigh. This pressure helps blood ascend to the heart more effectively. Additionally, compression socks compress the veins, preventing them from dilating and storing excess blood, thus preventing thrombosis. Veins in the legs have valves inside them that close to prevent blood flow from top to bottom. When veins dilate, these valves do not close completely, causing blood to accumulate in the tissues of the feet and ankles, resulting in characteristic symptoms such as swelling or ankle edema.
Why Use Compression Socks?
Compression socks contribute to better blood flow, benefiting the entire circulatory system. Prolonged sitting or standing can affect blood circulation, making compression socks a valuable tool for maintaining and improving your health consistently.
Who Should Use Compression Socks?
In general, any adult can benefit from compression socks to promote circulation in the legs. However, certain factors such as circulation conditions and using hormonal contraception, pregnancy, obesity, prolonged periods of standing or sitting, genetic predispositions, or being an older adult may determine the need for daily use or specific compression levels. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to determine the appropriate compression level for each individual. For specific situations like travel and improved work performance, starting with 15-20 mmHg compression is recommended.
Are Compression Socks Good for Varicose Veins?
Absolutely! Compression socks help prevent and manage varicose veins and related symptoms of venous insufficiency in the legs by improving circulation, preventing swelling, and reducing the risk of blood clots.
When Should You Wear Compression Socks?
It's advisable to wear them daily, particularly during activities such as:
- Jobs or activities that require prolonged periods of time in the same position.
- During and after surgery.
- During long trips.
- For sports activities.
- Extended walks.
- When you experience swelling or pain in your feet or legs.
- For pregnant women and postpartum.
What Does MmHg Mean in Compression Socks?
Millimeters of mercury (mmHg) indicate the level of pressure (compression) of each gradient sock, designed to treat, prevent, and alleviate symptoms of poor venous circulation and have a therapeutic effect on the legs. To use higher compression grades starting from 20-30 mmHg, consulting a healthcare professional is necessary. Compression levels range from:
- Light or moderate: 15-20 mmHg.
- Medium: 20-30 mmHg.
- High: 30-40 mmHg.
Which Compression Socks Are Best?
There are various styles of compression socks, with one suited to each person based on their lifestyle requirements and preferences. Venasense compression socks are made from an elastic material that allows them to stretch and exert compression on the legs. Materials are distributed differently along the sock to create a pressure gradient, facilitating blood flow from the ankle to the knee.
At Venasense you can find:
- Knee-High Compression Socks for daily Preventive or Therapeutic use. Use them while enjoying your daily activities.
- Ankle-High Compression Socks and Calf-Sleeves for Athletic use. Use them while doing any type of sport for energy, balance and comfort boosting.
- Plantar Fasciitis Compression Socks for Therapeutic use.
How to Choose Compression Socks?
- For everyday prevention and comfort, choose Knee-High 15-20 mmHg Compression Socks.
- Preventive compression socks can be use by any person who doesn't have any pre-existing medical conditions.
- If you have any medical condition ask your doctor and follow medical recommendations if prescribed.
- Choose sock length based on your dressing style, such as toeless, knee-high, thigh-high, or pantyhose.
- Consider the climate when selecting a design.
- Select materials based on their properties and benefits.
- Choose designs that match your fashion preference, whether classic or innovative colors and patterns.
Should You Remove Compression Socks at Night?
It's advisable to remove compression socks before sleeping since lying down or being in a horizontal position helps to restore normal circulation.
Using compression socks at night is recommended if you're having leg cramps at night.
How to Remove Compression Socks?
Some people may experience itching or a tingling sensation when removing compression socks. To avoid discomfort, it's recommended to sit on the bed, place your legs horizontally on the mattress, and start removing the socks from the top, gently pulling them down. This method ensures a smooth decompression process, allowing blood flow to continue normally.
How to Wash and Care for Compression Socks?
To extend the lifespan of your compression socks, it's advisable to wash them by hand in cold water with mild soap and dry them in the shade without hanging. Ideally, you should have at least two pairs of compression socks to wear one while washing the other. The recommended time to replace your socks with new ones is approximately every 5 to 6 months to ensure their effectiveness remains intact over time and with washing.
Where and How to Buy Compression Socks for Varicose Veins?
In our collection at Venasense Store, you'll find various styles, colors and designs of compression socks to choose from, catering to your preferences and needs. You can purchase them directly by adding them to your cart, and if you need more assistance, don't hesitate to contact us at help@venasense.com. We offer shipping nationwide.