Are Compression Socks Suitable for Sleeping?
Take a Seat, Fashionistas: It's All About Compression Socks Now
Your granny would be shocked: Compression socks have become the new trend. These leg-squeezing socks are a lifesaver for people with vein issues, long-haul travelers, and even athletes.
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Compression Socks: The Ultimate Buddy
Compression socks can lessen swelling, enhance blood flow, and potentially aid in recovery after athletic feats. But is it wise to catch some zzz's while wearing them?
The Science Behind Compression Socks
Compression socks or stockings offer a snug hug to your legs, relieving pressure akin to a supportive friend. "Compression socks are primarily used as a treatment for folks with chronic venous insufficiency," cardiovascular specialist Douglas Joseph, DO, explains. In this condition, valves in the veins malfunction, causing sluggish blood flow and leg discomfort.
By tenderly compressing your calves, compression socks counterbalance increased vein pressure, resulting in better blood flow. The socks benefit individuals sans vein troubles as well, such as busy workers on their feet all day or frequent flyers stuck in seats for hours.
To Bed or Not to Bed
Can you benefit more by wearing compression socks round-the-clock? Dr. Joseph advises against it. "Benefits occur when you're up on your feet and gravity is lending a helping hand. When lying down, you negate gravity's effect. So there's no need to wear compression socks when resting or catching some Zs."
Compression socks shouldn't be overly constrictive. Giving your legs a break from the squeeze and applying lotion to your skin at night is a good practice. Prolonged wear might put strain on your skin.
However, it isn't harmful to don compression garments during sleep, especially for brief periods, like naps. If you aren't keen on removing and reapplying them before nodding off and upon waking, indulge in a cozy slumber.
Sports Compression Socks: A Gold Mine?
In recent times, compression socks or sleeves, often called "recover socks," have gained popularity among runners and athletes. Some research shows they can boost performance during subsequent runs.
Would extending the benefit period by wearing them following a workout - or even overnight - amp up recovery?
"Recovery" in this context refers to the dramatic improvement during activity, not post-exercise benefits. "They're called recovery socks because they improve circulation to help your muscles recover more swiftly," Dr. Joseph explains. "The impact happens while exercising, rendering continued wear unnecessary."
An Exception to the Rule
There's a unique exception for nighttime compression sock use. Those with vein disease can develop open sores on their legs. Wearing compression socks as they slumber can facilitate healing.
What's the Takeaway?
Except for medical cases, you're usually safe to forgo compression socks once you hit the sack. For athletes or individuals dealing with leg swelling from extended standing or sitting, a wide range of over-the-counter options are at your disposal. They come in a variety of fashion-forward designs ideal for daytime wear.
"You can find different fabrics, thicknesses, and stylish patterns, from lively argyle and stripes to office-friendly trouser socks or sheer stockings. Pair them with formal attire, if you so desire," Dr. Joseph says.
- Compression socks are not only popular among individuals with vein issues, long-haul travelers, and athletes, but they are also sought after in the realm of health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise.
- Science has shown that compression socks can aid in the recovery of athletes after athletic feats, though sleeping while wearing them is not recommended.
- In the field of science, compression socks offer a snug hug to your legs and relieve pressure, making them a useful treatment for people with chronic venous insufficiency.
- When it comes to nighttime use of compression socks, those with vein disease can wear them to help heal open sores on their legs, but for most people, it's safe to remove them before sleeping.
