If you are an avid runnera frequent customer at your local gym or a casual walkerYou may be missing out on the not-so-secret benefits that compression socks have to offer.
Dr Michael Mazera podiatrist and associate of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, told HuffPost that these particular benefits include increased endurance and less lower-extremity discomfort after exercise. he even mentioned studies that show a growing correlation between compression therapy and the professional world Sports.
“After a strenuous workout, high levels of waste products like lactic acid can build up in the blood causing discomfort and decreased performance. Additionally, the body, and muscles specifically, require oxygen-rich blood to circulate through the arteries and veins to help maintain peak performance,” Mazer said.
He explained that compression socks and stockings, which gently squeeze the legs and feet, help improve blood flow through the veins and reduce swelling. This is particularly beneficial during exercise because that pressure can “help remove exercise waste products and aid the muscles’ natural ability to help pump blood back against gravity toward the heart.”
According to Dr. Holly Spohn-Grosspodiatrist and president of the California Podiatric Medical Associationcompression can also play a central role in improving oxygen delivery to the muscles and reducing pain.
“Runners use them for these reasons [as well as] weightlifters while participating in short-burst exercises that also require better blood flow and oxygen delivery,” he said.
Mazer said that while we tend to develop several health conditions that can contribute to leg swelling as we age, older people are certainly not the only age group that can benefit from compression therapy.
“People who are constantly on their feet or walking on their feet for long hours for work or pleasure can develop leg swelling due to the rigors of their activities or even just gravity, regardless of age or health status.” , said.
Mazer also mentioned that in addition to leg swelling, compression socks or stockings can be helpful in treating a wide range of conditions, including varicose veins and lymphedema, and in preventing blood clots.
Spohn-Gross said there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for socks.
“The brand is not as important to me as the pressure,” he said. “Compression stockings range from 8 mmHg to 50 mmHg, with medical levels typically starting at 30 mmHg or higher.” (MmHg stands for millimeters of mercury and is a pressure measurement unit.)
Mazer said that socks with higher pressure levels tend to be worn for more severe symptoms, and while your instinct might be to grab the strongest level of compression possible, you also need to consider how comfortable and free you can move while wearing the stocking. .
If you’re interested in making compression socks your secret workout weapon, don’t miss out on the following list of options that includes pairs in different compression levels, lengths, sizes, and fabrics.
HuffPost may receive a portion of purchases made through links on this page. Each item is independently selected by the HuffPost buying team. Prices and availability are subject to change.
One pair of seamless, invisible running socks
Balega’s No Show Running Socks are sewn with variable tension knit patterns to provide compression and support without restricting movement and are constructed to mimic the design of a running shoe. The fibers themselves have encapsulated silver ions to promote an antibacterial environment for the foot and are available in four different sizes.
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One pair of merino wool ankle compression socks
These merino wool ankle socks are ideal for hiking or camping. (The fine fiber is prized for its ability to regulate temperature and combat odors.) As well as providing a comfortable level of compression, these socks have extra padding in the toes and heel, as well as cuffs that won’t slide down while you wear them. .
A pair of medical grade compression knee high socks.
Receiving more than 52,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, these knee-high socks are made with an athletic knit fabric and feature targeted compression support in the heel, foot, and calf to prevent joint squeeze. Their compression level is 20-30 mmHg, and you can get them in three different sizes.
Strong support graduated stockings for wider calves
Available in sizes up to 7XL, these knee-high stockings, which use doctor-prescribed elastic, have a reinforced heel and toe and a compression level of 20-30 mmHg. They’re also made with moisture-wicking material and use graduated compression therapy, which means stronger pressure is applied to the ankles, with less pressure applied to the top of the sock.
A pair of high-end zippered compression stockings.
Spohn-Gross mentioned that one of the biggest factors that deters people from being consistent about wearing compression socks is that socks with higher levels of pressure tend to be much more difficult to get on and off. These heavy-duty (20-30 mmHg) closed-toe stockings can help with their zippered design that won’t pull on the skin. Made with a reinforced heel and medical-grade materials, you can get these stockings in sizes up to 7XL and in different lengths.
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A mid-level pair of compression socks for every day.
Two pairs of progressive pressure stockings with ankle support
These low-cut socks for everyday activity use a progressive pressure circular design to provide the perfect amount of support concentrated around the ankle, with varying levels of pressure throughout the rest of the sock. They have a compression level of 15-20 mmHg and are made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabric.
Slim Toeless Compression Sleeves
For targeted compression of the ankle and foot, this pair of non-slip activity sleeves, which come in three sizes, offer snug, comfortable support around the tendons and muscles and a pressure level of 20-30 mmHg. The ultra-thin, lightweight fabric is breathable, moisture-wicking and available in eight colours.
A five pack of low level copper infused compression socks
Constructed of breathable mesh and infused with copper fibers intended to promote blood circulation, these over-the-ankle socks provide targeted 8-15mmHg compression around the arch and strategically placed cushioning in the toe box, around the ankle and on the ankle. the heel for comfort.
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