As popular and helpful as compression socks are, they may not be right for everyone.

JulieAlexK / Getty Images

1.

Many people wearcompression socks during long flightsto prevent these issues.

What do compression socks do? Woman sitting on top of bed putting on toeless compression socks on her legs

JulieAlexK / Getty Images

Compression socks prevent venous ulcers by promoting blood flow from the legs.

Wearing them also helps manage other symptoms associated with venous insufficiency, such as leg heaviness or fatigue.

Prevent Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

Compression gear can also protect you frompost-thrombotic syndrome, a common complication of DVT.

This condition causes chronic swelling, cramping, itching, pain, and leg heaviness.

Boost Performance and Recovery

Athletes often wear compression stockings during activity to boost exercise performance and recovery.

Help Manage Arthritis

Arthritis is a chronic disease characterized by chronic swelling and joint pain.

Wearing compression socks can help people with arthritis walk comfortably, improving quality of life.

They may reach the mid-shin, the knee, or even the thigh.

They come in different fabric types, with some designed to remove sweat and allow airflow.

Can Anyone Wear Them?

This rare issue typically affects people with limited sensation in the legs.

While wearing compression socks carries few risks, using them when you don’t need them can have drawbacks.

They can cause unnecessary discomfort and raise the risk of complications, such as bleeding or restricted circulation.

How Often Should You Wear Them?

Wearing them can help manage swelling in the lower limbs and prevent blood clots and related complications.

Athletes may also wear compression socks during play or competition to speed up recovery time.

Lim CS, Davies AH.Graduated compression stockings.CMAJ.

2014;186(10):E391-E398.

doi:10.1503/cmaj.131281

American Heart Association.Do you really need compression socks on long flights?

2016;9(9):CD004002.

2020;11:29-42. doi:10.2147/OAJSM.S198809

MedlinePlus.Varicose vein treatment.

Robertson BF, Thomson CH, Siddiqui H.Side effects of compression stockings: a case report.Br J Gen Pract.

2014;64(623):316-317. doi:10.3399/bjgp14X680341

Mount Sinai.compression stockings.