Do Compression Socks Work?

Many people ask the question 'do compression socks really work'? Well the simple answer is 'Yes', but the reason why is often overlooked, so let us explain.

Graduated compression socks are specifically made to squeeze the legs at certain points, having most squeeze at the Ankle, which gradually gets less and less, as you go further up the leg. This gentle, gradual pressure helps squeeze blood back into the Deep Vein, so it can successfully circulate around the body, and back up to the Heart.

So how does this help my aching legs? Fatigued legs, heavy-feeling legs, varicose veins, swelling, PoTS and any pains or aches caused by poor venous return (slow return of Blood back to the Heart) can be prevented or relieved by graduated compression. These symptoms can be caused by impaired mobility, by standing on your feet and legs all day and by sitting in the same position for long periods of time. When the pulling and pushing action of your leg muscles are not being used or are restricted, they are not fully capable of helping the leg veins to move Blood back to the Heart. This is where compression socks can step in! They 'compress' the legs in a controlled way, to help squeeze the leg veins, to promote better, blood velocity and effectively, improve the blood circulation.

With all the above in mind, compression socks can work effectively for a variety of people. Thinking about those who have jobs that require sitting for long periods of time, such as people now working from home, lorry drivers and couriers. Compression can help those on their feet all day, such as surgeons, vets and supermarket staff. They are also good for regular travellers, where Flight Socks can be used to help prevent leg fatigue, puffy feet and ankles and thrombosis, and remember that the risk of DVT is not just confined to air travel. Expectant mothers can benefit greatly from wearing Maternity Compression Tights, as these help prevent and relieve varicose veins and swelling, both common symptoms of pregnancy. Additionally, people who are over weight or in an 'at risk' category due to medical conditions can also help heighten their wellbeing by wearing medical stockings or compression socks (always check with a doctor before wearing compression hosiery).

For years, Doctors have prescribed compression stockings for the relief and prevention of varicose veins, venous insufficiency, leg ulcers and legs blighted with symptoms of venous circulatory disorders. Fortunately, over the years, graduated compression socks and hosiery has also fundamentally changed for the better. Manufacturers who specialise in the design of medical grade, compression products can offer fashionable looking compression socks and hosiery for both Men and Women, that are not only practical, but look exactly like your normal, everyday hosiery and socks. No one will ever know the difference.