Compression Socks & Stockings: Benefits, Types, Compression Levels & How to Choose the Right Fit
If your legs feel tired, heavy or swollen at the end of the day, compression socks or stockings may be something to consider. Compression therapy is used by a wide range of people, from those who spend long hours sitting or standing to athletes looking for support during activity and recovery.
At OKAPED, we provide a full range of compression socks, medical compression stockings and athletic compression sleeves. Our certified fitters can help you determine which type, compression level and fit are appropriate for your individual needs.
What Are Compression Socks?
Compression socks and stockings are specially designed to provide graduated compression to the leg. The amount of pressure varies throughout the garment, with the goal of providing consistent support to the lower limb.
Compression products are available in different materials, lengths and compression levels, which means the right product depends on what you are looking to accomplish.
Whether you’re looking for everyday compression socks, medical-grade compression stockings or athletic compression sleeves, proper selection and fit are important.
What Are Compression Socks Used For?
Compression therapy can be used for a variety of situations and lifestyles.
People may consider compression socks or stockings if they:
- Spend long periods standing at work
- Sit for extended periods
- Experience tired or heavy-feeling legs
- Experience swelling in the feet, ankles or lower legs
- Have certain circulation-related concerns
- Participate in running, hiking, skiing or other sports
- Want additional support during or after physical activity
OKAPED also offers sport compression sleeves for the lower legs, thighs and arms.
How Does Compression Help?
Graduated compression provides pressure to the limb and can be incorporated into treatment plans for a variety of lower-limb concerns.
OKAPED notes that compression therapy is often used for circulatory issues as well as muscle fatigue during and after activity. Compression products may also be used as part of managing swelling in certain situations.
However, compression isn’t appropriate for everyone or every condition. If you have unexplained swelling, significant leg pain or a diagnosed vascular or lymphatic condition, it’s important to discuss compression with your healthcare professional before purchasing a compression garment.
Understanding Compression Levels
One of the most important things to consider when choosing compression socks is the compression level.
OKAPED carries a variety compression classes:
15–20 mmHg
A lighter level of compression that can be suitable for some everyday and lifestyle applications.
20–30 mmHg
A moderate level of compression commonly used for medical compression stockings. For example, OKAPED carries Bauerfeind Merino Blend compression stockings with graduated 20–30 mmHg compression.
30–40 mmHg
A higher level of compression that may be appropriate for certain medical applications and should be selected with appropriate professional guidance.
More compression isn’t necessarily better. The appropriate level depends on your individual circumstances and should be determined based on your needs.
Knee-High, Thigh-High or Pantyhose: Which Length Is Right?
Compression stockings are available in several different lengths.
At OKAPED, some options include:
- Knee-high compression socks
- Thigh-high compression stockings
- Pantyhose-style compression stockings
- Open-toe compression stockings
The appropriate length depends on the area requiring compression and your individual needs. Our certified fitters can help determine which option is most appropriate.
Medical Compression Stockings vs. Regular Compression Socks
Not all compression products are the same.
Some compression socks are designed primarily for everyday comfort, travel or athletic activities. Others are medical-grade compression stockings that require more precise measurement and fitting.
At OKAPED, our medical-grade compression stockings are measured and fitted by certified fitters. This helps ensure that the garment is appropriate for your measurements and intended use.
A properly fitted compression garment should provide the intended compression without creating unnecessary pressure points, discomfort or bunching.
Why Proper Fitting Matters
One of the most important parts of choosing compression stockings is getting the right fit.
Simply choosing a compression sock based on your shoe size may not be enough, particularly when you’re looking for medical-grade compression.
An improperly fitted garment can be uncomfortable and may not provide the intended compression. OKAPED’s trained staff can help with proper measurement and selection, and custom compression garments are available for certain needs.
Compression Socks for Athletes
Compression isn’t just for people dealing with swelling or circulatory concerns.
Athletes may use compression sleeves and socks during training, competition or recovery. OKAPED carries sport compression sleeves designed for the lower leg, thigh and arm.
Choosing the Right Material
Comfort is an important consideration when choosing compression socks, especially if you plan to wear them for extended periods.
OKAPED carries compression products in a variety of materials and styles, including options featuring Merino wool.
For example, the Bauerfeind Merino Blend compression stocking contains a high percentage of Merino wool and includes features such as a padded sole, flat toe seam and a relief zone around the Achilles tendon for additional comfort.
Different materials may be better suited to different activities and preferences, so it’s worth discussing your options with a fitter.
When Should You Consider Compression Socks?
There isn’t one answer for everyone.
Some people wear compression socks during the day because they spend hours on their feet. Others use them when travelling, exercising or recovering from physical activity.
If you are experiencing persistent or unexplained leg swelling, pain or other new symptoms, it is important to speak with your physician or healthcare professional to determine the cause before beginning compression therapy.
Once compression has been determined to be appropriate, a professional fitting can help you select the right product.
How OKAPED Can Help
Choosing compression socks isn’t simply about finding the tightest pair available.
At OKAPED, our certified fitters can help you determine:
- The appropriate compression level
- The right stocking or sleeve length
- Whether an athletic or medical compression product is appropriate
- Which materials and features may best suit your lifestyle
- The appropriate size and fit
- Whether a custom compression garment may be required
OKAPED carries compression socks and sleeves from manufacturers including Bauerfeind and Sigvarus, with a variety of styles, materials and compression levels available.
With five Okanagan locations, OKAPED’s team is available to help you find the right compression solution for your needs.