Compression Socks

WHY USE COMPRESSION STOCKINGS?

There are many reasons to buy compression socks: for comfort, to perform better during physical activity, to prevent swelling or to prevent and relieve medical conditions.

The theory behind compression socks is that they fit tightly over the ankle, increasing blood circulation. As the blood moves faster, it is more efficiently oxygenated and carries away 'waste products'. This allows the muscles to recover more quickly, which means that compression stockings have a very good preventive effect against varicose veins, valve failure and blood clots in the legs.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A SUPPORT STOCKING AND A COMPRESSION STOCKING?

Compression socks improve blood circulation and provide muscle support, so they can help you both improve your performance during exercise and give your muscles a faster recovery. Support sock is something that has been around for a very long time and that most people know, but compression socks are a newer concept for many. The principle is the same, the socks fit tightly over the ankle, which increases blood circulation.

Support socks have a hard and even pressure while compression socks have varying pressure with the greatest pressure at the ankle to decrease upwards. Then the pressure is lower on the calf. If you use a support sock while exercising, the pressure can be too great on the calf and you can get cramps.

HOW LONG CAN YOU WEAR COMPRESSION SOCKS?

The socks can be worn all day, as long as they feel comfortable. The good thing to keep in mind is that after many hours of use, they stretch and the pressure decreases slightly. This is remedied by washing. When you put on the washed socks, they are tight again.

CAN YOU WEAR COMPRESSION STOCKINGS AT NIGHT?

No, this is not a good idea. The blood pressure in the body decreases in the lying position which makes the sock unnecessary as its purpose is to increase blood circulation.

COMPRESSION CLASSES

Compression is measured in mmHg (mm = millimetre, Hg = mercury) and measures how a sock reacts to a given change in pressure. Compression stockings that are sold are divided into several different classes. The socks in our range are all class 1.

COMPRESSION CLASS 1

15-21 mmHg

Used for minor problems such as swelling, tired feet and minor varicose veins.

COMPRESSION CLASS 2

22-32 mmHg

Used after surgery and for varicose veins. Always consult your doctor or nurse for information.

COMPRESSION CLASS 3

33-46 mmHg

For acute problems, Class 3 compression stockings are used and are customised by trained staff for a perfect fit.

CLASS 4 COMPRESSION

Used only in hospitals and nursing homes.

DO COMPRESSION STOCKINGS IMPROVE SPORTS PERFORMANCE?

There are different opinions on how compression socks affect performance in sports such as running. According to current findings, the socks have no proven effect on performance factors such as oxygen uptake and heart rate. However, they seem to have a positive effect on running economy and mechanical factors such as stride frequency, stride length and contact and flight time. Compression socks also have an effect on the feeling of fatigue/pain in the legs both during running and during recovery. The impact can be explained by the fact that the swelling in the legs is reduced by the compression, the removal of lactic acid is facilitated and the stability of the compression keeps the muscle together and makes it work more efficiently. So less fatigue in the legs and a more efficient running stride is the result!