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

FAQs

Should compression socks leave lines? ›

If compression socks leave behind uncomfortable marks from the band by your knee or the indentations from designs severely irritate your skin, you may need to look into a larger size. All in all, compression socks should be comfortable to wear all day everyday, and if they aren't then the fit may be wrong.

The length of the stocking can vary, but knee-high should be sufficient. When the sock extends over the knee, care should be taken to avoid developing wrinkles behind the knee as this can cause irritation to the skin.

Physix Gear Sport Compression socks are our top pick for varicose veins because they feel amazing and provide impressive support without any itchiness or discomfort.

Taking care of your compression socks

You can wear your compression socks all day by putting them on when getting dressed in the morning, and take them off before bed (unless your doctor advises otherwise).

PRO Tip #1 - How tight should they feel? If you've never worn compression socks or sleeves, expect it to feel tighter than you're used to. They should not be too tight as to feel uncomfortable after a while, but not so loose that they feel like any other pair of socks.

Socks leaving marks on the legs is common and does not always indicate an underlying health condition. Sock marks can occur as a result of peripheral edema. Edema is swelling that occurs in the body. “Peripheral” refers to swelling in the outer extremities, such as the legs and arms.

When compression socks are too tight, that's just what they do. They restrict blood flow, rather than increasing it and can cause your skin to change color. Depending upon the degree, tight socks can cut off circulation so much that your skin will become a bright red or even get a bluish hue.

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.

The applied pressure forces fluid away from swollen tissues and sends it up towards your upper body. As a result, this can help improve circulation of blood through your veins, encourage healthy movement of lymphatic fluids and keep muscle cramps at bay.

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.

Can compression socks reverse veins? ›

Compression stockings may not eliminate varicose veins, but they may reduce associated pain and swelling. Examine their legs daily for signs of irritation and damage, and replace compression stockings every 3 to 6 months. Keep the legs and stockings clean and dry to achieve the best results.

Sizing is based on measurements of the legs before treatment as follows: Knee-high socks only require measuring the circumference of your ankle and calf. Thigh-high stockings require measurements of the circumference of your ankle, calf, and thigh, as do waist-high.

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.

Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, it's OK to wear compression socks while you are sleeping, preferably not the same pair you wear during the day. There are even some conditions that are helped by wearing compression socks at night.

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.

To get the most out of your compression stockings, you need to be sure you're wearing them correctly. When you put them on, be sure they're smooth and they lie flat against your skin and avoid bunching. Make sure they aren't too long. Don't fold or roll the tops down, because that can make them too tight.

Compression stockings are designed to provide the strongest pressure around your ankle, with decreasing pressure as the stocking goes up the leg. Putting on, or donning, a compression stocking can be done a few different ways.