So your doc told you to try compression socks, or maybe you have been using them for a while. Either way, I think Compression socks or gripping socks for swollen legs feel good, especially when walking or exercising. They make me feel way above average and they produce a bounce in my step. I wondered: How do they work?

Compression socks give a gentle leg squeeze

Did you ever wonder how compression socks work.   The sock, which is used for swollen legs, puts a gentle squeeze on your legs in such a way that you get blood flow from the ankles, calf  back towards your heart.  Even higher stockings help stop pooling of blood in your legs and help when you stand up quickly so you do not get light headed and fall.  They are also good for helping relieve any pain from varicose veins.  As you probably can tell they are not like regular socks or stockings.  The compression sock is sometimes called compression stocking or even pressure socks.  

Socks for swollen legs Sold Everywhere

You can buy a compression sock at many different places and they are sold without a prescription.  If you need a strong compression your care provider can give you a prescription that dictates, strength of compression and the length of the stocking.  

A Prescription for Socks?

If you have a prescription it is typically filled by trained staff at the medical supply store.  that you have provided the prescription.  A key factor for the proper fitting of your stocking is measuring.   

Fitting Socks on swollen legs

Your legs should be measured in the morning when they have not become swollen, yet.  You can use compression wrap to keep you swelling at a minimum before getting the fitting.   The compression wrap is wrapped around the leg and there are different types of wrap.  The tightness of the wrap is subjective and it is possible to be wrapped too tightly.   Trained medical staff should assist you if this occurs.

Lift Recliners to keep legs up

Putting your socks on

A compression stocking or sock is designed to provide the strongest pressure around your ankle, the stocking pressure decreases as it goes up your leg.   For best results of donning your stocking you should insure that your skin is dry.  It is difficult to put on the socks or stocking when your skin is moist such as after applying lotion Medical adherence plays an important role in treatment of diseases..   You want to be sitting in a stable chair and you can gently pull up the unbunched or unroll the stocking if it is rolled.  Either way the tightest fit should be on your ankle.

Once on, check the seams and for any bunching.  You do not want any bunching along your ankles.  You do not want to fold the top of the stocking or sock down, doing so will exert extra compression at that spot and possibly slow the blood flow.  

Replacing stockings

A run, hole or stretched out stocking that bunches up, needs to be replaced. They no longer working as designed.  

Hours the compression socks are worn 

If you have a prescription you instructions should include when to start and end your wear time. It is common to be told to wear them from first thing in morning until you go to sleep.   It is also common to be told to wear them all the time.  Your health care provided will prescribe the amount of time.  Obviously, if you wear them less than prescribed you take the chance of getting swollen and the stocking help prevent that from happening.    

It is strongly recommended to check your legs daily, you are inspecting for any skin redness, or irritation.  Actually, any area of skin that has changed.  They could be signs of incorrect fittings or maybe even an infection.  As soon as you recognize an issue, report to your healthcare provider immediately.

You may also find our article on Lymphedema and circulation helpful. You may also like to read about keeping your feet above your head.