The Best Compression Socks For Varicose Veins Or Tired Legs

Compression socks have a bad rap. But, in case you missed it, we’re all about vein health at the minute.

On social media, people are touting the benefits of lying with your legs up the wall every day, while elsewhere attention is being drawn to visible veins like varicose veins or spider veins.

Whether you’re worried about vein swelling, appearance, or even leg fatigue during travel or exercising, though, compression socks could help.

“Compression socks may be recommended for people with certain vein conditions, leg swelling or varicose veins, as well as some people who are recovering from surgery or have limited mobility,” Superdrug Online Doctor, Dr Babak Ashrafi told HuffPost UK.

Certain people are more at risk of developing varicose veins, such as women, older people, and those who stand for long periods of time.

“People also often think about compression socks when travelling long distances, particularly on flights, because sitting still for an extended period can affect circulation,” Ashrafi explains.

Compression socks could also help support vein health for some people, Ashrafi adds.

“The veins in our legs have to work against gravity to return blood towards the heart, and compression can help encourage this process,” he says.

“They may be recommended for people experiencing problems associated with poor venous circulation, such as varicose veins or swelling in the lower legs.”

Although compression socks could help with the appearance and feeling of varicose veins, they can’t cure venous conditions.

“Compression socks can help manage symptoms, but they don’t necessarily address the underlying cause of a vein problem,” Ashrafi explains.

“If you’re regularly experiencing swollen, painful or heavy legs, or you’re concerned about your risk of blood clots, speak to a healthcare professional rather than relying on compression socks alone.”

If you’re considering wearing compression socks, we’ve found the best to shop now, in a range of colours, shapes, and lengths, and for a variety of needs.

However, if you’re concerned about your cardiovascular health, Ashrafi recommends speaking to a medical professional rather than relying on compression socks alone.

There is no set period of time you should wear compression socks for.

“How long you should wear compression socks depends entirely on why they have been recommended,” Ashrafi explains.

“Some people may be advised to wear them during the day and remove them before going to bed, while others may only need them in particular circumstances, such as during travel or while recovering from a procedure.”

The type and strength of compression are also important, Ashrafi adds.

“Wearing compression that isn’t appropriate for you can potentially cause problems, particularly if you have certain conditions affecting the arteries in your legs.

“If compression socks have been recommended for a medical reason, follow the advice you’ve been given about how and when to wear them.

“And if you’re considering them because you’ve noticed new or persistent symptoms in your legs, it’s better to seek medical advice first rather than self-diagnosing.”