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Stylish Compression Stockings for your Everyday Needs

Written by Bianca Charles on March 10, 2022

Last updated April 1, 2022

When it comes to modern healthcare products, there are also a lot of myths out there. This is certainly the case for compression stockings.

Many people assume garments like compression stockings are just for older adults with health conditions, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. They’re also suitable for younger people from all walks of life and offer comfort, performance enhancement and blend in well with virtually all your outfits. They’re the perfect wardrobe staple and are super comfortable. Your friends and family may not even realize you’re wearing them!

If compression stockings pique your interest, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re going to dive into the topic of compression stockings to answer all your questions.

Compression Stockings: An Overview

Compression stockings are garments designed to apply pressure to the legs’ veins, muscles, and arteries. They gently squeeze the limbs, applying the most pressure in the ankle area, and gradually decreasing as you go up the leg. The graduated pressure helps push blood from your feet back up to the rest of your body.  The additional elasticity and extra snug fit with compression stockings sets them apart from standard hosiery. Their unique construction also makes them more durable, so you don’t have to worry about runs and holes in your stockings.

The primary purpose of compression stockings is to promote proper blood circulation back towards the heart and prevent blood pooling in the legs. This helps combat tired, achy legs, feet, and ankles, so your legs and feet feel more energized after a long day. Compression stockings also help treat swollen feet, swollen legs and venous diseases like varicose veins. They can even sometimes help with that light-headed feeling you get when you stand up too quickly.

Depending on your needs, you can wear compression stockings for the whole day or several hours – just remember to take them off before bed! Some compression stockings also offer more compression than others. Manufacturers measure compression levels in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), with higher numbers indicating a tighter stocking with more compression.

Compression stockings treat the following: 

  • Sore, tired legs
  • Edema (buildup of fluid in the lower limbs and feet, which causes them to swell)
  • Pregnancy (the hormone fluctuations during pregnancy can cause circulation issues and discomfort in the legs and ankles)
  • Chronic venous insufficiency (ineffective venous walls/valves in the legs)
  • Varicose veins 
  • Phlebitis (vein inflammation)
  • Deep vein thrombosis (blood clot formation in the deepest veins)
  • Lymphedema (damaged or blocked lymph nodes can cause fluid buildup in soft body tissues)
  • Arthritis: Compression stockings can sometimes help reduce swelling and inflammation caused by rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.

 

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Who Can Use Compression Stockings? 

Anyone can benefit from compression stockings! While they’re great for people with swollen feet or venous diseases, it’s time to shake the myth that compression therapy is solely for older people. Younger people with varying lifestyles can also benefit significantly from investing in compression stockings. Compression stockings offer many health benefits and are exceptionally comfortable. You’ll probably even forget you’re wearing them!

Let’s look at who they can help the most:

  • People who spend long hours on their feet: People who work on their feet without many sitting breaks can experience vein inflammation. This in and of itself is painful (think of that tired achy feeling from being on your feet all day). Even worse, if neglected, vein inflammation can ultimately lead to painful varicose veins. The pressure applied by compression stockings counteracts this by helping your veins work against gravity to pump blood from your feet back up to the rest of your body. The increased blood flow also relieves sore feet and ankle swelling. If you’re a teacher, server, or hospital worker, compression stockings will make a big difference in how your legs feel after a long hard day – you’ll never want to go without them!
  • People who sit for long periods: Frequent flyers and flight attendants spend long hours cooped up in airplanes and during stopovers at the airport. Likewise, office workers and people in other sedentary professions spend a large portion of the day sitting down. When we spend too much time sitting, our legs and feet suffer from poor blood circulation. The gentle pressure from compression stockings gives them a much-needed blood flow boost.
  • Pregnant people: Pregnancy puts more pressure on your veins as the uterus grows. Compression stockings can help prevent the risk factors associated with this, such as blood clotting and pooling. Protecting your legs with compression stockings during pregnancy can also reduce swelling in the feet and legs and manage aches and pains.
  • Athletes: The National Library of Medicine notes that compression stockings are becoming more popular amongst athletes, specifically runners. They decrease blood pooling in the calf veins, alleviate muscle soreness, and increase deep venous velocity (boosting blood flow in veins that run underneath muscle tissue). All these benefits combine to provide performance enhancement and improve endurance.

 

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How Do Compression Stockings Look?

Compression stockings aren’t clunky, heavy, uncomfortable devices that make you feel self-conscious. In fact, they’re quite fashionable! They come in many attractive styles and colours that pair with your outfits and look like regular hosiery and socks. Best of all, they don’t tear the same way regular hosiery does (and there’s nothing worse than going out, only to realize your pantyhose have a run!)

Feet First Clinic carries compression gear exclusively from Sigvaris Group. They’re a high-end brand that focuses on curating compression therapy for anyone who needs it. These stockings are not like what you’ll find at the drug store; they’re medical grade and you’ll immediately feel the difference! Let’s look at some types of compression stockings from Sigvaris Group:

Knee-High Compression Stockings

Available in cotton, microfibre, merino wool and nylon, knee-high socks are excellent for everyday wear. They are available in compression levels ranging from 15-20 mmHg all the way up to 50-60mmHg.

For physically active people looking for faster recovery, performance enhancement and muscle pain relief, knee-high socks are the way to go! Knee-high socks are also the best choice for travellers, as socks are much easier to wear with a hassle-free outfit than thigh-highs or pantyhose.

Knee-high compression stockings are available in various fun colours and pattern options. From checkers to solid colours, you’ll be able to find a pair that matches your personality. Several varieties also come with padded soles for extra foot comfort.

Pantyhose / Thigh-High Compression Stockings

It’s wise to look for a compression stocking that reaches your thighs or waist if you need something that benefits the whole leg. This includes knee swelling or a need to boost circulation in the entire leg. Some people also get spider or varicose veins in their thighs, which would require a longer stocking.

A fashionable product that keeps your legs healthy, compression pantyhose are perfect for those on their feet and stuck at their desks. With available compression levels ranging from 15-20 mmHg to 30-40mmHg, they deliver the same benefits of knee-high stocking to the rest of your legs.

Universally pairing well with everyday, professional and dressy outfits, they come in a variety of colours and patterns, making them a great companion to your favourite skirt and dress. Compression pantyhose are also much more durable than regular hosiery, so you don’t have to stress about potentially ripping them. Likewise, they offer excellent tummy control – a healthy alternative to your Spanx.

For extra support during pregnancy, microfibre compression pregnancy pantyhose with 20-30 mmHg compression levels are also available. These exceptionally soft pantyhose help make pregnancy as comfortable as possible by targeting those nine months of discomfort, and the circulation issues that come with it.

Many people prefer thigh-high styles over pantyhose that go above the waist. Available in a variety of style options, thigh-highs offer the same benefits as pantyhose and can be easier to put on. They also add a sexy flair to your everyday style and have a grip top to keep them from sliding down.

Interested In Compression Stockings? 

The exceptional staff at Feet First Clinic can suit you up with the perfect pair of compression stockings! Simply stop by the clinic, and we’ll measure you for the right size and help you find the ideal colour and style based on your preferences and needs. We want to make sure you love the way you look and feel in your compression stockings, so you can get the most wear and benefit out of them.

Still not sure if compression stockings are for you? You can book an assessment with one of our chiropodists if you suspect you need them. It’s always wise to get a recommendation from a healthcare professional before coming in for a fitting.

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About Author: Bianca Charles

With 15 years of dedicated experience in podiatry, Bianca Carter offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise at Feet First Clinic. Throughout her career, Bianca has worked closely with leading chiropodists, continually deepening her understanding of all aspects of foot care.
Learn more about Bianca Charles

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Skin Conditions https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xZ4RQwPmCzg It might seem strange to consider blisters a winter problem, but they can definitely crop up due to cold weather foot care challenges.  Wearing heavy boots and thick socks can cause friction, leading to blisters on your heels or toes. This is why it’s extremely important for boots to fit snugly, but not be too tight. So if the socks you like to wear in the winter are causing your boots to constrict your feet, they don’t fit!  And if your feet are already dry, cracked, or dealing with reduced circulation, they’re even more susceptible to developing painful blisters. Combat this by ensuring your boots and sock combo always fit perfectly together, and opt for moisture wicking socks to go the extra mile.  Another common winter foot problem is athlete's foot. Though often associated with the hot summer months and public swimming pools, athlete's foot is no stranger to winter either. Athlete's foot thrives in wet, damp areas, so instead of crowded public summer pools, fungal infections change their habitat to the wet-from-the-snow environment inside your boots. And keep in mind, you can get athlete’s foot simply by coming into contact with someone who already has it.  When you’re tackling wet feet, whether it’s from snow or rain, you need to dry them thoroughly before putting on warm socks. Athlete’s foot loves moist environments, so making sure your feet are dry is key. If you start to notice itchy or peeling skin between your toes, it’s a sign that athlete's foot might be setting in. Treat it promptly with your Toronto chiropodist, who can provide the right antifungal products. Make sure you also keep your feet clean and dry and avoid sharing shoes and socks to protect your feet from a future infection. 4. Stiffness and Joint Pain https://www.youtube.com/shorts/n46k32OZgco Cold weather tightens your muscles, which in turn can lead to stiff joints. This discomfort can be particularly noticeable if you already have arthritis or any other joint-related issues. Without the right cold weather foot care, your feet can end up feeling stiff, which can affect your overall mobility. To help counteract this, regular stretching and low-impact exercises, such as foot rotations, can keep your joints limber. This season also requires some extra attention to footwear. Choose shoes with ample support to keep your feet cushioned against the impact of walking on hard, cold surfaces. Slippery conditions can further aggravate joint pain because your body works overtime to stay balanced, putting extra pressure on your feet. Adding orthotics or insoles that provide added arch support can also reduce some of this strain and make your steps feel more cushioned and less jarring. 5. Winter Related Foot Conditions Winter brings its own set of unique foot problems, including chilblains, frostbite, and Raynaud’s disease, all of which can make cold weather foot care a bit trickier. Chilblains occur when your feet are exposed to cold, damp environments, causing painful, itchy red patches. This is particularly common in teenagers, or people who quickly reheat their feet after being in the cold, so it’s best to warm up slowly. Frostbite is another concern in extreme cold, as it can severely damage your skin and tissues. Frostbite can occur more quickly than you might expect, especially if you don't protect your feet from the weather. Signs of frostbite include numbness, skin discolouration, and a hard, waxy texture. If you think you may be experiencing frostbite, it’s essential to seek medical help immediately. To prevent frostbite, be sure to layer up and wear weatherproof boots that keep your feet dry and warm. Lastly, Raynaud’s disease can be exacerbated by cold weather. People with Raynaud’s experience an exaggerated response to cold, which restricts blood flow to the toes, leading to reduced circulation and making your feet even more vulnerable. Keeping your feet constantly warm and avoiding sudden temperature changes can help manage Raynaud’s symptoms, but if you experience persistent pain or numbness, you should consult a healthcare provider.
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October 17, 2024
6 Foot Exercises to Strengthen and Protect Your Feet
Studies show that 8 weeks of a solid foot health workout can increase intrinsic foot muscle volumes by up to 22.8%. These are the various small muscle groups located entirely within the foot. They play a key role in stabilizing the arch, supporting balance, and enabling precise movements of the toes. Foot exercises can also help maintain extrinsic muscle strength. These are the muscles that connect to the foot, but are located just outside it, mainly in the lower leg, calf and Achilles tendon area. Foot exercises can also work your toes and the bottom of the foot, soothe pain, strengthen your ankles and prevent foot injuries. This article will list some of the best foot pain relief exercises you can incorporate into your daily routine, starting today! Ball Stretch View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) Simply rolling your back and forth on a small ball can help with plantar fasciitis, arch pain, bottom of the foot pain, and general foot fatigue. You don’t need a therapeutic massage ball—a tennis, lacrosse or golf ball will work.  Sit or stand comfortably and place the ball under your foot. Roll the ball slowly from your heel to your toes, applying gentle pressure for 2-3 minutes. Switch to the other foot. Toe Pulls View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) This exercise can help relieve plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and general foot or calf tightness. Sit with your legs extended in front of you and your back straight. Use your hands to gently pull back on your toes, stretching the bottom of your feet and calves. Hold for 20-30 seconds. Release and repeat 2-3 times, focusing on a slow, controlled stretch. (Optional) Incorporate a resistance band by looping it around your feet and pulling back to deepen the stretch. Toe Flex and Raise View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) Work out your tibialis anterior, improve toe flexibility and balance and strengthen your feet with this fun exercise.  Stand with your feet flat and toes planted firmly on the ground. Lift your heels off the ground, keeping your toes pressed down, then slowly lower your heels back to the floor. Repeat the movement 10-15 times, focusing on control. Ankle Circles View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) This stretch helps strengthen your ankles and can improve general mobility.  Sit or stand with one foot lifted slightly off the ground. Rotate your ankle slowly in large circles, first clockwise, then counterclockwise. Repeat 10 times in each direction, then switch to the other ankle. Calf Stretch on a Step  A great choice for calf strengthening and targeting the extrinsic muscle group, this is a simple stretch that just requires a set of stairs!  Stand on a step with your heels hanging off the edge and hold onto a railing or wall for balance. Lower your heels slowly below the step, feeling a stretch in your calves. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then raise your heels back up and repeat 2-3 times. Marble Pick-Ups View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) This exercise can help with your general coordination and improve toe strength and flexibility, which may alleviate discomfort from conditions like bunions and arthritis. There are no time constraints with this one, simply focus on the task at hand.  Place small objects (like marbles) on the floor in front of you while seated. Use your toes to pick up each object and drop them into a nearby bowl or container. Repeat with both feet, aiming for 10-15 picks per foot.
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September 23, 2024
Preparing Your Feet for Fall: Essential Tips for Comfort and Support
The leaves are starting to change colour and the temperatures are taking a dip! What does that mean for your feet? A lot! Seasonal changes have a big impact on our foot health, which is why it's important to prepare your feet for fall — especially if you have a foot condition. To help you our, we compiled our Toronto foot specialists' top foot care tips for fall to keep your feet comfortable and healthy as you transition into cooler days. From selecting the right footwear to vigilant skin care, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping you cozy and supported. Moisturizing, Skin Care and Protection We all get thirsty, and the same thing happens to your skin — especially when the summer’s humidity is replaced with colder air that prevents it from retaining moisture.  One of the best ways to prepare your feet for fall is by focusing on hydrating your skin. Moisturizing your feet regularly will help you fight painful issues, like cracked heels. Incorporate a rich foot cream, for instance Gehwol’s Salve for Cracked Skin, if you notice dry cracks in your heels. For a more preventative approach, moisturize every day to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft, and then exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. This lets the moisturizer penetrate deeply. For instance you could try Soft Feet Cream from Gehwol; it binds moisture to the deepest layers of the skin and strengthens its natural defence. Learn more with our comprehensive moisturizing guide. https://youtube.com/shorts/JkHzT9z8fiU?si=Ss8SE6Ra--EsmC-9 Fall Shoe Tips and Supportive Fall Footwear Cold air can exacerbate foot pain by messing with your blood circulation. Healthy shoes can help offset this and make a world of difference.  Look for cozy fall boots, ideal for everyday wear. These include ankle boots with sturdy soles, a solid grip to prevent falls, good arch support, and cushioning. Additionally, consider shoes made from waterproof materials, like Gore-Tex fabric, to protect against the elements. Not only will this help with fall foot comfort, but it will also keep your feet dry and warm as the weather cools down. Damp feet can cause issues like blisters, infections and foot odour.  For those extra cold days, you should wear boots with soft materials, like fleece or shearling, for insulation against the cold. You never know when the snow falls and below-zero temperatures will begin, so having a pair of boots like this ready to wear is always wise. Lastly, your fall shoes might work even better if you wear them with custom orthotics. Ask your chiropodist if they can help you.  Our Toronto foot clinic is known for our excellent shoe shopping tips, particularly for the fall and winter. We can also provide a complimentary shoe fitting service for when you don’t know where to start with your fall shoe hunting.  Foot Conditions Requiring Extra Care in Fall If you have arthritis or diabetes, fall foot care is even more important. That's why one of our top fall foot care tips is to pay close attention to your foot health and regularly visit your chiropodist so they can keep an eye on your feet - especially if you have vulnerable feet.  Arthritis sufferers may find that the cold exacerbates joint stiffness and pain. The lower temperatures can cause muscles to tighten, putting additional strain on already sensitive joints. For people with diabetes, the reduced blood circulation can be extra dangerous and worsen the body’s already compromised healing abilities. Ulcers, infections and even frostbite can be big problems during the chilly months.  https://youtube.com/shorts/1aaNATnXvWw?si=quPmbNd2W84aqJXQ
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September 9, 2024
Natural Remedies for Foot Pain: Home Treatments That Work
Sometimes, your feet need a little extra TLC, especially after long days or if you’re struggling with a painful foot condition. While a visit to your local foot clinic is always a good idea, remembering some natural remedies for foot pain can be a lifesaver when you need relief at home. Exercises, Stretches and Yoga Foot pain relief exercises are excellent for addressing discomfort and promoting overall foot health. On top of being effective, they are a holistic, natural foot care remedy.  The best stretches and exercises target the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the feet, helping to improve flexibility, strengthen weak areas, and increase circulation.  When you practice these at home, you are doing your part to manage common issues like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, osteoarthritis, general muscle soreness, and much more. Additionally, they are cost-effective (no expensive gym equipment required!) and designed to accommodate people with disabilities (many feature modifications).  Here are some resources (keep in mind you can often mix and match exercises):  Exercises for top of the foot pain.  Exercises for plantar fasciitis.  Exercises for bunions.  Exercises for arthritis part 1 and part 2.  Exercises for diabetes.  Incorporating yoga into your routine is another effective approach to soothing foot pain. Yoga poses that focus on stretching and strengthening the feet, such as the Downward Dog and Warrior, not only provide relief from current pain but also help prevent future issues by improving foot alignment and balance. Read about the best yoga exercises for your feet here. Foot Bath A long bath at the end of a hard day is one of life’s greatest gifts. But a targeted foot bath is also one of the best natural remedies for foot pain.  One of the key natural ingredients to use in your bath is epsom salt (it’s nothing like the salt you use for cooking!). Research suggests it relieves muscle cramping, prevents blood clots, and boosts nerve function.  Be sure to warm water in your foot bath, as opposed to hot water. Water that is too hot can dry out your skin and cause discomfort during the foot bath. Pad your feet dry afterwards and make sure you don't forget between your toes. Foot Massages and Essential Oils A DIY foot massage is one of the best foot pain management tips, and it’s a treatment you can do 100% from home.  Using essential oils with your massage is a herbal remedy for foot pain you can try. Some studies show that a mix of geranium, lavender, bergamot, tea tree, and eucalyptus essential oils helped reduce pain in people with diabetic neuropathy. Side note: It’s a common misconception neuropathy only causes foot numbness; it can also lead to sharp pains in the feet. These oils may also help with other foot conditions!  Use a carrier oil, preferably coconut oil, and mix it with the essential oils for the best results. Learn how to perform a foot massage here.  https://youtube.com/shorts/2et0ZUSx4OM?si=G7yHRKr3oPWCLMaU
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Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

If you’ve been to the clinic before, chances are you had the pleasure of meeting Carolina! Carolina’s daily goal is going above and beyond to make sure patients are always completely satisfied. Having worked in the podiatry industry for 22 years, Carolina brings a wealth of knowledge pertaining to client service, insurance policies, and procedures.​ She steers the ship to make sure everything runs smoothly on the daily. Carolina is known for spicing up every outfit with her signature costume jewellery.