Compression socks and stockings have several helpful purposes. They can be used for both medical and non-medical purposes to improve circulation and reduce pain and swelling. While you can purchase compression socks without a prescription, it is recommended that you discuss with your provider your reasons for wanting to wear them and have him work with you to figure out the best kind to get and how often to wear them. At Best Foot Doctor NY we specialize in providing personalized care to each patient. We would be glad to discuss your options with you and help you determine the plan of care best suited to reaching your goals. You may find that wearing compression socks is an affordable solution to your current foot pain.
1. Know Why You Are Wearing Them
When should you wear compression socks? There are several different reasons for wearing compression socks. If you are worried about deep vein thrombosis (DVTs), a large blood clot in the legs then you will need prescription-level gradient pressure stockings. Doctors also prescribe compression socks for patients with limited mobility to reduce the risk of blood clots.
But for people who are not being treated for a medical condition, compression socks can be a helpful means of preventing pain and enhancing performance.
Compression socks that are available over-the-counter are often utilized by athletes to enhance blood and oxygen flow. They can also help prevent foot and leg pain for professionals who are on their feet for long hours by reducing swelling in the feet and calves. Finally, travelers, especially those taking long flights can wear compression socks to encourage blood flow and prevent blood clots during the many hours of sitting still.
Why Do Nurses Wear Compression Socks? Queens Best Podiatrist Explains
Nurses often work shifts that are 12+ hours long and the majority of that time they are on their feet. Compression socks provide pressure that can help decrease normal swelling from gravity and thus decrease pain in the legs and feet, even after a long day of work.
2. Know Your Options
Once you know why you are wearing compression socks you can better narrow down what kind is best for you. There are multiple sizes – customizable both to your foot size and the height of the sock, ranging from footie-style to above-the-knee.
3. Check the Fit
Your compression socks will fit snuggly and may leave an imprint on your legs and feet. This is normal and is not a cause for concern. However, you will want to periodically check that they are not too tight. Do this by making sure your feet are warm and a normal color. If you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation in your legs you will have to take special care that the compression socks do not further exacerbate your condition. Talk to your doctor before beginning any regimen that includes compression socks or stockings.
4. Take Care of the Socks
Compression socks are designed to provide a specific amount of pressure throughout the sock. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for washing and drying them to ensure continued support.
5. Consider Other Options
As you work to reduce swelling and prevent blood clots consider other steps you can take to reach these goals:
- limit salt intake
- move for at least several minutes every hour
- if unable to get up and walk, hold your feet above the ground and move them in a figure 8 pattern every hour
- drink plenty of water
- rest and elevate your feet at the end of the day
6. Talk to Your Doctor | Call Us for Help in Queens or Nearby in NYC
While compression socks do not necessarily require a doctor’s sign off, it is always a good idea to draw upon their medical knowledge when making decisions about your health. They can help you understand what will work best for you. Compression socks can be harmful if worn improperly or for too long at one time so it is wise to have a doctor’s guidance before you begin.
Contact our staff at Best Foot Doctor NY today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how compression socks can help you. With convenient locations throughout New York including: Brooklyn, Queens, Jamaica and Manhattan, we are ready to meet your needs.