Donning compression socks doesn’t have to be a daily struggle.

Yes, they’re snug. They’re supposed to be – that’s what makes them medically useful. But that’s also why it can be difficult to put on compression socks, especially over the heel and ankle.

Fortunately, we have a variety of aids to help - Check out our donning aids here

Anyone who travels long distances in a sitting position or works a lot standing and sitting is at risk for leg complications. Wearing compression socks or stockings can help prevent these problems and will greatly increase your comfort along the way. Other signs to wear compression stockings, for which it is best to also consult a doctor, are the following: Poor blood flow in the legs, a known risk for blood clots, especially in the legs, a history/family history of deep vein thrombosis, long bed rests, for example after surgery and varicose veins or venous leg ulcers. Compression stockings are often used to relieve a minor issue, before it turns into a major one.

he most beneficial compression socks are “graduated” as opposed to “uniform” in strength. Graduated compression socks are tighter at the ankle than they are at the top. The graduation helps push blood back up toward the heart, aiding in circulation.

Medical compression therapy consists of applying a type of elastic device to exert a controlled pressure. By compressing the leg, the sock or stocking squeezes the vein walls together, thereby improving overall circulation and supporting blood flow back to the heart.

In addition, it helps reduce swelling. Medical compression provides significant relief from leg pain, swelling and heaviness, and other vein symptoms.

Today, stylish casual and dress compression socks and stockings are available in a variety of fibers like cotton, wool, spandex, and nylon. They come in bright colors, patterns, and prints. You will also find them in three lengths: knee-high, thigh-high, and pantyhose. You can choose from sheer and opaque. The options available are so beautiful and stylish, there's really no visible indication of their medical efficacy. You'll simply feel the benefits as you go through your day. Advances in research and design also mean that today's compression socks offer more performance features. You can buy socks that absorb and wick moisture, have antibacterial, odor-reducing properties, and provide irritation-free flat toe seams.

TRUTH: Compression socks are fashionable. Most don't look like compression at all. 

It's true that compression socks help prevent spider veins and varicose veins, and treat edema, among other chronic venous disorders. And they're a prescription item for people with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, phlebitis, and venous leg ulcers. But compression socks are also for everyday wear. They're intended to promote healthy circulation in people engaged in any kind of work or recreation. Anyone with a job that requires sitting or standing for long periods of time, travelers confined to car or plane seats for more than a few hours, and athletes whose sports involve running can benefit from compression. Some people believe compression socks can actually cut off circulation and are therefore dangerous, but properly sized compression socks won't cut off circulation.

TRUTH: Compression socks benefit everyone.

Today, new technology and materials make compression socks more comfortable and functional. However, there are certain standard techniques that make it easy to put them on and take them off. For example, never bunch them up. Instead, grab the heel pocket and turn the sock inside out. Slide the sock halfway onto your foot. Hold both sides of the top band and pull the sock over your heel and up your calf. Adjust the heel pocket and smooth out any wrinkles. The band should be the width of two fingers from the bend of your knee. In addition, there are several accessories such as donning butlers, special rubber gloves, and roll-on adhesives that are easy to use.

TRUTH: Proper techniques make compression socks easier to put on and take off. 

Because compression socks are considered a medical product intended to meet a medical need, they must also meet standards of performance. Compliance with those standards determines what materials are used, the fabric finish, the technique used in weaving, and the level of compression -- all of these things contribute to the cost. Durability, ease of care, and quality assurance are also features of a premium brand like Sigvaris. Sigvaris offers several lines of premium compression socks at various price points, so you can find something affordable.

TRUTH: A wide selection of quality compression socks are affordable.