Don't fold or roll the tops down, because that can make them too tight. Smooth out the stockings so they lie flat against your skin. If you need the stockings for medical reasons, your doctor will measure your legs and prescribe the right ones for you. If you can stand and move around, graduated compression stockings are better.

Thrombo-embolic deterrent (TED) hose, or anti-embolism stockings, are designed for after surgery and when you need to stay in bed. You'll need higher numbers with a firmer fit to prevent DVT. Mild compression, with lower numbers, is usually enough to keep you comfortable on your feet at work. Stockings should feel snug, but not painfully tight. They also have different levels of pressure, measured in mmHg. For DVT, most stockings go to just below the knee, but you can get thigh-highs and tights, too. Socks and sleeves come in different lengths to cover different parts of your body. The evidence for faster recovery is better, but not enough to make a difference for weekend warriors. Maybe thinking they have an edge gives them one. Studies show the gear has little to no effect on athletic performance, but some people swear by it. They won't be as sore, and they won't cramp as much. And afterward, the beefed-up blood and lymph circulation will help their muscles recover quickly. The theory is that, during activity, better blood flow will help get oxygen to their muscles, and the support will help prevent tissue damage. Some athletes, including runners, basketball players, and triathletes, wear compression socks and sleeves on their legs and arms. Clots also make it harder for blood to flow around them, and that can cause swelling, discolored skin, and other problems. If one forms and breaks free, it can travel with your blood and get stuck somewhere dangerous, like your lungs. They may even stop you from feeling light-headed or dizzy when you stand up.īecause the blood keeps moving, it's harder for it to pool in your veins and make a clot. They can also ease swelling in your feet and ankles as well as help prevent and treat spider and varicose veins. The veins get a boost pushing blood back to your heart.Ĭompression stockings can keep your legs from getting tired and achy. The arteries that take oxygen-rich blood to your muscles can relax, so blood flows freely. The pressure these stockings put on your legs helps your blood vessels work better.

People who spend long stretches of time on airplanes, like pilots.

Those who can't leave their bed or have a hard time moving their legs.

People with or at risk for circulation problems, like DVT, varicose veins, or diabetes.

They can cost from around $10 to as much as $100 per pair, depending on what kind you get. You can buy them at medical supply companies, online, and in many drug stores.

You can buy them over the counter, but if your doctor prescribes them, your insurance may cover the cost. Compression sleeves are just the tube part, without the foot. Graduated compression or pressure stockings are tighter around your ankle and get looser as they move up your leg. What Are They?Ĭompression stockings are specially made, snug-fitting, stretchy socks that gently squeeze your leg. They come in different sizes and strengths, so you or your doctor will need to decide which option will work best. They can also lower your chances of getting deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a kind of blood clot, and other circulation problems. They can lessen pain and swelling in your legs. People wear compression stockings for comfort, to do better in sports, and to help prevent serious medical conditions.īasically, they improve your blood flow.

Compression socks for men