What are Compression Socks For Men?

Did you know that compression socks for men are important? We know that when you imagine compression socks, some unattractive images come to mind. And most of them involve little old ladies. But, these days, compression socks for men and women come in all styles!  And, more importantly they support your vein health in many ways. Therefore, we need to take a closer look at the real deal with compression socks.

Who are Compression Socks Designed For?

So many people can benefit from wearing compression socks. People who frequently travel by airplane; pregnant women; people with varicose veins; individuals who must stay on their feet all day for work...even runners looking to boost their performance may be helped by wearing these socks.

For most people, compression socks help improve circulation to fight vascular conditions like lymphedema, varicose veins and/or chronic venous insufficiency. Still, some athletes choose to wear compression socks. And they do so without experiencing vascular issues, because they can help lower limb swelling.

Because wearing compression socks can also speed up recovery time after a hard training session thanks to the boost they give your blood flow. Plus, compression socks can increase your endurance. (They work to keep your legs from getting too tired.) They may also relieve the pain of aching joints, and help support your muscles and improve your balance.

How Do Compression Socks Work Their Magic?

Compression socks are made from stretchy, snug fabric designed to squeeze your legs and ankles tightly. That squeezing action works with the muscles in your calves to keep blood pumping out of your lower extremities and back up to your heart,  improving blood circulation, and cutting back on pooling blood and potential swelling.

Different styles of socks deliver different pressure—and different results—to your body. There are two main types of compression socks: graded and anti-embolism. Our vein specialists can help you decide what type is right for your needs. But anti-embolism socks are meant for patients confined to their beds. So, while these compression socks may be important if you're in the hospital, they probably aren't for you. .

Now, remember: graded compression socks are most common. But there are still choices. Because they come in different lengths, meaning shorter styles will have less of an impact on your legs. They are deliver varying degrees of pressure, measured in mmHg. If your vein doctor has recommended compression socks, it’s important to sit down and discuss the style, length and mmHg levels that your specific condition requires.

How Long Does it Take to See Results?

Remember, everyone responds differently to this kind of therapy. But here are some general expectations you could expect with mild compression therapy. Within a day or so, you should experience relief from swelling.  After one to two weeks, with consistent wearing, tired, heavy legs should feel less fatigued; leg pain should improve; and it may be easier to get through your daily activities. Finally, once you've been wearing them for several months, you may even notice a reduced appearance of spider or varicose veins.

Where Can I Get Compression Socks?

Here's the good news: compression socks are really easy to get a hold of. You can find them in a number of places: the drug store, our offices (or your primary healthcare providers). Heck, you can even get them online!

Bear in mind that online or in stores, you may not enjoy the widest selection available. Also, the pressure rating may not be sufficient to meet your vein health needs. So, what's the best way to get what you need out of your stockings? See your vein specialists and score a prescription for compression socks. That way, you'll be sure that the pair you receive is ideally suited for your specific needs. Plus, with a medical prescription, you may be able to use insurance to cover the cost of your stockings.

Do you have questions about how compression socks can benefit your vascular health? Or how you can obtain a prescription for your compression stockings? Just schedule a consultationschedule a consultationschedule a consultation with one of our Houston and Dallas area vein specialists!