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The Benefits of Compression Stockings

Compression Stockings have various benefits for a broader demographic than you’d think.

They actually can be considered as preventative as well as supportive. This article will break down those who can safely and effectively wear compression stockings, along with the optimal times to wear them.

What are Compression Stockings?

Compression Stockings (or socks) gently apply pressure to your legs down to your ankles promoting better blood flow circulation. Increasing the blood flow from your legs to your heart supports those who deal with Venous Insufficiency and other related poor circulation issues. Blood pools in the legs, leading to varicose veins, cramping, and potential ulcers, are generally seen in older women with a more sedentary lifestyle or a family history.

They also aid in reducing any swelling or inflammation in your legs by adding support where necessary.

Other benefits of Compression Stockings:

  • Reduces swelling and inflammation
  • It helps to lessen the pain as a result of varicose veins
  • Improves lymphatic drainage

Compression Stockings support proper blood flow circulation. As noted, that is something anyone can face, but certain demographics are more susceptible based on their lifestyle or a pre-existing inclination in their genetics.

Who Can Wear Compression Stockings?

The Elderly

If you are 65+ and are more sedentary or have other health issues related to circulation, Compression Stockings are generally advised. As you age, dependent on your self-care, you can start to have swelling in your knees, legs, and ankles. This can become quite painful, hindering your mobility: blood clots and varicose veins and other vein issues like Orthostatic Hypertension.

People with diabetes who suffer from nerve damage and also need assistance with circulation benefit from Diabetic Stockings. However, if advised by a medical professional, some mild compression stockings can also be of service.

It would be best to promote movement as you age as much as you can to keep your blood flowing. With Compression Stockings, you have that additional support.

Nurses

Constantly on their feet for long shifts, nurses are caring for others and on high alert in the event of an emergency. A very common demographic, nurses need that additional support and understand the medical value of compression stockings. Fatigue can lead to heaviness in the legs, and the support of compression helps bring more oxygen to their blood.

Runners and Walkers

Much like the demographics above, runners, walkers, dancers, and other athletes benefit from compression stockings for muscle recovery. Lactic acid builds up in your system from extensive movement, which leads to inflammation. By wearing compression stockings after a long run, more oxygen can flow to your blood cells, which helps to reduce the lactic acid buildup. The faster blood can flow to your legs after movement, the faster you can heal. Wearing compression stockings during exercise is also common, but it’s recommended that momentum be built up over time, much like breaking in a new pair of shoes.

Best Times to Wear Compression Stockings

For Flights

If you are travelling and sitting on a long flight at another altitude, wearing compression socks can benefit your legs to feel refreshed upon landing. 

On Your Feet All Day

Nurses and even other professionals who suffer from fatigue and heavy legs are great to wear throughout your shift. 

After Movement

As part of your recovery, at whatever level of movement, if you have pre-existing blood flow concerns, compression stockings are great to wear during rest. After a warm shower, wearing them after exercise can speed up your recovery process.

When Not to Wear Compression Stockings

  • Don’t wear them overnight – when your legs are at full rest, lying down with compression stockings on is not advised
  • When starting to wear them, gradually increase the time duration to get your body used to them
  • Make sure you seek professional advice to determine what is suitable for you

Looking for Compression Socks to Best Suit Your Needs?

At Feet First, we offer medical advisement on compression stockings and finding the right pair for you. Please call us today and book your appointment at 416.769.3338(FEET)

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At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! We’re Toronto’s one-stop-shop for all your foot-related needs. For 15 years, our staff and licensed chiropodists have been helping people with their feet. From foot care to foot pain to foot products – we do it all! Give us a call to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to help!

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