Compression stockings provide many benefits for those that wear them. Nurses often spend long hours standing and walking around the hospital. As such, they could be at risk for several medical conditions. These issues can be as minor as a nagging pain to more serious problems, such as deep vein thrombosis. Compression stockings help improve blood flow, reducing the risk of any circulation problems.
There are many types of compression stockings available on the market. You can choose from different sizes and compression strengths to see what fits you best. Some may want more pressure at the ankle, while others want stockings that only affect the leg, not the foot. Here’s everything you need to know about compression stockings.
Why Should I Get Compression Stockings?
Compression stockings provide two main benefits. The first is that they add comfort to the leg by helping facilitate circulation. Secondly, they can help leg injuries heal faster through compression and prevent any further problems
Studies show that there is a lesser chance of developing deep vein thrombosis if you wear compression stockings. Compression stockings also help facilitate the healing of leg injuries, with blood flowing freely throughout the area. Some of the injuries and ailments it’s known to relieve include:
- Leg pain and swelling
- Blood clots
- Aching or fatigued legs
- Skin discoloration
Some say compression stockings help reduce fatigue and improve performance among athletes. For nurses, wearing these socks in the medical field can produce similar results.
When choosing compression stockings, it all boils down to preference. Unless a doctor specifically prescribes a certain stocking to use, you’ll have to rely on how they feel when you’re wearing them. Some people prefer a tighter compression, while others want to focus on a specific area like the ankle.
How to Choose the Right Compression Stockings
The first thing you need to consider when checking compression stockings is their compression strength. You’ll often find the strength at anywhere from 15 to 40 mmHg. Here’s a good range to follow depending on your goals:
- 15 to 20 mmHG: Choose a 15 to 20 mmHg for daily use. They’re great when you’re moving around and improve circulation without feeling tight. You can also use them for travel and sports.
- 20 to 30 mmHg: Those experiencing mild symptoms of circulation issues may want to choose a 20 to 30 mmHg. These are often recommended for recovery, though you can also use them for daily wear.
- 30 to 40 mmHg: Those with serious conditions such as severe varicose veins should choose 30 to 40 mmHg compression. These are the recommended ones to wear to treat DVT and other ailments.
When using compression stockings for medical purposes, it’s best to consult your doctor first. Some conditions may not need compression stockings or the pressure might make it worse. It’s best to be safe and know if you’re making the right purchase before committing your money.
Stocking Style and Material
There are several styles of compression stockings to consider. Now that you know the compression strength you’re targeting, you’ll now have to choose which one you prefer:
- Pantyhose Style: Waist high compression stockings connect up to your torso. They’re best if you feel that you also need compression in your hip area.
- Thigh-high: These compression stockings cover your entire leg, improving circulation in your thighs as well as your calves. You can opt for ones covering your feet like socks, or choose one that only covers the leg.
- Knee-high: These stockings stop below the knee. Doctors do not recommend wearing them above the knee as it may increase the risk of injury at the joint. These are the compression stockings to wear to help treat swelling in your lower leg or ankles.
Lastly, you want to choose a good fabric that fits your needs. Here are some options:
- Cotton or wool: Great for controlling moisture and heat from the leg area. Cotton or wool stockings are a good choice if you find yourself sweating and moving around a lot during work.
- Sheer: These have more design options. However, it’s harder to find ones that have stronger compression.
- Opaque: The best choice if you’re aiming for durability. These provide adequate compression and are easier to wear. They’re great if you’re already dealing with an injury and want something easy to put on your legs.
Three of the Best Compression Stocking Brands on the Market
CEP Progressive+
CEP is a brand known for its expertise in medical compression products. It’s one of the most expensive brands on the market, but you get what you pay for. These stockings are incredibly comfortable, and the fabric consists of a composite that adds breathability. There is also a halo band at the edge to keep the stockings from slipping or loosening throughout use. CEP also guarantees that you can use their products 150 times before the compression starts weakening.
Most CEP products are in the 20 to 30 mmHg range. You’ll want to choose CEP stockings if you’re experiencing leg issues or undergoing rehabilitation.
Sockwell Graduated Compression
Graduated compression stockings have a lot more strength focused on the foot and ankle area. Their stockings are great for reducing swelling if you’re already having problems. However, these may not fit everyone because they don’t come in all sizes. Most of Sockwell’s products are below the knee so you can use them for ankle, foot, or calf recovery.
Compression strength is around 15 to 20 mmHg, and they’re a lot more affordable than CEP products. There are also a few design choices available.
Vim & Vigr
When it comes to style options, Vim & Vigr has some of the most variety out of all compression stockings. Their stockings are a great choice if you want to remain stylish even at work. You can also use these stockings daily and get all the benefits from their structured design that provides flexibility while improving circulation in the legs.
Most of their stockings are within the 20 to 30 mmHg range, providing moderate compression. A lot of athletes and nurses use them because of the colorful and patterned designs. This customization makes nurses look stylish while they work or train.
The Bottom Line
Compression stockings provide too many benefits for nurses to ignore. Their ability to protect your legs from various circulation issues while reducing fatigue will give you a boost while at work. Compression stockings are higher priced than regular stockings, but it’s a small price to pay to give you protection while on duty.