Knee-High Compression Socks – 6-Pack Solids (2024)

FAQs

How long should you wear knee-high compression socks? ›

You can wear your compression socks all day long, and you can wear them every day without worries. They're designed to be worn for long periods. However, you should always remove them before you go to sleep.

Thigh length stockings may be more effective than knee length stockings at preventing DVT in surgical patients. However, patients are more likely to wear knee length stockings correctly. Incorrectly worn stockings can be unsafe.

They also massage and gently support the calf muscles (along with the feet and ankles), helping speed up the recovery process after exercise. After a long day on your feet (working, walking, or standing), knee-high compression socks are a great way to get relief and prepare for going out again the next day.

Is there a downside to wearing compression socks? Compression stockings are generally safe but can cause you pain or even cut off your circulation if you don't wear the proper size. The pressure also can cause minor bruising or skin ulcers, and tightly fitting socks also can cause dry skin, redness, and itching.

For Knee-highs: Grasp top of stocking and pull up over ankle and calf. Position tops approximately 1″ below bend of knee.

If your compression stockings are not controlling the swelling in your legs, then it might be that you're not wearing the right size or you're not wearing the right level of compression. If you're in a size that's too big for you, then you may not be getting enough compression from your stocking.

Compression stockings and elevation work together to reduce the venous pressure and increase the return of venous blood to the heart. You certainly cannot elevate your legs at all times. I tell patients to elevate when they can and stockings can be kept on with elevation.

The leg can be so edematous (swollen) that once the sock is on, it will squeeze fluid out of the tissue to above the sock. When the circumference of the leg covered by the sock is reduced, the squeeze becomes less and the remaining fluid in the leg remains.

However, there are times that a compression garment is not ideal. A compression garment should not be worn in the case of circulation disorders in leg arteries or for those with serious heart conditions. Caution is also recommended in the case of sensory impairments due to diabetes and neuropathy (nerve damage).

Luckily, there is a great alternative to compression hosiery - compression wraps! Compression wraps get wrapped around the leg and secured with Velcro straps, whereas conventional compression socks need to be pulled on and up. Wraps can be easily adjusted and are also great for those who need 24-hour compression.

What happens if you leave compression socks on too long? ›

Decreased circulation: Decreased blood flow to the legs for extended periods of time can lead to a condition called "compartment syndrome" which can be serious and even life-threatening. Skin irritation: Prolonged wear of compression stockings can cause irritation, itching and redness on the skin.

The LEVSOX 20-30 mmHg Compression Socks for Women and Men met all these requirements when we tried them ourselves, so we've selected them as our best overall pick. The fit, feel, support, and value were all perfect. They weren't hard to wear; they were about as snug and flexible as tights or leggings.

However, it may take several days of regular use to enjoy a noticeable reduction in swelling. For best results, put on your compression garment first thing in the morning. This is when your limbs are the least swollen. Visible improvement in the appearance of your veins can take up to six weeks to see.

Wearing Compression Stockings

The stockings should feel tight around your legs. You will feel the most pressure around your ankles and less pressure higher up your legs.

Knee-high socks are reported to be more comfortable for the general population, but people with large calves may benefit more from wearing thigh-high compression socks. The reason for this comes down to the tightness of the fabric.

“There is no benefit to wearing compression stockings to bed — when the leg is flat in bed, gravity does not affect blood flow,” Kim said. “That being said, it doesn't hurt to wear them to bed if you please.

If your legs do swell, you'll need to take steps to diminish swelling, such as lying down with your feet elevated or wearing compression bandages overnight. Contact your health care provider if swelling persists for more than a couple of days or to discuss other options if you are having trouble wearing the stockings.

Is it Safe for you to Wear Compression Stockings? Compression stockings are designed to apply graduated pressure to the legs. They enhance blood flow and reduce the risk of clot formation. They are used for preventing venous disorders, aiding post-surgical recovery, and managing swelling and certain chronic conditions.

Wearing compression stockings significantly elevated SBP in the supine position of the hypotensive (SBP≤100 mmHg; n=24) but not normotensive groups (140 mmHg>SBP>100 mmHg; n=58). DBP and HR were not significantly altered in either group.

Is it OK to wear a knee compression all day? ›

If you use a sleeve, you should only wear it when you're exercising or doing something where you need additional support and stability. They aren't designed to be worn all day.

Yes, compression socks are safe to wear all day. In fact, you'll get the most benefits if you wear them all day.

It depends. For regular workout use, knee sleeves can be worn right before, during and a little after the workout. You do not need to wear them throughout the whole day. When you are experiencing pain, swelling, or arthritis in your joint, keeping a compression sleeve on for several hours a day can be beneficial.