Each style offers its own specific set of advantages and drawbacks.

Designed for everyday use, some graduated socks even sport fun colors and patterns, affording wearers the opportunity to step out in style.Ĭompression socks come in a variety of styles. Graduated compression socks come in a range of styles, including knee-high, thigh-high, and waist-high, as well as varying levels of compression. Graduated compression socksĮasily the most common, not to mention versatile, graduated compression socks are commonly used to prevent and treat spider veins, varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), edema (swelling), and generalized discomfort caused by prolonged standing/sitting or pregnancy. These types of compression socks are designed to fit tightest at the ankle with decreasing levels of pressure going up the leg. As anti-embolism compression socks are designed specifically for bedridden patients, the levels of compression tend to be significantly lower than most graduated varieties. Sometimes referred to as uniform compression socks because they provide equal levels of pressure throughout, TED hose are used almost exclusively post-surgery to assist healthy blood flow during extended periods of immobilization. Anti-embolism or thrombo-embolic deterrent (TED) hose Size, length, and compression levels aside, compression socks generally fall within one of two categories: graduated compression socks and anti-embolism or TED hose. More than just a treatment for existing conditions, the use of compression socks can help keep veins healthy by encouraging optimal circulation, and many people report improved levels of comfort when wearing them. This often leads to blood pooling in the lower extremities, causing swelling, discomfort, and a generalized feeling of heaviness within the legs and feet. When valves don't close, blood is allowed to flow both up and down. Why is this so important? Well, valves that are positioned too far apart and don't meet cannot close properly. This in turn keeps the valves within the veins in alignment, allowing them to open and direct blood flow toward the heart before they snap shut. By hugging the muscles of the foot and leg, compression socks help narrow and straighten vein walls. However, during periods of inactivity (such as prolonged sitting or standing), or in cases where the walls of the veins are weakened, the continuous downward pull of gravity can take its toll. Under normal circumstances, our leg muscles contract, squeezing the veins and pushing blood back up toward the heart each time they do. In simple terms, compression socks give your veins the much-needed support they require to function properly. Modern compression socks come in a variety of strengths and can be used by just about anyone to maintain and improve leg health. Compression socks have been in use for over 160 years.

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