It's About the Socks
EcoSox, in addition to high quality, is focused on socks made from renewable or upcycled resources that will biodegrade in landfills. Our compression socks are made from yarns sourced from bamboo and other eco-friendly materials, as are our dress, hiking, diabetic, and other types of socks. They are designed for comfort and help eliminate odors. However, there many other benefits for people with different needs, who sit or stand for long periods, or who spend time working out.
Before we elaborate on the benefits of compression socks, here is a look at how they work.
What Do Compression Socks Do?
Also known as compression stockings, these socks may stretch from the foot to the knee; some even go up to the thigh. They are generally tighter on the foot and put less pressure on areas higher up. Strong elastic presses on leg, ankle, and foot muscles and veins, creating a pressure gradient that allows blood to flow more easily back to the heart.
Pressure on veins and contraction of calf muscles help move blood out of the legs. Graduated compression works best when one sits or is on their feet all day. The best results are usually seen when the socks are worn daily. For the most part, they can be removed while sleeping. Compression pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg); this is typically between 8 and 40 mmHg (moderate compression is about 15 to 20 mmHg), while compression wear must be properly fitted based on the wearer’s ankle, calf, and thigh circumference, as well as the length of their legs.
Even with their more technical attributes than standard socks, the best compression socks are available in various colors and patterns. They can also be customized for the right fit and the wearer’s taste.
Benefits of Compression Socks
Helping get blood back to the heart allows it to more efficiently pump oxygenated blood back to the body. People who wear compression socks may experience more specific benefits, as they can also:
- Prevent/Reduce Swelling: Improved blood circulation and lymphatic drainage can reduce fluid buildup in the legs. Whether you have swelling in the legs or are prone to it, the socks can provide relief when worn throughout the day.
- Reduce Achiness: Leg swelling is often accompanied by aches and pains. By relieving fluid accumulation and inflammation, the socks can leave you feeling great. They can also help reduce pain associated with various other health conditions or after a workout (faster recovery is possible).
- Prevent Blood Clots: If you are prone to blood clots due to a condition such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), it can help to wear compression socks. They can prevent clots from forming out of pooled blood, which can break off and reach the heart or brain, especially after surgery.
- Reduce Varicose Veins: Socks won’t cure the condition, but they are known to reduce the aching, swelling, and discomfort associated with it. In some cases, they can even reduce the appearance of blue, bulging veins and help with underlying circulatory conditions.
Who Benefits the Most
People who benefit the most from compression socks, such as those from EcoSox sourced from bamboo, merino wool, or recycled yarn, include individuals with poor circulation. They can reduce the risk of developing a blood clot in people who’ve recently had surgery and/or who are on bed rest. In these cases, compression stockings are often prescribed by doctors.
However, you can also voluntarily purchase them; one good reason is if you’re going on a long flight. Sitting in a confined space for many hours increases your blood clot risk. There has been much research to prove that leg compression reduces the risk of developing swelling or DVT during air travel.
Also, aside from helping with varicose veins, these special socks can alleviate the pain, discomfort, and swelling that is associated with leg ulcers. Then again, if you’re just fatigued from standing all day, mild-pressure socks (less than 15 mmHg) can be very helpful.
How to Use Compression Socks
Compression socks can be prescribed by a doctor or you can purchase them in a store, from a medical supply company, or online. It’s best to get a doctor’s prescription if you’re wearing them for a specific condition. There may be guidelines on how often you need to wear the socks, which can range from a couple of hours a day to all day.
Compression stockings should feel firm around your legs, with the most pressure being around your ankles. When putting them on in the morning (when your legs are least swollen), follow these steps:
- Hold the sock from the top and roll it down to the bottom.
- Insert your foot as far as possible and your heel into the stocking’s heel.
- Pull the sock up and unroll it over your leg.
- Smooth out wrinkles or where the sock bunches up.
If it’s difficult to put on the sock, put some lotion on your legs and let it dry. Baby powder or cornstarch can also help the stockings slide up, while you can smooth them out while wearing rubber dishwashing gloves. A stocking donner can be used as well; it can help slide a stocking over your foot. Such a gadget is relatively easy to find at medical supply stores.
Compression socks should be cleaned with mild soap and water after you wear them. You should have multiple pairs, so you have protection while the last ones are drying. Rinse and air-dry them afterward. Also, remember—the support can wane over time, so replace your socks every three to six months.
There are few side effects from wearing socks for compression but if they feel uncomfortable, consult with your doctor. For better results, exercise regularly, which helps make arteries and veins more elastic so they can maintain pressure and blood flow. A proper diet with abundant vitamin C and E can help as well.
Shop at EcoSox
At EcoSox, we manufacture and distribute high-quality socks that are environmentally friendly and suitable for a wide range of purposes. We were originally a brand of the family-owned-and-operated company BBS Hosiery, Inc., founded in 1988 and sold to JAG Companies, Inc. in 2017, which continues our tradition.
Over time, we became more invested in quality and performance, not to mention comfort and eco-friendliness. The result is a line of compression socks suited for diabetic and other health needs, as well as activities such as running, biking, hiking, physical labor, and active sports. We also provide Low-Profile (tab, no show, low cut, and quarter styles), Crew, and Over-The-Calf socks to accommodate different customer needs.
Order compression socks for health, casual wear, dress, and athletic needs on our website. For more information, feel free to contact us online with your questions and comments, or call EcoSox at 937-866-1223 today!