Compression socks hug your calves and your legs. They provide support and prevent achy legs and vascular pooling that causes varicose and spider veins.

Once those issues are there, compression socks help manage the issue and prevents worsening. If you have a family history of these issues or show early signs, then start with early prevention!

What Are Compression Stockings / Socks?

Medical grade compression stockings / socks promote better venous flow which helps control leg, foot and ankle swelling, varicose veins, leg fatigue, spider veins and other problematic leg conditions.

Compression stockings or socks are made from special material. The design provides more compression further down the leg and less as they move up. They are available in a wide variety of compression and styles. Compression socks / stockings are available for almost every occasion including casual, athletic, and dressy.

Compression stockings come in men’s and women’s styles and sizing. A certified fitter should measure you and discuss your goals of compression.

Who Uses Compression Stockings?

In our Oakville Physio, Massage and Foot clinic we still see that many people associate compression socks with an older population. While this is certainly true, MANY people can benefit from compression!

People of all ages and abilities can benefit from wearing compression socks or stockings.

• Travelling – wearing compression socks while travelling and especially flying, can help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Varicose Veins / Spider Veins – compression socks can help prevent the progression and manage already existing issues.
• Occupation based – people who are on their feet all day or who are sitting a lot benefit from compression therapy. This prevents the feeling or tired achy legs. This also prevents associated onset of varicose veins caused by venous back-flow.
• Post fracture
• Post knee, hip or ankle surgery – due to gravity swelling can stay or move down the leg. Compression therapy helps prevent this and helps progress healing. Our Oakville Physiotherapists often suggest compression socks and stockings for those who have had achilles ruptures, knee replacements, hip replacements etc. for a few months post.
• Pregnancy – is a large factor. Fluid retention and swollen legs can be common. The onset of varicose veins can occur depending on how the baby is sitting. For most, we recommend compression socks/ stockings during pregnancy.

How do I get Compression Stockings?

Basic compression socks are available over the counter at your local drug store and some athletics store (15-20mmHg).  Extended health insurance will usually only cover compression garments with a compression rating starting at  20-30mmHg.  These compression stockings will usually require a prescription from your family physician.

This prescription needs to have a diagnosis and recommended amount of compression.

A certified fitter will measure your legs and the appropriate size and style will be ordered.