Compression stockings

Compression stockings are long socks that fit tightly around the foot and lower leg. They are very popular among athletes. Older people also often wear them when they have swelling in the legs. The positive effects of compression stockings are not always supported by scientific research.

How do compression socks work?

Body fluid sinks toward the feet and lower legs due to gravity. By moving or elevating the legs, this fluid is transported again and absorbed by the body. If this does not happen, or if you have a disorder of the blood or lymph vessels, the fluid can accumulate and cause symptoms.

Compression socks support the removal of fluid and the waste products contained in it. They do so by, in a sense, squeezing or pushing this fluid upward toward the thighs where the vessels are larger. The socks are very tight at the ankle and the pressure gradually decreases toward the knee. This stimulates the circulation in the lower legs.

What are compression socks good for?

Many benefits are attributed to compression socks. Some examples are:

• Supporting blood circulation and the removal of waste products.
• Reducing swelling in the feet, ankles, and lower legs.
• Preventing or reducing muscle pain and tired legs.
• Damping the vibrations of the lower leg muscles during movement, resulting in fewer muscle and tendon injuries.
• Preventing thrombosis (blood clot) and varicose veins.
• Promoting recovery after exertion.

Who are compression socks suitable for?

Many people can benefit from using compression socks. Many athletes use them during or after exercise. They feel that it improves performance or helps them recover better. Whether this is really the case is still uncertain; scientists have not reached a consensus. There may also be a placebo effect. That means: the wearer of the compression socks believes they work and therefore experiences positive effects.

But people who move little, for example because they have a standing or sitting job, are making a long (air) journey, or are pregnant, can benefit from wearing compression socks. Compression socks are available at sporting goods stores or online in all kinds of trendy colors.

Support stockings

People who suffer from edema (fluid accumulation), or a disorder of the lymph or blood vessels, also wear compression socks. They are then called support stockings. Wearing these support stockings therefore has a medical necessity.

Older people wear them regularly. In addition, due to a condition or age, they often move too little. This worsens the problems. Because support stockings are so tight, the person wearing them often needs help putting them on and taking them off. Support stockings are available in all kinds of sizes but are also often custom-made. That way, they provide the right pressure.