Best Compression Socks for Nurses {updated}
Nurses spend half of their lives on their feet. A little discomfort can make situations worse, resulting in low productivity. So, shoes and socks play a very important role in their well-being and good performance. A good pair of shoes is essential for the required comfort and support but if combined with the right pair of socks, then their lives will be changed for the better. Compression socks improve the blood flow throughout the legs and prevent lactic acid build-up in the muscles. So, it prevents foot swelling, pain, stiffness, and cramping. Thus, compression socks help you to achieve a higher ‘good-health’ level. It eases your standing and walking and makes your moving experience painless and comforting. Therefore, you need to make sure that you are aware of the ins and outs of choosing a compression sock before picking up one fir yourself.
A good pair of compression sock is very important for any nurse. But with the advancement of technology, we have hundreds of options to choose from. To help you with narrowing down your options, we will provide a list of some of the best compression socks for nurses. A detailed review regarding each product will be given here to guide you to your best pair of compression socks.
Compression levels of the Compression Socks:
For every product that you buy, it is important to make sure that you pick up the right kind of product to avail the maximum productivity from it. In this context, it becomes extremely crucial to have the right knowledge about that particular product. The same goes for these compression socks as well. Compression socks will work the best only if you choose the right level of compression that you require. Yes, this means that different levels of compression are offered by these socks. The compression levels are as follows:
- 8 to 15mmHg – Mild compression. It helps to reduce swelling, fatigue, and aches. It also prevents the formation of varicose veins.
- 15 to 20mmHg – Moderate compression. It prevents varicose or spider veins and deep vein thrombosis.
- 20 to 30mmHg – Firm compression. It may be used to treat edema. It helps in correcting hypotension. This pressure is prescribed to people during post-surgical treatment of certain venous issues.
- 30 to 40mmHg – Extra firm compression. It provides all the benefits discussed above. It also helps in managing venous ulcers.
Higher the compression, greater will be its impact on the blood circulation of your body and will affect your overall health. Ask your foot specialist regarding the level of compression you need. This will help you to buy the most suitable compression sock.
Important things to consider while buying a nurse’s compression sock:
Material: Compression socks are made of various kinds of materials like nylon, cotton, wool, Spandex, rubber, Silver Drystat, Elastane, and Polyamide. Different materials serve different purposes. Some socks are made of a combination of some of these materials to provide the desired comfort, flexibility, compression, and antimicrobial properties. So, don’t forget to check the material of the sock before buying it.
Compression level: As I have said earlier, different socks have different levels of compression. The high compression level has a greater impact on the blood flow and oxygen circulation of the leg. This may lead to many health issues if it doesn’t suit you. So, always check the compression level offered by the sock before buying it. You can seek advice from your doctor to understand the right compression level that you need and buy accordingly.
Length: Different socks come with different lengths. Each length has different benefits. Socks that cover the calf are called compression sleeves. Socks that cover the foot or knee region are called compression socks. Compression stockings cover the entire leg. So, buy according to your needs or demands.
Type of compression: Compression socks offer two types of compression – one is regular or uniform compression and the other is graduated or gradient compression. Uniform compression means the entire length of the sock will have the same level of compression. On the other hand, gradient compression sock offers a higher level of compression around the ankles and gradually lessens to the top. Both types of compression styles treat different problems and have different beneficial areas. So, choose according to your need.
Some of the best Compression Socks for Nurses:
| SocksLane Compression Socks | |
|---|---|
| Figs Compression Socks | |
| Vitalsox Patented Graduated Compression Socks | |
| Blitzu Compression Socks | |
| SB SOX Compression Socks | |
| Sockwell Circulator Graduated Compression Socks | |
| Physix Gear Compression Socks | |
| Eurosocks Graduated Recovery Compression Socks | |
| Darn Tough Trail Legs OTC Cushion | |
| A-Swift Compression Socks |
1. SocksLane Compression Socks:
It is designed for only female nurses, especially nurses who are expecting. Pregnant nurses face more painful swelling, foot fatigue, and feet discomfort than regular nurses. So, they need special care and attention. This medical-grade compression sock from SocksLane provides the perfect level of compression required. It improves blood flow through the legs and reduces foot fatigue. It has an extra-large cuff that doesn’t pinch or suffocate the skin. The sock material is comfortable, breathable, anti-allergic, and anti-bacterial. This sock can withstand repeated washing. The reinforced seams increase the lifespan of the sock. It comes in many trendy colors and patterns to suit your style.
2. Figs Compression Socks:
This compression sock from Figs has its own personality. It comes with nurse-themed designs and patterns like bandages or blood cells. They also have other patterns and designs like pictures of sea turtles or palm trees. The compression pressure of this sock is about 20 to 30mmHg. This pressure in prefect to improve blood circulation and helps to reduce muscle fatigue. The sock’s material is super soft. It also has cushioned bottom for optimum comfort and support. It never overheats your feet and provides you a comfortable feel. Different sizes are available to choose the right fitting socks for you.
3. Vitalsox Patented Graduated Compression Socks (Men & Women):
It is an excellent choice for both male and female nurses. They are Italian based socks. It is extremely comfortable and helps to improve the blood flow throughout the feet and calves. These compression socks are made of silver drystat (moisture-wicking polypropylene), spandex, and nylon materials. These materials are environment-friendly and can be recycled. It not only enhances the blood circulation and increase oxygen delivery to the muscles but also reduces the production of lactic acid. The 100% recyclable silver polypropylene material prevents the foul sock odors and provides natural resistance to microbes. It also reduces the moisture to keep your feet fresh and clean. This sock is made with a 4-way stretch for a comfortable and consistent compression feeling throughout the whole sock. This sock can be worn right out of the package as it is pre-washed in a chemical-free fabric softener.
4. Blitzu Compression Socks for both men and women:
It is another good choice for both male and female nurses. It comes with a seamless toe construction. The heel/toe placements are cushioned to alleviate pressure throughout the foot’s bottom. The vertical ribbing and a unique twill design act as shock-absorbents and also provide support and stability to the foot arch. They also help to reduce calf cramps and prevent shin splints. This sock has a circular knit structure throughout its entire length to provide a 360 degree stretch for a better fit and high level of flexibility regardless of your range of motions. A non-slip cuff is present to provide a better fit and to prevent it from slipping around unnecessarily. This sock comes in a wide variety of colors to pick from. They are designed to reduce foot fatigue and other ailments like cramping and swelling. They also help to reduce varicose veins and increase the flow of blood oxygen.
5. SB SOX Compression Socks for Men & Women:
It is a popular and affordable pair of compression socks that can be worn by both male and female nurses. Are you in need of feet, ankles, calves, and legs’ muscles recovery? Then this is the right choice for you! It is designed to provide adequate support and a firm level of compression. This will improve the oxygen circulation and decrease the lactic acid build up in the body. The heel area is cushioned to provide extra relief. The toe support of this sock increases the overall comfort of the wearer. This sock is made of durable, breathable, and lightweight fabric that has sweat-resistant and antibacterial properties. Thus no foul odors will be developed in your feet. This material also helps to keep your feet comfortable while providing maximum mobility.
6. Sockwell Circulator Graduated Compression Socks:
It is one of the best compression socks for nurses. If you want to minimize your foot fatigue and swelling then it is the right choice for you. This sock also prevents soreness. The quality is impressive. They are also ideal for pregnant mothers or other daily hard workers who do a lot of continuous sitting or standing in their jobs. These socks offer a moderate compression level to improve blood circulation throughout the legs and feet. It is made of elastic spandex material to maintain a perfect and convenient stretch and remain in its place throughout the day. The footbed is light and cushioned to provide the wearer with an optimum level of comfort available and minimal pressure. From the suitably designed non-abrasive seamless toe closure and the cushioned sole to the heel box and graduated compression throughout the muscles of the calf, this compression socks from Sockwell offer four zones. This sock is designed to maintain a comfortable temperature on the inside, irrespective of the outside weather. The materials used to make this compression sock are wool, stretch nylon, spandex materials, and bamboo rayon. These materials of the sock can absorb moisture and control odor too. It is available in many colors to choose from.
7. Physix Gear Compression Socks:
It is an extremely popular compression sock that shows a fine balance of quality, durability, and comfort. The heel, foot, calves, and toe areas have the right amount of support and compression to provide relief from varicose veins and swollen legs. It also helps to reduce stiffness and calf fatigue. It is very smooth and comfortable. It can be worn very easily. The ‘not too tight’ stay-puff cuffs keep it in place and prevent it from rolling down the legs. It is made of breathable and durable materials. It can be easily washed and doesn’t lose its compression on washing. Its moisture-wicking properties help to keep your feet fresh and dry as well as prevent blisters and chafing. It is available in two different sizes. Many color options are available to choose from.
8. Eurosock’s Graduated Recover Compression Socks:
It is an excellent choice for nurses who want to boost recovery time. It not only reduces stress, swelling, and fatigue but also improves calf support and blood oxygen delivery to the muscles. This sock has special antibacterial Drystat fibers to prevent the development of foul feet odors and fungal and bacterial growth. Thus, your feet remain clean, dry, healthy, and fresh throughout the day. The materials used in this sock are nylon, Silver Drystat, spandex, and Lycra components. These high-quality stretchable materials provide a perfect and comfortable fit. They also reduce blisters and offers temperature control. These socks also help to alleviate lactic acid production in your muscles, swelling, and cramping.
9. Darn Tough Trail Legs OTC Cushion with Compression Sock:
Nurses spend most of their lives wearing socks and shoes. To provide them the desired breathability and support, Darn tough presents their excellent compression socks that are made of nylon, Merino wool, and spandex components. It is very comfortable. It is available in three different sizes to provide you the right fit. This sock is designed to be non-slip and to prevent the formation of blisters. It has the right level of compression to support your lower legs throughout the day. It is not very bulky and can easily be worn with any type of footwear. The fabric features moisture-wicking properties and thus this sock is perfect for any type of weather conditions. The fabric also has antibacterial and odor control properties.
10. A-Swift Compression Socks for Men & Women:
It is another best option for nurses that is made of breathable, silver yarn anti-bacterial materials. It has anti-fungal and anti-odor properties to provide a clean, safer, healthier, odor-free environment for your feet. It also wicks moisture away to keep your feet dry and fresh. It has a compression level of 20-30mmHg. This compression helps to prevent lactic acid build up in your muscles and reduces swelling and cramping. Thus, your feet get relief from inflammation, blisters, splints, and even plantar fasciitis. It features graduated compression with the strongest pressure around the ankles. This compression level gradually decreases as it moves up the leg. This improves blood oxygen circulation and blood flow throughout the feet and legs. They come in several types of designs like polka dot, heart, rainbow, sheep, and many more. Several colors like black, brown, grey, white, olive, and blue are available to choose from.
What are the benefits of wearing Compression Socks?
Compression socks are extremely useful for nurses. They improve the overall health of the wearer. But what are the real beneficial areas of wearing a compression sock?
Let’s discuss those areas now.
- They help to minimize the swelling in the legs.
- They also prevent or reduce varicose veins. They prevent any type of progression of different venous disorders.
- They also help in reducing venous ulcers.
- They help people to deal with Lymphedema.
- They improve the blood flow and oxygen circulation throughout the legs by creating additional pressure on the feet, ankles, and legs.
- They also improve the recovery time of any damaged, achy, or sore muscles.
When to avoid wearing any Compression clothing?
Just like every product has its pros, there are cons too! It is important to understand the merits, as well as the demerits of a product in order to have a clear understanding of how to obtain the maximum out of it, yet know when to avoid the same. All individuals cannot wear compression socks or any other compression clothing. Yes, you heard me right! It is very beneficial but not for all. People suffering from any cardiovascular diseases or have poor blood flow should avoid any type of compression clothing. Or at least they need to take advice from a physician before wearing one. Because compression clothing can put additional pressure on your body and may worsen your condition. People with skin problems and rashes must also avoid any type of compression clothing.
How to achieve the desired benefits from your Compression Socks?
To achieve the desired effects from your compression socks, follow these things.
- Always buy the right fitting socks. Too tight or too loose socks will negate the benefits offered by them and will provide an inaccurate level of compression.
- You must wear socks on both legs with the same level of compression. Uneven compression can lead to many health issues and thus must be avoided unless prescribed by your doctor.
- Avoid using high levels of compression unless and until prescribed by your doctor.
- After every 3 to 6 months (or as recommended by the manufacturer), replace your worn out compression socks with a new one.
How to care for your Compression Socks?
In order to make sure that your compression sock is lasting for a really long time, you need to take proper care of it. You must know how to use and maintain your compression socks. They will last longer and provide you with the optimum care and functions if you take care of them properly.
Follow these simple tips that are mentioned below to take care of your compression socks:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to wash them for maintaining its functionality.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals to wash them. These chemicals can damage the sock’s material.
- Wash them at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer.
- Avoid wringing out the compression socks or using harsh drying process or else your sock’s fabric elasticity, fit, and size can be altered.
- Avoid wearing harsh lotions or oils on your legs to protect the fabric of your compression socks from getting damaged.
From where can you buy your Compression Socks?
Compression socks can be bought from anywhere. You can buy them from online eCommerce websites like Amazon and Zappos or one-stop retailers like Walmart and target. Compression socks are also sold at local sporting goods retailer. Each place has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Online shopping allows you to get special discounts on some colors and sizes. Many brands sell their compression socks only in online websites. You can also read the online reviews of the products from these sites. This will help you to get a proper and clear idea about each one of them. Your options will not be limited. Some problems with online shopping include the delivery time. Some products take a lot of time to be delivered. Moreover, returning or refunding is a hectic process too regarding online shopping.Offline shopping helps you in emergency purchase. The support experts present over there right on the website can help you with your shopping process and guide you to pick the right one.
Conclusion:
We have reached the end. A list of some of the best compression socks is given above to guide you to the suitable sock that can fulfill all your demands and provide you the desired comfort. Their features along with their pros and cons are discussed in detail to give a clear idea of the functionality of each compression sock. Other questions regarding compression socks are also answered here. Thanks for reading till the end! Hope you have found this really useful. We would feel happy to help you in deciding your pick.