Compression socks increase circulation by applying pressure to the tissues surrounding the blood vessels in the feet, ankles, and lower legs. They are available over the counter or by prescription from a doctor.

Compression socks come in a range of sizes to suit people’s varying needs and preferences, but they often come up to the ankle or knee. They also have different levels of compression, with some being light and others applying more pressure.

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Compression socks and stockings may ease the symptoms of venous and lymphatic diseases, such as:

Compression socks and stockings can also treat varicose veins. According to a 2018 study, graduated elastic compression stockings reduced symptoms such as pain and aching after 1 week of use.

How do they work?

Blood leaves the body’s heart through the arteries and returns via the veins. While a person is standing or sitting, the return journey through the veins of the legs occurs against the force of gravity.

Certain medical issues and lifestyle factors, such as prolonged standing or sitting, can make it even more difficult for blood to circulate properly.

Compression socks improve feet and leg blood flow by applying pressure on the tissue surrounding a person’s blood vessels. As circulation increases and blood is less likely to pool, the risk of adverse health issues such as leg swelling and blood clots decreases.

Anyone at risk for a venous or lymphatic disease may benefit from using compression socks.

Examples include:

  • surgical patients at risk of deep vein thrombosis
  • people who must stand for long periods, such as hairdressers
  • long-distance travelers
  • older adults
  • people living with diabetes

Additionally, according to a 2020 review, athletes also sometimes use compression garments to improve performance and aid in recovery.

Who should avoid wearing them?

Research indicates that elastic compression therapy may be unsafe for people with certain conditions, including:

  • severe peripheral artery occlusive disease, which refers to the narrowing or blockage of the arteries in the legs
  • epifascial artery bypass, a type of heart surgery
  • allergy to compression material
  • severe heart failure
  • severe diabetic neuropathy with loss of sensation
  • severe diabetic neuropathy with skin necrosis risk due to blood vessel damage

The safety of compression socks and stockings for people living with diabetes or peripheral artery disease (PAD) has been the subject of ongoing debate.

Recent research suggests this use may be safe. A study from 2023 found that mild compression stockings may be safe even for those with advanced PAD.

Anyone living with diabetes or PAD can check with their doctor before using compression socks and stockings to determine whether they are safe for their particular circumstance.

There are several types of compression socks and stockings:

  • Graduated compression socks: These feature more compression at the bottom and less at the top and are suitable for people who are ambulatory, which means they are able to walk.
  • Antiembolism socks: These have graduated compression but are suitable for people who are not ambulatory and are experiencing bed rest.
  • Non-medical support socks: These have less compression and may offer relief from leg achiness and fatigue

Compression socks come in different sizes, such as the following:

  • foot only
  • knee length
  • calf sleeves, which start above the ankle and extend upward to just below the knee

Compression stockings can go as high as the thigh.

A person’s doctor can help them decide which length or type to try.

Compression socks are available both over the counter and with a prescription.

Although OTC compression socks are not as strong as those that a doctor prescribes, anyone can try them.

Prescription compression socks and stockings aim to create more pressure against the feet and legs. A person’s doctor can determine the right prescription and length of sock for their needs.

A person’s doctor can suggest the most beneficial way to wear compression stockings according to an individual’s medical needs.

Some people wear them for short durations, while others wear them all day. A person needs to remove compression socks when they shower or bathe.

Whether someone wears compression socks during sleep depends on their doctor’s recommendation. Sometimes, use during sleep can be helpful, while in other instances, removing the stockings before sleep can give a person’s skin a chance to rest.

Compression sock use can vary according to their type. For example, when athletes use them, some types of compression socks are for recovery, while others are for use during exertion.

Compression socks have several benefits because of the way they increase blood circulation.

They decrease the risk of a person’s blood clotting, making it safer to spend extended periods seated while traveling.

A 2018 review found that graduated compression stockings had links to fewer instances of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) following general or orthopedic surgery.

They can also decrease the leg swelling and discomfort due to:

Compression socks and stocking use can reduce the skin changes that occur from chronic venous insufficiency, such as:

  • skin thickening and hardening, known as induration
  • eczema
  • lipodermatosclerosis, where fat under the skin just above the ankle can become hard, resulting in the skin shrinking

A 2023 meta-analysis found that elastic compression stockings may reduce the risk of post-thrombotic syndrome after DVT.

Compression stockings may also increase a person’s parasympathetic nerve activity, according to a 2018 study. Parasympathetic activity has links to functions such as energy conservation, digestion, immune response, and reproduction. The study noted the following differences resulting from compression stocking use:

  • reduced heart rate
  • decreased pain, swelling, and fatigue in the lower limbs

Compression socks may cause adverse effects in some people. Less severe examples include:

Severe side effects are rare and can include:

To prevent side effects relating to compression socks, a person needs to follow the instructions that the doctor or healthcare professional provides.

Compression socks help increase blood flow by creating pressure against blood vessels in a person’s legs and feet.

These socks may benefit people with venous or lymphatic conditions. Additionally, athletes sometimes use them to increase performance and aid in recovery. They can also benefit travelers or people who spend a lot of time sitting or standing while at work.

Weaker compression socks are available over the counter. If a person needs stronger compression, they can ask their doctor for a prescription.