Fashion trends come and go, but the growing popularity of compression socks seems to be here for the long haul. Although they once had a narrow market consisting of people with medical conditions, athletes, those in need of post-surgical , and the elderly, compression socks have gone mainstream. Since they’re readily available and affordable, everyone from truck drivers and pilots to nurses and remote workers are wearing compression socks for the comfort and health perks they provide. This shift is long overdue, and here are the best reasons everyone should give them a chance.
Compression socks better circulation
Whether your job requires you to sit or stand for long hours, you’re at risk for developing poor circulation, which can cause fluid build-up along with fatigued and achy legs. You may have noticed your legs feeling heavy or even numb, and if so, that’s likely caused by long periods of standing or sitting. Compression socks can improve circulation by gently pushing blood back up your legs to prevent it from pooling in your ankles and feet.
Since poor circulation can cause fatigue, when you improve circulation by wearing compression socks, you’ll feel better all around. The more demanding your job is, the more you’ll benefit from this type of .
Standing for hours is uncomfortable
Even if you don’t suffer from poor circulation, standing for hours on end is uncomfortable. Prolonged standing can cause DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness), which becomes noticeable after around eight hours to a day later. This means the soreness you feel now is from your last shift. And when you’re working full-time, you don’t have enough time to fully recover between shifts. The only option you have is to suppress the potential for soreness as much as possible, and compression socks are one of the best ways to achieve that.
Combined with a good pair of shoes and proper rest breaks, compression socks can alleviate the pain and fatigue that come from standing all day. This is precisely the reason many athletes choose to wear compression garments after competing, whether it’s a pair of socks, pants, or arm sleeves.
If you work in a high-stress environment where you’re required to stand for hours on end, a cushy mat will only help you so much. You’re still going to feel tired and achy at the end of your shift, and gentle compression can make a huge difference.
Some people don’t know they have poor circulation
Everyone knows what it’s like to feel their feet or legs go numb from sitting in the same position for too long, but your extremities shouldn’t go numb from normal activities. However, when this happens, some people are used to it and don’t realize they have poor circulation. When they try compression socks, they’re pleasantly surprised to experience relief.
People are realizing compression is beneficial on flights
Long-haul fliers have been wearing compression socks for decades, but people are starting to realize compression isn’t just for long flights – it’s beneficial no matter how much time you spend at high altitudes. Since high altitudes can inhibit healthy circulation and increase the chance of blood clots, using compression to blood flow is always worthwhile, even on a 45-minute flight.
Doctors are recommending compression socks
When patients come in with circulation issues caused by a variety of factors, doctors often recommend compression socks. Whether it’s for slow lymph caused by edema or to prevent blood clots, compression is one of the first solutions recommended because it’s easy, affordable, and non-invasive. Many people are able to get relief from swelling just with a good pair of compression socks or stockings.
Compression is great for pregnant women
For pregnant women who experience swollen feet from fluid retention, gentle compression keeps everything flowing and alleviates the pain caused by leg cramps and fatigued feet. Compression socks are a simple way for moms-to-be to stay active and comfortable without sacrificing style.
Even gamers like compression socks
People who like to play games have no problem sitting for hours on end, but it can come at a price. Instead of dealing with poor circulation, gamers are starting to use compression socks for long sessions to avoid stiff legs and numb feet.
Compression is a smart choice for comfort
Now that compression socks have become mainstream and look like normal socks, everyone can benefit from the comfort they provide. Whether you’re just trying to prevent numbness, want to alleviate aches from standing all day, or you have circulation problems, compression socks provide affordable and fashionable comfort.
