For some people, compression stockings are an essential part of their day-to-day wardrobe. These tight, elastic garments provide so much relief for a variety of conditions, such as varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis, that the only time some people will remove them is when they take a shower or bath, but can wearing compression socks be harmful?
Learn more about what, if any, dangers could happen if you wear compression socks for too long.
Fit of Compression Socks is More Important
It isn’t so much the length of time you wear compression socks that determines if you experience any problems; it is more about whether or not the compression socks fit you properly. If your compression socks are properly fitted, you could wear them as long or as often as you like. If they are not fitted properly, you could experience a number of problems ranging from pain and discomfort to numbness and loss of circulation.
What Types of Problems can Occur if You Wear the Wrong Compression Socks?
A number of problems can occur if you are not wearing the proper compression socks. Some problems you could experience include:
- • Development of calluses and corns on the feet – calluses and corns can develop if the compression socks are too tight
- • Numbness and tingling of the lower limbs
- • Rashes, extreme itching, and skin irritation
- • Sudden and unexplained joint pain especially in the knees
- • Poor circulation
- • Pain
- • Swelling of the legs, feet, and toes
- • Sudden spasms of the feet, toes and legs
How to Tell if You Aren’t Wearing the Right Compression Socks
It isn’t always easy to tell if you are wearing the right compression socks. However, if you experience any of the following, it could indicate that the compression stockings you are wearing might be too small, too large, too tight, or not the right length:
- • Stockings are extremely hard to put on – stockings should be tight, but you shouldn’t have to struggle or fight to pull them up your legs
- • Stockings are hard to pull off – compression socks should be able to be removed with relative ease. However, they should not be so loose that they slip right off.
- • Stockings fall down your legs or bunch around the ankles
- • Legs tend to swell while wearing compression socks
- • Pain – it should not be painful to wear compression socks
Work with a Vein Specialist to Find the Right Type of Compression Socks
It may seem like compression socks are all the same, but there are dozens of different types and sizes available for purchase. Avoid experiencing problems by working with a vein specialist to find the right type of compression socks for you.
A vein specialist, like Dr. Chris Pittman, can help make sure the compression socks you choose to use are designed to properly treat the problem you are experiencing and that they are fitted properly. Dr. Pittman will also make sure you are wearing the compression socks properly.
In addition to providing advice on compression socks, Dr. Pittman can help you determine if additional treatment may be needed. Some conditions, such as varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis, may require additional treatment in order to relieve any pain or discomfort you may be experiencing. Dr. Pittman will help you improve your vein health by exploring all treatment options with you.
Call Vein 911 today to schedule an appointment to speak with Dr. Pittman about possible vein treatment options and to receive help in finding the right type of compression socks.
