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Compression socks are supportive, snug-fitting socks that typically come up to the top of your calf and encourage the healthy circulation of blood from your ankles back up to your heart. Most offer graduated compression, with more pressure at the ankle than the calf.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cCompression socks work by applying a constant pressure to the ankle and calf area,\u201d explains Dr. Doug Tumen, a podiatrist at Hudson Valley Foot Associates<\/a> in Kingston, New York, and the author of Ask the Foot Doctor: Real-Life Answers to Enjoy Happy, Healthy, Pain-Free Feet<\/em><\/a>. \u201cThis prevents pooling of blood in the legs, which is a risk factor for a blood clot. Arteries bring the oxygenated blood pumped from the heart to all areas of the body while the veins work to bring the blood back to the lungs for fresh oxygen. The compression socks aid in this venous return.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n What Travel Editors Wear on the Plane<\/a><\/p><\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n Compression socks are a good bet for long-haul flyers, who are at increased risk of blood clots on flights over four hours, according to the World Health Organization<\/a> (WHO).<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFor travelers, the most common use is for long flights to prevent swelling in the feet and legs, and also more importantly to minimize the risk of a dangerous blood clot, called a DVT or deep vein thrombosis,\u201d says Dr. Tumen. \u201cThe risk of a DVT in the leg is that a piece of the blood clot can break off and travel to the lungs. This is called a pulmonary embolus and can be fatal often without warning.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although DVT is most often linked to air travel, WHO notes that it can be a risk on long car or train rides as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compression socks have other benefits for travelers besides cutting down on your DVT risk. Dr. Jonathan A. Levison, a vascular surgeon at The Cardiovascular Care Group<\/a> in New Jersey, explains that compression socks can help reduce the uncomfortable swelling in the legs that\u2019s common on long flights due to inactivity, changes in air pressure, and exposure to high-sodium foods: \u201cCompression socks\/stockings will help prevent the accumulation of fluid in the lower part of the leg where the symptoms from swelling are usually most notable. \u2026 I wear them daily as a surgeon, as I am standing in one place for extended periods.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Compression socks may also be useful for travelers who plan to be active once they arrive in their destination. \u201cScientific studies so far are conflicting, but anecdotally some elite and novice runners swear by compression stockings worn during or immediately after a run to reduce muscle soreness [and] fatigue and produce faster lactate recovery,\u201d says Dr. Tyeese L. Gaines, founder and CEO of NOWmed Walk-In Urgent Care<\/a> in Jersey City, New Jersey. \u201cThe theory is that the compression helps blood circulate better, which in turns allows more oxygen to get to the tissues.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n 15 Tiny Travel Products to Help You Stay Healthy on Vacation<\/a><\/p><\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n Most travelers can benefit from wearing compression socks, but they\u2019re particularly important for people with certain health conditions. \u201cThose at higher risk for clots, such as pregnant women, obese people, people with clotting problems (including cancer patients), [people with] varicose veins, and those who have already had a clot, should see their physician for a prescription to make they are getting the correct size and amount of pressure,\u201d advises Dr. Monique May, a board-certified family physician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Tumen notes that smokers and women on birth control pills may also have increased clotting risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n While most travelers can wear compression socks without issues, they might not be a good fit for those with select medical conditions. Dr. Levison says that compression socks can be uncomfortable for people with open wounds on their legs, while his colleague at The Cardiovascular Care Group, vascular surgeon Dr. Michael Ombrellino, recommends against compression socks for patients with severe peripheral arterial disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThose with poor circulation, skin infections, or damage to the nerves in their feet or legs (from diabetes or otherwise) should see a doctor first because compression stockings may not be ideal for them,\u201d Dr. May advises.<\/p>\n\n\n Compression socks are available from numerous pharmacies and online retailers, though those with risk factors for clotting might want to get them through their physician.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cA prescription from your doctor may help with a more professional fit and possibly insurance coverage,\u201d says Dr. Tumen. \u201cPharmacies specializing in durable medical equipment will often perform measurements of your ankle and calf to give a custom type fit.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Online retailers that offer compression socks include Amazon<\/a>, Walgreens<\/a>, CVS<\/a>, FIGS<\/a>, Comrad<\/a>, and Mojo Socks<\/a>, among many others. The socks come in a range of colors and patterns, so you don\u2019t have to settle for boring black or beige.<\/p>\n\n\n\n With such a wide array of compression socks available, it can be difficult to figure out which ones you should choose. If you\u2019re not enlisting the help of your doctor, here are a few factors to think about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n First off, consider the height of the socks. \u201cCompression socks\/stockings are made in a variety of configurations (calf-high, low-thigh, high-thigh, pantyhose, open and closed toe),\u201d says Dr. Levison. \u201cIn my opinion calf-high are the easiest to put on. \u2026 More extensive garments are usually not required and may even be more uncomfortable for travel.\u00a0 I also do not recommend the open toe, as often these can lead to fluid accumulating in the open part of the end of the foot.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Next, you\u2019ll want to figure out the correct amount of pressure. \u201cMedical grade compression socks are rated in millimeters of mercury (mmHg),\u201d explains Dr. Gaines. \u201cThere are usually two numbers, which is the pressure measured at the ankle and the calf. So if it says 20-30mmHg, that\u2019s 30 mmHg of pressure at the ankle and 20 mmHg at the calf.\u201d The lower the numbers, the milder the compression.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cThose without a formal diagnosis of a pathologic problem causing swelling of the legs should typically start with the lighter pair of compression (15-20mmHg) as they will be easier to put on,\u201d Dr. Levison advises. \u201cThe higher-pressure garments are typically designed for those with more advanced symptoms related to swelling.\u201d Note that higher-pressure garments may require a doctor\u2019s prescription.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be sure to look carefully at the size charts. \u201cThese are not one-size-fits-all garments,\u201d warns Dr. Ombrellino. \u201cAlways buy your first pair from a location or site [that] either measures the legs properly or gives detailed instructions for proper measuring of the correct size.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Finally, consider whether the socks will be comfortable. \u201cOne potential side effect of wearing compression socks for too long is mild skin irritation,\u201d says Dr. Velimir Petkov, medical director at Premier Podiatry<\/a> in Clifton, New Jersey. \u201cLook for a fabric that is lightweight and breathable.\u201d Dr. Petkov recommends compression socks with pinch-resistant zippers and adjustable straps.<\/p>\n\n\n \u201cIf you\u2019re new to putting on compression socks, it takes a little practice,\u201d says Jenni Grisso, compression expert and head of sales at Skineez, a provider of \u201cSkincarewear\u201d including hydrating compression socks<\/a>. \u201cThe best way to put them on is to grab the toe and fold the rest of the stock inside out. Place your foot into the toe area and roll the rest of the stocking over your ankle and leg.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dr. Petkov recommends putting compression socks on before you leave for the airport, as they can be tricky to put on in the tight confines of a plane. \u201cThey should be worn smoothly around your legs without sliding down or bunching up,\u201d he says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cRemember, if [your compression socks] feel too tight or painful, you got the wrong size,\u201d says Grisso. \u201cYou can actually cause more harm than good. Compression socks should feel like your calves are getting a gentle hug, not being strangled.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Although wearing compression socks can help reduce your risk of dangerous blood clots, you should still make sure to take other precautions against DVT on long trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cFrequent walking, standing, and stretching are imperative,\u201d says Dr. Tumen. \u201cWhen you can, especially on long flights, get up every half hour. Attempt when you can to sit in bulkhead seating or choose seats with extra legroom. Move your feet and flex your calf muscles frequently while also avoiding crossing your legs. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid alcohol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u201cAny swelling, redness, or pain in the calf can be a warning sign of a DVT. Report any concerns immediately to a health professional.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\nRelated:<\/h3>\n
What Are the Benefits of Compression Socks?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Related:<\/h3>\n
Who Should Consider Wearing Compression Socks?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Is There Anyone Who Shouldn\u2019t Wear Compression Socks?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Related:<\/h3>\n5 Ways to Combat Low Airplane Humidity (and Stay Healthier)<\/a><\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
How to Get Compression Socks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How to Choose the Best Compression Socks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Related:<\/h3>\nThis Is What Happens to Your Body When You Fly<\/a><\/span>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
How to Wear Compression Socks<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
What Else Can Travelers Do to Reduce the Risk of DVT on Long Flights?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n