Sheltering in place or working from home or remotely during the COVID-19 crisis means that most of us are spending the bulk of our day sitting down. And, as you might expect, spending extended periods moving little more than your fingers at your computer keyboard or TV remote doesn't exactly do wonders for your overall health.
Sitting for long periods of time can cause sluggish blood flow in your lower extremities,
which can have negative effects on your overall health. If you find yourself sitting more than before consider using compression stockings to mitigate some of the bad effects of extended periods inactivity.
Compression socks can provide relief for muscle aches, inflammation and foot and leg pain. They can work to reduce swelling and help with lymphatic drainage in the muscles and improve stagnant blood flow. Once known as compression hose or compression stockings, they are specially made, snug-fitting, stretchy socks that gently squeeze your leg. Graduated compression or pressure stockings are tighter around the ankle and get looser as they move up your leg. Compression sleeves are just the tube part, without the foot.
The pressure in compression socks is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). A mild pressure rating would be 10-20mmHg or 15-20mmHg. A firmer pressure rating would be 20-30mmHg. Medically grade custom-fit compression hose prescribed by a physician would go up in numbers, such as 20 to 30 or 30 to 40. When buying compression socks, you'll need to measure your calf and ankle circumference, not your shoe size. It is recommended that you consult with a physician about what pressure rating is best for you. Compression socks should fit tightly but not too tight that they become painful, cut off circulation or impede mobility.