Best Compression Socks For Cold
These socks are thick and heavyweight, so youll really feel the compression on your tendons, but they’ll also keep you warm when temps dip. They come up to your mid-calf to keep the cold out and are made with wool .
Compression: Not provided
Material: 50% acrylic, 30% nylon, 17% wool/ 2% other fibers, 1% spandex
Length: Calf length
Rave Review: I always have cold feet and fingers and so I was determined to find a solution. My husband is from Canada and always wears the right things when we travel to the snow…I do not and I freeze every time. I looked for reviews and found these. I also bought another pair of super thick socks but these were PERFECT! I love their height and weight and they kept my feet warm and comfy throughout all of our sledding, walking, snowmobiling, and fun!
Pros:
If you want to enjoy the benefits of compression socks without emptying your wallet, youll love this simple beige option with over 19,000 positive reviews on Amazon. Youll get three pairs of socks for less than *10 dollars*, and because of the simple coloring you can wear them just about anywhere.
Compression: 15 – 20 mmHg
Material: 85% nylon, 15% spandex
Length: Knee-high
Pros:
- available in many colors and designs
Cons:
- not the best for sweaty feet as customers say they’re not the most breathablek
The Benefits Of Compression Socks For Ankle Injuries
Thanks to the ease of use, comfort levels and specific action on the ankle area, compression socks present a lot of advantages in the case of recovery from ankle injuries. They are not only a handy garment that delivers the compression required, but theyre also stylish, can offer additional benefits, and dont need to stop being used after a certain period of time.
Here are some benefits of using compression socks for ankle injuries:
- They are easy to put on and wear for a longer stretch of time, without side effects and discomfort
- Compression socks come in a wide range of pressure levels, adapted for running or hiking, and can continue to be worn after the initial injury. In fact, they can prevent other injuries in the future as they maintain a good ankle position and adequate blood flow in the lower limbs
- Unlike medical bandages that need to be changed and also applied correctly, compression socks are put on just like normal pairs of socks and dont need to be removed after a specific length of time
- Good-quality compression socks provide welcome relief from pain and swelling immediately upon wearing them
- The stylish ranges available make them a welcome accessory and one that blends in with what you wear, without making it obvious that you have an injury.
If you need more guidance on how to put on compression socks, check out the video below:
What Should You Consider Before Buying
What do you need to look into before purchasing your first pair of compression ankle socks?
Don’t Miss: Pain In Bottom Outside Of Foot
What Style Sock Are You Looking For
Something that goes to your knees or beyond is too much sock for the occasion. In other cases, you may only need compression and extra support in the arch, heel, or low ankle. Ankle socks may offer a solution to any of the aforementioned issues.
These socks sometimes rise above the ankle bone, but many stay below this visible landmark. They have similar pressure levels as taller socks. Some of these designs feature targeted pressure through the arches or heels to relieve plantar fasciitis or support foot injuries. These socks also cover less surface area, making them a cooler option when temperatures rise.
The PAPLUS Ankle Compression Socks feature light, 15-20 mmHg compression in a side-specific design. Each is labeled R or L, which helps the compression fit and target the foots arch better. This compression provides progressive pressure throughout the foot and ankle. Theyre made of a moisture-wicking fabric that improves breathability for more comfortable wear.
What You Need To Know About Compression Socks
Compression socks have been around since the 1950s. They were created by Conrad Jobset: an engineer seeking a cure for his varicose veins. Compression socks have come a long way since then and have many more uses than their original purpose. Of course, compression socks or stockings can still be used to treat varicose veins, but what else can they do?
It might surprise you to find out that even those who don’t have diabetes or vascular diseases can still benefit from them!
Also Check: Dr Mark Miller Orthopedic Surgeon
Who Could Benefit From Wearing Compression Socks
Compression socks can be beneficial for many conditions. Your doctor may recommend you wear compression socks for:
- Boosting circulation in the legs
- Improving lymphatic drainage
- Managing orthostatic hypotension, or low blood pressure when you stand up after a period of sitting down
- Preventing blood from pooling in the leg veins
- Preventing deep vein thrombosis in the legs
- Preventing venous ulcers
- Reducing pain related to varicose veins
- Reversing venous hypertension
Compression socks can be useful for other situations, too:
Are Compression Socks Able To Prevent Injuries
We dont know yet. I could only find one study that tried to investigate this, but it was unfortunately not a very good study.
The researchers sent out a questionnaire to 203 trail runners and asked them about their training, if they used compression socks when training and how many injuries they accumulated during the season. They found that the group of trail runners who wore the compression socks while training reported significantly fewer injuries. The problem with this research is that we cant really tell if this difference was purely down to the compression garments as it could just as easily have been down to training, fitness or experience.
Read Also: Orthopedic Doctors In Morristown Tn
Using Compression For Enhanced Blood Circulation
Compression gear allows oxygen-depleted blood to be pushed away so that it can be replaced with oxygen-rich blood. This process prevents swelling when the correct amount of pressure is applied. It is important to remember, however, that individuals must choose their compression level wisely as too much pressure can cause damage while too little can be ineffective. It is generally advised that healthy individuals not go above a compression level of 30 mmHg without a prescription from a doctor.
What To Consider When Buying Compression Socks
Once youve assessed your medical needs, here are some things to think about when buying your socks.
Type: Compression socks come in a variety of types and styles. Most commonly youll see the knee-high kind, which have graduated pressure going up the full length of the calf, with the firmest pressure around the ankle. You can also find short, ankle-length compression socks that are ideal for foot pain or running, or toe-less ankle-brace versions which can be worn with or without socks. Just make sure the sock fits correctly and doesnt roll at the cuff which could actually create a sort of tourniquet and cut off blood flow.
Strength: Compression socks come in a variety of strengths that are measured in mmHg. Pressure levels on the lower end have 15-20 mmHg, which are great for people who work on their feet all day, travel, or light sports recovery. The next level, 20-30 mmHg isnt prescription grade yet, but can be effective for treating medical issues such as deep vein thrombosis or swelling.
Copper Ions:Copper is thought to help ease pain, but so far research backing up the idea that copper compression socks can help, is limited to zero. Copper is, however, a natural antibacterial agent, so it can help with odor.
You May Like: Homedics Therapist Select Foot & Calf Massager
What Are Ankle Compression Socks
Compression stockings and socks are different from the average CrossFit socks found in your dresser drawer. They are medical equipment used to enhance blood flow in the legs. Some people also refer to them as circulation stockings and socks.
Whenever someone is in an upright position, the blood in the feet and legs must work against gravity to flow back to the heart. In healthy individuals, this is not a problem. For folks with some health issues, however, this fact puts them at risk of developing blood clots in the leg.
Circulation stockings and socks work by squeezing the tissue of the lower legs and feet to stop the pooling of blood. This also efficiently prevents other conditions like swelling, edema, and excess fluid buildup in tissues. In addition, ankle compression socks can provide support for the foot and shin pain as long as they are worn correctly. But theres so much more to them than that!
When Should You Wear Ankle Compression Socks
Whenever possible, you should wear compression stockings rather than going to bed without them. Let them back on as soon as you wake up in the morning. Ideally, you should have at least two pairs of stockings if you wear just one pair, two pairs are appropriate. When you wear a stocking , while another is being washed and dried, you are wearing an in-season stocking.
Don’t Miss: St Francis Orthopedic Urgent Care
How Do Compression Socks Work For Swelling
Compression socks are designed to provide support to your legs and feet while also helping to reduce swelling.If wearing compression socks helps improve circulation, then this could prove useful in reducing swelling from varicose veins-related issues like spider veins as well as improving symptoms associated with chronic venous insufficiency .Heres all you need to know about compression socks and especially how compression socks work for swelling. So lets get into this!
Can Compression Stockings Cause Blood Clots
Similar to how a tourniquet works, the blood flow is hindered. In such situations, the stocking may become the cause of a blood clot, rather than a preventative measure. Compression stockings that are fitted incorrectly, such as too small, rolled, or folded over, may cause excessive irritation to the skin.
Don’t Miss: Golden State Orthopedics Walnut Creek
Choosing The Right Size Of Compression Socks
Most compression socks on the market offer the options of small, medium and large socks.
Take a look at each brands sizing chart to find out which sock size aligns with your shoe size.
It is common for a size medium sock to align with a mens shoe size of 5-9.5 and a womens shoe size of 6-10. A size large sock would fit you if you wear a mens shoe size 9-12 or a womens shoe 10-13.
Be sure to confirm the brand guidelines against their sizing chart before you make your purchase. Socks that fit too large put you at risk of blisters. Socks that are too small may cut off circulation to the foot and lead to discomfort.
Putting Compression Socks On
If you wear compression stockings, you should put on your compression socks or stockings just like any other socks starting with pulling it over your foot and unrolling up your leg. If you have trouble sliding the compression sock on, try using a small amount of talcum powder on your feet or legs. Try to pull the compression sock all the way up, so that the compression is well dispersed across your feet and legs. Try not to let the sock bunch up in any certain place. Your compression socks should fit securely and tightly over your skin but should not be painful.
Read Also: What Does Gout Feel Like In Your Foot
Can Compression Socks Improve Your Running Performance
Heres the deal: The jury is still out on the benefits of compression socks for running performance. Some studies have found a correlation between pressure socks and improved running performance and muscle fatigue, while others have found no difference.
It comes down to what you need and want the compression socks to do. If you have swelling when you run, which is pretty normal, pressure socks can definitely reduce fluid buildup in your feet and legs. That may or may not benefit your running time and recovery. Runners who travel long distances to get to their events, such as marathons or triathlons, may also reap the benefits of compression socks because they can reduce swelling due to prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
However, a fairly universal finding is that if the wearer believes the socks help, they report less fatigue, better circulation, and quicker recovery. For runners, the mental race can be just as difficult as the actual race. If the socks work for you and help with recovery, you may want to consider a purchase.
The Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks provide 20-30 mmHg of pressure, which is adequate for running and other sports, as well as post-workout recovery. Their graduated pressure provides higher pressure through the feet and ankles and gradually decreases toward the top of the calf. These socks come in three sizes and include stay put cuffs to keep the sock in place. They also come in 12 color options.
Top 5 Best Ankle Compression Socks
Looking for the best ankle compression socks and sleeves for running or swelling problems?
Youre in the right spot! In this Athletic Muscle guide, I break down:
- What actually are compression socks for your ankles?
- What are the benefits?
- What do the compression ratings mean?
- How do you actually put on ankle compression socks?
- And our top 5 picks!
Lets take a closer look at compression ankle socks and the kind of benefits that they offer.
| Image | |
|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SB Sox Compression Foot Sleeves
|
|
Were all looking for a way to get an edge, whether were competing in a sports event or simply going for a run around the neighborhood.
Compression socks have become a popular tool for both casual and professional athletes, but do they really offer any benefit for someone who doesnt need them for a medical treatment?
Quick Links
Don’t Miss: Windber Orthopedic Walk In Clinic
Can Wearing Compression Socks Be Harmful
Wearing compression socks can only be harmful if they are worn incorrectly. Since they are tighter than normal socks, if they are not worn properly and they bunch up they can reduce blood circulation and act as a tourniquet. To avoid this, make sure that they are not bunched up in any areas and do not hurt.
Why Should You Use Compression Socks For Ankle Swelling
Have you ever used compression socks for your swollen ankles? Those who use compression socks benefit from the relaxing and healing effects.
Dont worry, most ankle swelling is not related to severe health problems. The swelling of the feet and ankles is a common occurrence.
Lifestyle habits can cause the problem, but compression socks for ankle swelling can be the solution!
It usually doesnt cause problems if it is the result of standing or walking for too long. However, in some circumstances, it may indicate a more serious medical condition.
If you experience any accompanying symptoms that worry you, seek professional medical care immediately.
In medical terms, swelling of the feet, legs, and ankles is called peripheral edema, which means fluid accumulation in these parts of the body.
Recommended Reading: Orthopedic Center Of Palm Beach
How To Choose The Best Compression Socks
With such a wide array of compression socks available, it can be difficult to figure out which ones you should choose. If youre not enlisting the help of your doctor, here are a few factors to think about.
First off, consider the height of the socks. Compression socks/stockings are made in a variety of configurations , says Dr. Levison. In my opinion calf-high are the easiest to put on. More extensive garments are usually not required and may even be more uncomfortable for travel. I also do not recommend the open toe, as often these can lead to fluid accumulating in the open part of the end of the foot.
Next, youll want to figure out the correct amount of pressure. Medical grade compression socks are rated in millimeters of mercury , explains Dr. Gaines. There are usually two numbers, which is the pressure measured at the ankle and the calf. So if it says 20-30mmHg, thats 30 mmHg of pressure at the ankle and 20 mmHg at the calf. The lower the numbers, the milder the compression.
Those without a formal diagnosis of a pathologic problem causing swelling of the legs should typically start with the lighter pair of compression as they will be easier to put on, Dr. Levison advises. The higher-pressure garments are typically designed for those with more advanced symptoms related to swelling. Note that higher-pressure garments may require a doctors prescription.