5 Myths about Compression Socks
Posted on Tue, Jun 12, 2012 @ 02:11 PM
So your doctor has written a prescription for you to get some compression socks. Now you’re thinking, aren’t those the kind of socks that people say are too hot, too tight, too ugly, too difficult to put on and too expensive. Why would I want to wear them if any of this is true? Well, after 15 years of sizing and fitting people for compression socks as well as being an avid wearer, I’m going to suggest that the negative comments you’ve heard about compression socks are a myth.
Debunking the 5 myths about compression socks:
Too hot! – The reality is that we live in a climate controlled society. Most of us live, drive and work in air conditioned places. If you have to be outside and it’s really hot, it doesn’t matter what you wear, you’re going to sweat. With today’s innovative technology, compression socks are available with many breathable and sheer materials to choose from.
Too tight! – Compression socks are made with “graduated compression”. This means that they will have the most compression at the foot and ankle and less as they get closer to the end (either the knee or thigh). They need to be snug in order to work properly and improve your leg circulation. When fitted properly, compression socks can be more comfortable than regular socks.
Too ugly! – Not any more. The compression sock manufacturers have listened to their customers and now provide dozens of colors and fabrics to choose from. In fact, there are compression socks that look just like athletic socks used in running shoes and work boots, dress socks for men’s and ladies casual shoes, as well as sheer nylons for wearing with high heels.
Too difficult to put on! – They will take a little more effort to put on than most regular socks, but there’s a good reason for that. In order to improve the circulation in your legs, you require some form of compression on your legs. If they are too loose and too easy to put on, then you would not be receiving any benefits from wearing them. Once you are shown how to put them on and try it a few times, it gets easier. There are also rubber gloves that will assist with the process. Everything is difficult the first time you try it.
Too expensive! – All medicine is expensive. That’s right; I referred to compression socks as medicine. For many conditions, compression socks are the only form of treatment (medicine) that will work. Yes, they cost a lot more than regular socks but regular socks won’t help your condition. The reality is that a pair of compression socks will cost you about 62 cents per day. Also, most health care benefit plans will consider coverage for compression socks.
So don’t be discouraged before you even try your compression socks. Make sure you have been properly measured and receive advice on which compression sock model would be best for you. You should also be given some instructions and tips for care and application which will make your compression socks last even longer.