All your questions about compression socks answered: What they are, who needs them, and why

Compression socks or compression stockings are crucial tools in the prevention and treatment of venous disorders. They work by applying graduated pressure on the lower limbs, reducing swelling and promoting healthy blood flow, said Dr. Pankaj Hans, Associate Director of Minimal Invasive Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Asian Hospital Faridabad.

Adding, Dr Rahul Kumar, Senior Consultant, Joint Replacement & Sports Injury, Paras Health, Gurugram explained that compression socks are specialised hosiery designed to improve blood circulation in the legs and feet. “They are made of elastic materials that provide graduated compression, which means that they exert the greatest pressure around the ankles and gradually decrease pressure up the leg. This compression helps improve blood flow, preventing blood clots, reducing swelling, and alleviating discomfort and fatigue in the legs and feet,” he said, adding that these socks come in different sizes, styles, and compression levels, ranging from mild to extra-firm compression.

They are typically worn snugly but not too tight and should be removed and washed regularly to maintain their effectiveness, he stressed.

How exactly do they work?

Compression socks work by applying graduated pressure to the legs, with the greatest pressure at the ankle and decreasing upward towards the leg and thighs. This pressure helps to promote healthy blood flow and prevent blood from pooling in the lower legs, reducing swelling and discomfort.

“The pressure applied by compression socks can also help to reduce the diameter of the veins, which increases the velocity of blood flow. This increased blood flow can help to reduce the risk of blood clots and other circulatory problems,” Dr Kumar told indianexpress.com.

Some disadvantages of wearing compression socks include itching, redness and patches in skin, inflammation, flare and skin ulcers. (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Who needs such socks?

According to Dr Hans, compression socks are recommended for people who experience leg pain, swelling, or other symptoms related to poor blood circulation. “They can be beneficial for individuals who spend prolonged periods sitting or standing, as well as those who have medical conditions such as varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or lymphedema. Athletes and travelers may also benefit from wearing compression socks to improve performance and prevent blood clots,” he continued.

However, Dr D K Jhamb, Director and HOD, Interventional Cardiology, Sanar International Hospitals, Gurugram, stressed that there are some disadvantages too, especially if worn continuously without proper consultation. These disadvantages, he said, include itching, redness and patches in skin, inflammation, flare and skin ulcers.

“These symptoms can especially be experienced by people with blood pressure issues. Hence, they must only be worn as advised by a doctor and also be careful about the gaps of wearing them. Although they can be worn daily, but in intermittent periods, and should be removed if causing discomfort. However, patients who are advised blood thinners and those with a history of DVT may have to wear them for lifetime,” Dr Jhamb explained.

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