Figs compression socks skin#

“The materials that compression socks are made from are usually thicker than the average sock so they’re protecting the skin and keeping the legs warm and dry. “People might wear them because they feel good and everyone wants that little competitive advantage.”īut she does add that there’s one advantage for athletes to wear compression socks and that’s protection. “It can be about personal preference, too,” she adds. Botek, there have been theories about the effects they have for a runner’s circulation - increasing oxygen delivery to muscles, improving blood circulation, speeding the removal of lactic acid - but, she says we don’t really know yet if that’s the case. In other words, if you wear compression socks for a run, you might have a better run the next time out.Īccording to Dr. “There was an Australian study that looked at runners that found that compression socks could possibly have a positive impact on subsequent running performance,” she said. Botek, while there’s not a lot of evidence to support “a mechanism of action” for athletes wearing compression socks, there has been some evidence that it can help recovery. It’s not uncommon to see athletes in various sports wear different iterations of compression socks or even compression sleeves. Do athletes benefit from compression socks? They’re designed to help maintain circulation, thus preventing blood clots, for bed-bound patients, particularly those confined to bed after surgery.

Figs compression socks full#

Compression socks generally come in two lengths - knee-high and thigh-high - but full compression tights are growing more common with athletes.Īnti-embolism stockings are more specific in purpose. While available in a range of compression tightness, these socks are all tightest around the ankle, getting looser the higher up the leg they go. Graduated compression socks are the more common types you’ll find and what most people use. As always, be sure to check with your healthcare provider with any questions you have. You’ll generally find two types of compression socks: graduated and anti-embolism stockings. Compression socks help keep that circulation going and reduce those symptoms. While the threat of clots isn’t that high if you’re healthy, you’ve probably noticed discomfort or swelling still taking place on long fights. With less movement and weaker circulation, there’s more pooling and retention of blood in the legs which can raise chances of clots. Botek also says that another common reason for wearing compression socks is to aid in blood flow when you’re sitting for long periods of time, like a long flight. If blood pools in the veins of the legs, she says, that can cause a variety of problems including skin changes, damage to vein walls and valves, inflammation of the vein (also called phlebitis thrombophlebitis), varicose veins and even blood clots.īesides venous insufficiency, Dr. Botek says, “It also reduces the ability of superficial veins to expand in order to fill with blood, which prevents that blood from flowing backwards and causing congestion.” The result: reduced swelling and swelling prevention. Botek adds, “and it increases the absorption of this tissue fluid by the capillaries and lymphatic vessels.” “This reduces excess leakage of fluid from the capillaries,” Dr. “Your blood would be retained in the legs and you’d have diminished returns to the heart.”īy gently squeezing the legs, compression socks increase the pressure in the tissues beneath the skin. “That’s the failure of the valves of the veins to function,” Dr. “Nearly 90% of leg disorders originate within the veins,” she notes. Botek notes that there are plenty of studies and evidence that compression socks work, particularly with regard to venous problems of the legs. But, at the same time, it’s a very underutilized option.” In other words, more people could benefit from using them. Botek adds, “It’s a very practical and common thing. Botek says, “is to promote better blood circulation in the legs.”Ī proponent of compression socks, Dr. What are compression socks?Ĭompression socks (or compression stockings) are socks of various length that are designed to gently squeeze legs a bit more than typical socks. So we turned to foot surgeon Georgeanne Botek, DPM, for everything you need to know. Policyįrom their medical advantages to the misconception about age-appropriate use, there’s lots to learn about compression socks.

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