Chances are you’ve stumbled upon this blog because of doctor’s orders to get some compression socks. Or, perhaps your running buddy can’t stop raving about the compression sleeves they’ve been wearing during marathon training. Whatever the case may be, you are probably interested in what compression socks and sleeves can do for you but don’t know where to start. If you’re in the dark, no worries, PRO Compression is here to provide you with a comprehensive guide to compression products and the purpose they serve.
What Are Compression Socks and Sleeves?
Let’s start with the basics. What exactly are compression socks and sleeves? Compression sleeves and socks are garments that wrap around ligaments, including feet, ankles, calves and arms, and are made of a blend of fabric materials such as nylon and polyester. They serve the purpose of improving overall circulation and blood flow to your limbs and body.
Compression socks are a special type of stocking that typically wrap around your feet, ankles and calves. This is done by applying certain compression levels to the intended areas that they fit around. Compression sleeves use the same type of compression technology as compression socks but only wrap around a specific limb like a calf or forearm.
Compression levels are measured in mm Hg (millimeters of mercury), and correlate to blood pressure levels. Typical compression levels can range from 10 mm Hg to 30 mm Hg, with 30 mm Hg bringing a higher level of intensity. Depending on specific circulation needs, you can choose which compression level is the right fit. Runners, for example, might want more compression to promote circulation to fit longer endurance activities, while compression dress socks for the office only need a low to moderate compression level to provide comfort throughout the day.
How Does Compression Technology Work?
Compression socks and sleeves are built with a special science. Compression technology refers to the process of applying pressure to specific areas of the body to help increase blood flow and circulation. It is used to address problems with poor circulation, swelling and inflammation due to injury. By increasing blood flow, more oxygen-rich blood is carried throughout the body in an efficient manner and broken down soft tissue is then able to repair itself more quickly. Most compression sock products you’ll come across in the market offer graduated compression technology. Graduated compression means there is more pressure in a certain area and as the sock material moves closer to the heart, the pressure decreases. So, for compression socks for example, there is more pressure applied near the feet and ankles and as the sock moves up the calf, the pressure decreases.
Benefits of Wearing Compression Socks and Sleeves
Just about anyone can benefit from compression socks and compression sleeves. For those with diabetes suffering from common side effects like edema that often happens as a result of having the disease, over-the-calf compression socks with graduated compression technology work to reduce swelling in the lower limbs. At the same time, they protect feet from accidental cuts and scrapes that, if infected, can be extremely dangerous for diabetics.
Athletes of all sorts can also benefit from different types of compression products. If you’re a marathon runner who wants maximum comfort in your legs while running but prefer to wear ankle socks with running shoes, try compression sleeves for the calves. These promote constant circulation and fight off unwanted aches as you run long distance but also allow you to have the flexibility of wearing ankle length socks for your feet. Alternatively, there are also mid-to low-rise compression socks you can wear which will allow you to experience the same circulation benefits from compression technology but in a more concentrated area.
Those traveling long distances might gravitate towards knee-high compression socks. They keep the blood flowing during prolonged periods of sitting. Or, if you work a job where you’re on your feet all day, compression socks can be the perfect solution to preventing soreness and keep you moving and feet fresh throughout each shift.
People with chronic pain in their limbs and joints can look to compression products like arm sleeves for elbow pain or compression socks to address pain and circulation in the lower limbs. Arm sleeves can also be worn to improve performance during your favorite activities. Golf, tennis, baseball, basketball, cycling, running and hiking are all sports that can be amplified with compression sleeves. You can wear them during an activity for extra support and comfort to improve performance or slide them on after an activity to help recovery.
Compression socks and sleeves can treat a wide spectrum of issues, from mild soreness to severe symptoms and conditions. Just about anyone can benefit from this special type of garment.
Where To Buy Compression Socks and Sleeves
As a consumer, we know there are a lot of options on the market to choose from when it comes to compression socks and sleeves. PRO Compression is the leader in compression products. We have a wide range of compression socks and compression sleeves for arms and calves to suit your specific needs. Choose from a great selection of designs and colors and get the maximum comfort from our unique blend of synthetic fabrics. Our compression products are made with anti-microbial technical fabric for ideal moisture and odor control. To add, they are stitched to provide the ultimate softness, comfort and fit.
We’ve got the science down when it comes to compression products, and we want you to reap the benefits. Shop PRO Compression today to get the best compression socks or sleeves.