Do you want to know whether you should use compression socks while sleeping or not? Or do you want to know whether they will affect the quality of your sleep or not? Let me show you its reality.
Yes, you could sleep in compression socks, but there is no benefit to wearing them at night. So you should only wear them while sleeping if they are prescribed to you by a doctor. It is because they are more effective when you are moving, especially in the presence of gravity.
Reading this article will educate you all about compression socks and their use during the day and night. Let’s check out its details, starting with the introduction to these socks.
What are compression stockings?
Compression stockings are the socks that provide pressure to the legs. They are also known as recovery socks. Their design increases blood circulation, preventing blood pooling and addressing circulatory issues. They are widely used by athletes. They are also beneficial for treating venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis. Let’s have a look at their types.
Types
Compression socks are available in multiple varieties on the market. You should use the most suitable one according to your discomfort. Use regular ones if you are using them for prevention or recovery. Here are some of their types:
- Graduated compression socks.
- Thigh-High Compression Stockings.
- Knee-high compression socks.
- Open-Toe Compression Stockings.
- Closed-Toe Compression Socks.
- Maternity Compression Stockings.
How do compression socks work?
Compression socks work by applying gentle pressure to your legs and ankles. These are commonly used to improve blood circulation in the legs and provide relief from circulatory issues. Here’s how compression socks work:
Graduated Compression:
Compression socks are designed with graduated compression. It means the pressure is highest at the ankle and gradually decreases as it moves up the leg. It increases the upward flow of blood and helps the veins push blood back towards the heart.
Support for Veins:
The compression sock’s pressure supports the veins in the legs. Veins have one-way valves that prevent blood from flowing backward. These valves may weaken over time, or due to certain conditions, they may cause poor circulation. Compression socks provide external pressure, which helps the valves.
Reducing Swelling:
Compression socks also help reduce edema or swelling in the legs. The pressure helps prevent the accumulation of fluid in the tissues. It helps reduce swelling and discomfort in the leg.
Muscle Pump Effect:
When you walk or move, the muscles in your legs contract and relax. When you wear these, they act as a pump to push blood back to the heart. This is especially beneficial for people without any physical activity.
Preventing blood clots:
Compression socks also work as a preventive measure against the formation of blood clots. It helps by promoting blood circulation, which helps reduce the risk of blood pooling in the lower limbs and the subsequent formation of clots.
Improving oxygen delivery:
Increased blood circulation due to these socks helps in the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to the muscles. It will help reduce muscle fatigue and soreness. Due to these effects, these are very popular among athletes.
Varicose Vein Management:
Compression socks are commonly recommended for individuals with varicose veins. The increased pressure around the area helps to reduce the appearance of varicose veins and provide relief from pain and heaviness.
Can You Wear Compression Socks to Bed?
Yes, you can wear compression socks to bed, but you should not wear them unless you are medically advised by your doctor. It is because these socks especially help you during the day when you are moving around under the effect of gravity.
Although there are no side effects to wearing these socks at night, there is no special benefit as well. So it’s better to rest your legs at night and refresh your skin.
Who should wear compression socks?
Compression socks are beneficial for several people. Here are some of the people who could benefit from it:
- Athletes
- Travellers
- Pregnant women
- People recovering from injury
- People with varicose veins
- Occupations with prolonged sitting or standing
- Surgical recovery
- Older adults with circulatory issues
- Diabetics
- Exercisers
- Blood clot risk prevention.
- Lymphedema management
- People with compromised vein function
Final Words
You should sleep in compression socks only if they are prescribed by a doctor. If you are generally using them for recovery or any other purpose, you should not wear them in bed. It is because they are mostly effective during the day.
Moreover, your skin also needs some rest, and you cannot wear them 24/7. So the best way is to wear them during the day and remove them at night. Apply some cream or lotion, and let your skin get refreshed.
