The baby’s weight means more pressure on the legs, while hormonal changes increase blood volume and dilate veins. Pregnant women are especially susceptible to vein disease - in fact, they are six times more likely to get blood clots. The evidence for this is mostly anecdotal, but there is some evidence that the improved blood and lymph circulation could help with faster muscle recovery.
Even office workers who sit for long hours and experience leg fatigue may find that mild compression socks help their limbs stay more energized.Īthletes and runners sometimes use compression tubes on their arms or legs, based on the idea that improved blood flow could enhance performance. Nurses, teachers, salespeople and many other workers are unable to avoid long, painful hours on their feet, and many are delighted by the support compression garments offer. And unless you’re recovering from surgery, you likely shouldn’t wear compression stockings at night - if you’re lying down, your blood doesn’t need assistance to circulate. Wrinkled socks can cause uneven pressure, leading to loss of circulation, and socks that are the wrong size can fall down or cut off blood flow. While compression socks can provide great health benefits, it’s important to wear them properly.
Updated studies suggest that while these garments do improve pain and swelling for the patient, they don’t necessarily prevent the symptoms associated with PTS. Until recently, compression stockings were also commonly prescribed to patients recovering from DVT, who may be at risk of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). Patients at risk - such as those recovering from surgery - may be able to prevent DVT by wearing compression stockings.
#Surprising benefits of compression socks free
If that clot breaks free and move to the lungs, there can be dangerous consequences. When blood pools in the veins, it can clot. They also can support vein recovery after a varicose or spider vein treatment.Ĭompression socks also offer benefits for those at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). While they aren’t a failsafe to prevent varicose or spider veins in the first place, they are still a good investment if your lifestyle puts you at risk. In addition, compression stockings are typically a doctor’s first suggestion for relieving the pain and discomfort associated with varicose veins. If worn regularly, compression socks can help counter the damaging effects of high venous pressure and allow the blood to circulate more freely. This simple but effective method improves circulation, providing relief for a number of conditions.Ĭompression socks can offer immediate benefits, easing swollen legs at the end of the day or preventing tired and achy feet in the first place. Compression socks work by applying pressure to the legs, allowing the blood to move more easily up through the veins, against the force of gravity. Over time, any loss of efficiency in the valves can cause unpleasant symptoms, including swollen ankles, leg fatigue and varicose veins.
#Surprising benefits of compression socks series
Veins have a series of one-way valves to prevent blood from pooling in the legs. The short answer is: maybe! Maintaining vein health is an ongoing process, and for anyone with even minor symptoms, compression socks can prevent deep vein thrombosis and increase comfort overall. As the health benefits of these garments become more widely known, more people are wondering if they, too, should be wearing compression socks. No matter your level of leg discomfort, you can likely benefit from simple - and surprisingly stylish - compression socks.Ĭompression socks have existed for decades, but their use has typically been confined to specific patient populations, those with varicose veins.