What Are Compression Socks?
Compression socks are specially designed hosiery that applies graduated pressure to the legs, tightest at the ankles and decreasing upward. This helps:
✔ Boost blood flow back to the heart.
✔ Reduce swelling & fatigue.
✔ Prevent vein-related issues like DVT and varicose veins.
Who Should Wear Compression Socks?
Medical Uses
- Poor circulation (diabetes, PAD, chronic venous insufficiency).
- Varicose veins & venous ulcers.
- Post-surgery recovery (prevents blood clots).
- Pregnancy-related swelling.
- Orthostatic hypotension (dizziness when standing).
- Frequent travelers (reduces DVT risk on long flights).
- Athletes & runners (speeds recovery, reduces muscle soreness).
- Sedentary jobs (helps with leg fatigue from sitting all day).
Compression Levels Explained (mmHg Guide)
The compression level of socks refers to the amount of pressure the socks apply to your legs and feet. Compression socks are designed to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling by applying graduated pressure, with the highest pressure at the ankle and decreasing pressure as it moves up the leg.
Compression levels are typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and are categorized into different levels:
1. **Light Compression (8-15 mmHg):** Provides gentle compression, suitable for everyday wear, mild swelling, and discomfort.
2. **Moderate Compression (15-20 mmHg):** Offers moderate compression, often recommended for preventing varicose veins, relieving tired and achy legs, and during travel to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
3. **Firm Compression (20-30 mmHg):** Provides stronger compression, suitable for more severe swelling, varicose veins, and managing symptoms of venous insufficiency.
4. **Extra Firm Compression (30-40 mmHg and above):** Offers the highest level of compression, typically prescribed for medical conditions like lymphedema, severe varicose veins, and post-surgery recovery.
Choosing the right compression level depends on your specific needs, medical conditions, and comfort preferences. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health issues, to determine the appropriate compression level for you. Ja-vie offers merino wool compression socks, cotton compression socks, pima cotton compression socks, copper compression socks and split toe compression socks for your selection.