Everybody can benefit from having a good pair of compression socks in their drawers. However, not everybody knows this yet. While compression socks have consistently proven to be useful, outdated ideas and several misbeliefs have held people back from wearing them, especially younger people.
If you’re interested in getting your own pair of men’s compression socks, doing away with the following myths can ease any worries you may have about them. Moreover, you’ll gain a better idea of what compression socks can and can’t do. Without further ado, here are some common misconceptions about using compression socks:
Myth #1: Compression Socks Are Only for the Sick and Elderly
When people talk about compression socks, the first thing that comes to mind is a kindly-looking grandmother with a pair of thick socks around her calves. To this day, the use of compression socks is associated with the elderly because they’re the ones who are usually at the highest risk of experiencing blood circulation problems. Examples of these issues include varicose veins, diabetes, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
However, the primary goal of compression socks is to improve circulation by preventing blood from pooling around the legs. By gently squeezing select areas of the lower extremities, these kinds of socks can provide ample support for the leg veins. And this benefit applies to everybody, not just to the sick or elderly.
Some examples of individuals who can significantly benefit from wearing compression socks include:
- people who travel a lot via planes, cars, trains, and other modes of transportation;
- employees who stand or sit for long periods; and
- athletes or sporty individuals who regularly engage in intense physical activities.
Myth #2: Compression Socks Can Heal Leg Injuries
Some individuals mistakenly believe that wearing compression socks can heal leg injuries. Remember: compression socks are supportive gear. They can help you prevent or slow down venous disorders and improve blood circulation. However, they’re not a magic solution for healing a leg injury such as a sprain or a fracture. In such cases, a doctor or physical therapist may prescribe compression socks as complementary support, but it won’t necessarily fix your leg in an instant.
Myth #3: Buying Compression Socks Requires a Doctor’s Prescription
It’s important to note that compression socks are categorized based on the level of compression that they can provide. Those with lower compression levels, usually ranging from 8 to 20 mmHg, are considered mild compression options and can be used by anyone for extra leg support. They also don’t require a prescription and are easily purchasable online or at any department store.
On the other hand, socks that feature higher compression levels are usually designed to address specific health issues like DVT or lymphedema. Hence, pharmacies usually won’t allow you to purchase these types of compression socks without a prescription. While they’re generally safe to wear, they’re not recommended for use by the general public to avoid any possible contraindications.
Myth #4: Compression Socks Are Difficult to Put On
The common assumption that compression socks are hard to put on stems from the inefficiencies of how they used to be designed. When they were introduced in the 1950s, compression socks were notoriously thick and required a lot of effort to put on one’s legs.
However, modern technology has come a long way, and the materials that make up compression socks have evolved. Today, these socks are commonly made from more flexible materials like natural rubber, spandex, cotton, and nylon for increased functionality and ease of use.
Myth #5: Compression Socks Are Too Hot to Wear
When summer comes, people opt for clothes that are lighter and more breathable—two characteristics that people don’t commonly associate with compression socks. But as mentioned earlier, the designs and materials used for these kinds of socks have changed over the years. Today, there are compression socks that are made of sheer yet equally effective moisture-wicking materials, so they can be worn even during warmer months.
Myth #6: Compression Socks Aren’t Stylish
Nobody wants to wear thick and frumpy compression socks. Fortunately, modern compression socks now come in a wide array of fashionable colors, styles, and designs. You can choose from various kinds of prints, patterns, and lengths to find the best fit for your daily needs. Indeed, the compression socks of today look more like your average pair of stylish everyday casual socks. So not only can you look good, but you can also enjoy all the health benefits that compression socks have to offer.
Myth #7: Compression Socks Can Help You Lose Weight
While several studies have found that wearing compression socks can offer several different health benefits, losing weight is not one of them.
The idea that these types of socks can help you shed a few pounds stems from the misbelief that improving blood circulation in the lower legs can lead to weight loss. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. No single product can replicate the effects of eating a healthy diet and getting sufficient exercise. What compression socks can do is assist you in your weight-loss journey by providing extra support for your legs as you pursue a more active lifestyle.
Truly, compression socks can offer a bevy of benefits for any individual willing to give them a try. Hopefully, this article has helped clear up some outdated myths and misconceptions about compression socks that have endured over the years. Now, with a clearer understanding of what compression socks can and can’t do for you, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision when shopping for them. Just do your research and keep an open mind, and you’ll eventually find a pair or two that suits your needs best.
Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.
