Compression socks

There are quite a few varieties of compression underwear: from socks to overalls. Each type of knitwear of this type is intended for specific purposes and can be used both independently (for the prevention or relief of mild symptoms), and on the recommendation of medical workers (in cases of an obviously pronounced disease).

This type of compression underwear, such as socks, is less popular than the same knee-highs, stockings or tights, but is highly demanded in a medical or sports environment. Socks are used to prevent varicose veins caused by work patterns, increased weight or prolonged physical activity in sports. The principle of operation of compression socks is to squeeze different degrees of blood vessels in the lower leg and prevent their expansion.

For medical reasons, socks are intended for wearing by people in order to prevent or treat existing vascular diseases, in particular, varicose veins.

Usually, the use of compression socks is indicated for those who have just appeared the first signs of impending diseases - edema that occurs towards the end of the day, painful heaviness in the legs, the first spider veins in the lower extremities. However, on the recommendation of a doctor, they can be used in more complex cases: with varicose veins, venous insufficiency, lymphostasis, in the postoperative rehabilitation period.

The preference of athletes is simply explained - such socks fix the foot, giving it the correct position, thereby providing additional support and preventing possible thrombosis resulting from deformation of the veins under heavy loads, for example, when running.

Benefits of wearing compression socks:

• increased blood flow as a result of vascular compression, which provides a greater percentage of oxygen entering the muscles, and as a result, improves their work;
• improved thermoregulation, since there is no free air circulation in compression socks, the muscles are constantly warmed up, and therefore the risk of leg injury is reduced, while moisture and heat are removed through the holes in the weaving of the fabric;
• saving muscle energy due to the fact that the leg, tightly surrounded by the toe, is less exposed to vibration and the risk of sprains;
• protection of the skin, since with the correct size of socks, chafing of the skin is excluded.

There are also contraindications to the use of compression socks, although they are not so great: wearing compression hosiery on the lower extremities is not recommended for patients with diabetes mellitus, dermatitis of various etiologies with vascular diseases, as well as in the presence of open wounds.

Compression socks, like any other compression underwear, are divided into 5 classes according to the degree of compression according to RAL-GZ 387, the German standard for compression hosiery:

• Preventive. They are used by tourists, athletes, people leading an active lifestyle, or, conversely, spending a lot of time in a static mode, on their feet. The need to purchase is determined independently or on the recommendation of a doctor.
• 1 class. The degree of compression is 18-22 mm Hg, used at the first signs of vascular diseases. You can also buy it yourself.
• Grade 2. Compression 23-32 mm Hg They are prescribed only by a specialist in case of identified diseases, for example, varicose veins.
• Grade 3. Compression degree 33-46 mm Hg They are used for diagnosed vein diseases in severe form.
• 4th grade. Super strong compression over 49 mm Hg Prescribed for the treatment of lymphostasis.

Models of compression socks can be worn by both men and women and can be of several types:

• with an open toe - used in cases where a person has a large foot and a short ankle; if the toes are affected by a fungal infection; with deformed toes.
• with an open heel - used in cases of injuries on the heel;
• with a compression elastic - it should be wide, soft and elastic.

You need to choose compression socks in the same way as, in fact, all knitwear of this type. The main criteria for choosing are: purpose and size.

If you proceed from medical considerations, then you just need to determine your size and buy such socks at any pharmacy, the only reason for thinking in this situation will be only the choice of the manufacturer.

Check out the Live Healthy program for advice on choosing compression socks.