Sometimes, swelling accumulates above the sock. Open-toe hose/socks may make monitoring more practical.” Document the color, sensation, swelling and temperature of the toes before putting on the compression socks. “This may make a tourniquet effect, which may interfere with circulation. “Also, watch for bunching of the hose,” he said. Ichinose tells his patients to pay close attention to the color of their toes and report any differences in the color of their toes from the foot or leg to your health care provider. Diabetic patients can be at increased risk of complications, since neuropathy prevents them from feeling the changes in their feet.”ĭr. “The pressure provided by compression socks may make ischemic disease worse. “If you have peripheral vascular disease affecting your lower extremities, you should not wear compression socks,” he said. Ichinose said they are not recommended for some patients. The quality and workmanship make them high-grade.”īefore self-prescribing compression socks, Dr. These companies have made medical-grade compression socks for decades. There are four main companies that have been providing compression socks for decades: Juzo, Sigvaris, Medi and Jobst.
Unfortunately, many times you get what you pay for. “However, they give up quality material and workmanship to be economical. “Many socks are chosen based on economics,” he said. Ichinose said it is best to consider the quality first. Usually, it is because a large leg was placed in a garment too small for the leg.” “Patients commonly complain that the compression socks cut into their leg. “The amount of compression provided by a pair of socks will vary depending on the size of the leg in relationship to the size of the garment,” Dr. Firm compression (30-40mmHg): Ulcer management, post-thrombotic syndrome.Moderate compression (20-30mmHg): Prevention and relief of moderate to severe varicose veins, treatment of moderate to severe lymphatic edema and management of active ulcers or post thrombotic syndrome.Mild compression (15-20mmHg): Prevention and relief of minor to moderate varicose veins, relief of tired aching legs, relief of minor swelling of feet and legs.Compression levels range from mild compression to extra firm compression: If you have any questions about the compression level right for you, talk to your health care provider. Use the sizing guide on the compression sock packaging to find the right fit for you. In the morning before swelling occurs, measure the circumference of your ankle (around your ankle), the circumference of your calf and the length of your calf (from the knee to the heel sitting with your legs at a 90-degree angle). However, you can also measure yourself for compression socks. Your health care provider will advise the compression level you need and measure your leg to ensure you are fitted in a proper compression sock. Ichinose recommends that patients know two important things before selecting compression socks: the amount of compression and the size needed. “Some very economical support hose are not sized by careful measurement of your leg. They are labeled small, medium and large, however the amount of compression provided is not known.”ĭr. “The quality of the material, the sizing, the durability and the amount of compression or pressure the garment provides all culminate in the final product,” Dr. Many people can benefit from compression socks after surgery, during pregnancy or as legs become achy, swollen or heavy feeling.īefore heading out to the store or browsing online, there are some things you should consider to make sure you are getting the maximum benefit from compression socks.įirst, all compression socks are not created equal.
If you have noticed your legs swelling or the appearance of varicose veins, for example, you may wonder if compression socks would be a good idea. The compression of the socks gently pushes blood flow up the leg, helping to prevent swelling and even blood clots.
Compression socks work by promoting improved blood flow in your legs. He once stood on a chair during a presentation to model the compression socks he wears to help improve circulation as he stands throughout day. Vein specialist Eugene Ichinose, M.D., is a firm believer in compression socks – not only for patients but also for himself.
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