We’ve all seen them before, whether hanging up in the pharmacy section at the supermarket or on runners jogging past our house compression socks can do several wonders for many people, especially here in Colorado!
Compression therapy is a common form of treatment and recovery for many different injuries and conditions because of it’s effectiveness at increasing blood flow. These specialized stockings gently squeeze your legs to encourage blood flow.
However, many people don’t realize that careful consideration and expert advice should be followed when choosing compression socks. Yes, they are just socks, but if you want to use them safely and get the most benefit from their use, read on to learn!
What Are Compression Socks?
These aren’t your average knee-high socks; they’re actually specialized and are usually tightest around the ankles and become less constrictive as they go up towards the knee.
A common confusion when it comes to compression therapy is the difference between compression socks and sleeves; is there a difference? Certainly!
While both can be helpful, they don’t work the same.
- Sleeves should only be work while active, never on a plane.
- Socks can be worn at any time while exercising or traveling.
Compression socks and stockings stimulate blood flow in the legs and feet, all thanks to gravity. The socks encourage the blood in the veins of your feet to work hard to get back to your heart, which can limit tissue swelling and pain in that part of your body.
There are many reasons why you should seek professional advice before using compression socks. Still, one primary reason is there is a range of compression levels, going from mild to extra firm. It’s best to match the appropriate level for your condition.
Let’s Talk Compression Levels
Take a look at the compression level ranges below.
Mild Compression
15-20mmHg – Prevention and relief of minor to moderate varicose veins, relief of tired aching legs, relief of minor swelling of feet and legs.
Moderate Compression
20-30mmHg – Prevention and relief of moderate to severe varicose veins, treatment of moderate to severe lymphatic edema, and management of active ulcers or post-thrombotic syndrome.
Firm Compression
30-40mmgh – Ulcer management, post-thrombotic syndrome.
If you’d like to discuss the use of compression socks and find out which compression level is best for you, schedule a consultation!
Do Compression Socks Have Sizes?
To the surprise of many, the answer is yes! This is one of the other most important reasons that patients should get professional input before using compression socks.
You must be sized for the appropriate compression sock. At EVEXIAS Medical Denver, we have five certified fitters on staff to ensure our patients will get the right size. Measurements are taken at the calf, thigh, and ankle.
Getting your correct size will ensure that you’re getting optimal use out of your compression socks, whether it’s for medical or athletic purposes.
Who Are Compression Socks For?
The short answer: everyone. It’s true. Compression socks can be effective for just about anybody when used correctly.
However, some people could greatly benefit from compression stockings. As these specialized socks are effective in minimizing symptoms tied to venous insufficiency, some people probably need compression socks more than others.
Here’s a quick look:
- Patients who have undergone sclerotherapy or treatments for veins in the legs.
- Runners, skiers, snowboarders, and other athletes.
- People who spend extended periods sitting, standing, or traveling (vehicle or plane).
- Patients who experience regular ankle swelling or skin discoloration in the lower third of the legs.
- People that experience “heavy” or restless legs.
- Pregnant women.
Do you match any of the above? You don’t need visual signs of vein disease or disorder to receive benefits from compression therapy, but you should speak with your doctor before using them!
If you’re currently using compression socks, you must regularly check and monitor your legs for any changes, such as skin discoloration or irritation.
If you notice something strange, please speak with your provider. This could be a red flag; you have the incorrect size, or your body is battling an infection.
The Best Compression Socks
The market is flooded with options, but in all our years of practice, we have found that CEP socks are among the best! This brand uses a signature medi pressure technology that is crucial to ongoing care and improvement of conditions mentioned above.
We have found that CEP socks offer many benefits, such as:
- Improving blood flow
- Combatting clots and swelling
- Stabilizing muscles
- Decreasing recovery time
If you run, hike, travel often, are strength conditioning, looking to encourage recovery speed, or you have an injury, then you could benefit from the use of CEP socks.
At EVEXIAS Medical Denver, we carry this amazing brand. We don’t have unlimited stock, so colors will vary from online stock, but feel free to drop by our offices and take a look. If you’re looking for something specific, please call ahead to check if we have it on-site for you.
Let the Experts Guide the Way
Whether you’re recovering from a marathon or you’ve had vein treatment, you’ll want an experienced healthcare provider with skill and expertise. Let our experts help enhance your wellness plan with compression therapy.
The EVEXIAS team has years of experience and can help you find the best fit. Schedule your consultation or learn more by giving us a call at (719) 625-8045!