Don’t Sacrifice Your Leg Health For 12-Hour Nursing Shifts
*Post contains affiliate links/Updated from 12/2018
If there is one profession that needs compression socks, it’s nurses (or any healthcare professional who is on their feet for long shifts). Knee high compression socks are beneficial for leg health for the following reasons:
- Prevent or reduce varicose veins
- Improve the flow of blood and decrease the risk of blood clots
- Decrease or prevent swelling of the lower legs and ankles
Compression socks always improved my lower leg muscle fatigue and made my legs feel more energized at the end of a shift. I started wearing them to have more support when I was pregnant and was able to continue working as an ER nurse until I was almost eight and a half months pregnant.
I have always appreciated that my job as a medical professional is not sedentary. But as it turns out, being on my feet for such long hours can be worse for my health than sitting all day. Compression therapy is one of the best ways for many nurses to prevent some of the chronic leg health issues that come with working in a profession that requires being on your feet all day (hello, nurses!)
How We Chose the Best Compression Socks For Nurses & Healthcare Workers
We chose these top-rated compression socks for nurses based on factors like comfort, durability, prevention of foot odor, and any additional features like arch support, padding in sensitive areas, and breathable fabric. We also considered customer reviews and ratings to ensure that nurses are getting the best socks for their needs. So, whether you need something lightweight and breathable or want a bit more cushioning with your socks, we’ve got you covered!
We hope you enjoy your selection of compression socks and that they help you to stay comfortable and healthy on the job.
The Best Compression Socks for Nurses and Medical Professionals
Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks for Men & Women 20-30 mmHg
♥ Over 70,000 Customer Reviews & Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Why We Love Them
Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks are designed with a unique blend of spandex and nylon that offers superior comfort for long shifts on your feet. The 20-30 mmHg pressure rating ensures that you get the right amount of support to help reduce swollen legs and feet. They’re also breathable, moisture-wicking, and feature an antibacterial finish to help you stay fresh during the day. Plus, they come in a variety of fun colors and patterns so you can show off your style.
Product Features
- Made of 70% Nylon and 30% Spandex
- Hand wash only
- Designed for style and confidence on your legs
- Double-stitched fabric for durability and comfort
- Compression and support located on the heel, foot, and calves for maximum benefits
- Moisture-wicking properties for rapid air drying
- Stay-put cuffs for a soothing feeling at the bottom and sides of the foot with no pinching
- Washable with quality Lycra fabric built for durability
- Provides shock absorption to reduce fatigue and swelling in your lower leg.
CHARMKING Compression Socks for Women & Men Circulation (8 Pairs) 15-20 mmHg
♥ Over 70,000 Customer Reviews & Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Why We Love Them
These compression socks are available in various colors, sizes, and compression levels to suit your needs. And because it comes in packs of seven, you have fun styles for every day of the week without needing to do the wash.
♥ Over 70,000 Customer Reviews & Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Product Features
- Get a multicolor combo of your choice with these compression socks. Perfect for a whole week without daily wash.
- Made of 85% nylon and 15% spandex, these socks deliver 360-degree stretch for greater flexibility and durability.
- Compression is proven to allow you to move faster, react quicker, and use less energy. These socks provide varying levels of support, from moderate to extra firm, with targeted compression zones.
- The breathable, high-performance fabric keeps an optimal temperature, ensuring your comfort all day long.
- These socks make a great gift choice for joggers, athletes, workout fanatics, office workers, or anyone who uses their legs extensively.
- Shop with confidence, knowing that this product comes with a money-back guarantee. Whether you work long hours standing on your feet or have a fitness lifestyle, these compression socks are necessary.
FITRELL 3 Pairs Compression Socks for Women and Men 20-30mmHg
♥ Over 16,000 Customer Reviews & Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Why We Love Them
FITRELL 3 Pairs Compression Socks offer superior comfort and support. Their graduated compression helps to improve circulation and reduce swelling, while the ergonomic design ensures a secure fit. The breathable fabric is designed to keep you cool and dry all day long, while the reinforced heel and toe provide extra durability. Plus, with a money-back guarantee, you can be sure you’re getting the highest quality product.
Product Features
- Material: 72.1% polyamide, 18.4% polyester, 9.5% spandex
- Machine washable
- Size Tips: Choose based on calf size for optimal compression (20-30 mmHg). Size down for tighter compression.
- Sizing options: S/M (Calf size 9-15in, Men’s US shoes 6-8.5, Women’s US shoes 7-9.5), L/XL (Calf size 14-16in, Men’s US shoes 9-12, Women’s US shoes 10-12)
- Moisture-wicking & Breathable: High-performance fabric with a moisture-wicking effect keeps feet dry and mesh design allows for breathability.
- Seamless toe reduces friction, and thick, soft cushions in the sole absorb shock and prevent overuse injuries.
- Circulation & Muscle Support: 5 zones of graduated compression boost venous flow, protect the Plantar Fascia, support the Achilles, improve circulation, and reduce swelling. Helps relieve shin splints, and painful joint and muscle stiffness, reduces fatigue, and treats varicose veins.
4. SB SOX Compression Socks (20-30mmHg) for Men & Women
♥ Over 50,000 Customer Reviews & Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Why We Love Them
SB SOX compression therapy socks provide a comfortable, snug fit that offers extra stability and support. These non-binding socks are ideal for running, walking, sports activities, and even 12-hour nursing shifts.
Product Features
- The socks are made of 80% nylon and 20% spandex and are imported.
- These compression socks improve blood circulation and provide relief from leg pain, swelling, and fatigue. They are a must-have for anyone who needs such support.
- The socks are designed to be comfortable, lightweight, and breathable so that you can wear them all day long. The reinforced and cushioned heel and toe support ensure unmatched comfort.
- The graduated compression of these socks decreases swelling and fatigue in your feet and legs, making them ideal for any activity.
- Our socks are highly recommended by repeat customers who come back to buy another pair after trying them. We offer several different colors to choose from.
- To find your perfect fit, refer to our size chart (4th product image) and measure your calf circumference. We offer four different sizes to ensure the socks fit your feet and calves perfectly.
How do Compression Socks Work?
Compression socks work to improve blood circulation by helping increase the velocity or speed of blood flow. By squeezing the legs, the veins carrying blood to the heart are compressed. Think of how when you squeeze a hose, it squirts the water out faster. With compression stockings, the same volume of blood can move up the leg, but it has less area in which to move.
Compression socks work by:
Improving blood flow: The pressure applied by compression socks helps to improve blood flow in the legs, promoting better circulation and reducing the risk of blood clots.
Reducing swelling: Compression socks can help the legs by preventing fluid build up, particularly after long periods of sitting or standing. They may also help to relieve pain in the legs.
Providing support: Compression socks provide support to the muscles and joints in the legs, which can help to prevent or reduce injuries and improve athletic performance.
Decreases fatigue: Compression socks can reduce leg fatigue by improving blood flow and providing extra support, particularly during long periods of standing or physical activity.
Helps with recovery: Compression socks can also aid in muscle recovery after physical activity by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.
Medical compression stockings for the treatment of varicose veins.
Understanding Compression Sock Levels
Choosing the right compression socks can be difficult if you do not understand what a compression level means. Compression socks have a range of numbers to indicate how much graduated compression the garment has. Here is a quick and dirty breakdown:
- 15-20 mmHg
- Suitable for everyday wear to help with welling and fatigued legs due to long periods of travel, sitting, or standing.
- 20-30 mmHg
- Medical grade compression. Useful for managing swelling, spider veins, travel, sports, and after some surgeries. Also suitable for pregnant mothers to alleviate swelling and achy legs.
- 30-40 mmHg
- Recommended when you have a blood clot, deep vein thrombosis DVT, or lymphedema.
- 40-50 mmHg
- robust compression for severe venous stasis, wound management, and lymphedema.
The unit of measurement (mmHg) is called “millimeters of mercury,” which is a measurement of pressure, also used in blood pressure. It is a measurement of how tight the compression on your legs is.
The sweet spot for nurses and other medical professionals on their feet all day usually falls in the 20-30 mmHg range to ensure enough compression.
You should discuss compression stockings with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any medical conditions.
Keep in mind that you get what you pay for when it comes to good compression stocks. Generally speaking, with all products, if the price seems too good to be true, then it probably is.
Healthcare professionals should consider wearing compression socks.
Compressions Socks for Nurses and Healthcare Professionals Frequently Asked Questions
What do compression socks do for you?
Compression socks apply pressure to the legs, ankles, and feet, promoting blood oxygen flow and reducing swelling. They can improve circulation in the lower extremities, reduce muscle fatigue and soreness, prevent blood clots, and help manage conditions like varicose veins and lymphedema. If you have swollen feet and ankles or tired legs at the end of a shift, compression socks may help you. Talk to your healthcare provider to make sure there is not a more serious medical condition.
How many hours should you wear compression socks?
The recommended duration of compression sock wear varies depending on the reason for use. Talk to your doctor about what a safe level is for you. In general, it is safe to wear compression socks for up to 16 hours a day.
Is there a downside to wearing compression socks?
Compression socks can sometimes cause discomfort, skin irritation, or allergic reactions. Additionally, compression socks with too much pressure can potentially restrict blood flow instead of improving it. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using compression socks.
What level of compression socks do I need?
The level of compression socks you need depends on your individual needs and the reason for use. Mild compression (8-15 mmHg) is typically used for preventative purposes, while moderate compression (15-20 mmHg) is used for mild swelling and varicose veins. Higher levels of compression, such as 20-30 mmHg or 30-40 mmHg, are typically used for more severe conditions and require a prescription.
What does 20-30 mmHg compression socks mean?
The term “20-30 mmHg” refers to the level of pressure exerted by the compression socks on the legs. This range of pressure is considered moderate to high and is typically used to treat conditions like deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins, and lymphedema.
What is the difference between 8-15 mmHg and 15-20 mmHg compression socks?
The main difference between 8-15 mmHg and 15-20 mmHg compression socks is the level of pressure they exert on the legs. 8-15 mmHg compression socks provide mild pressure, making them suitable for preventative use and for individuals who stand or sit for long periods. 15-20 mmHg compression socks provide moderate pressure, making them suitable for individuals with mild swelling or varicose veins.
How tight should 20-30 compression socks be?
20-30 mmHg compression socks should fit snugly, but not be overly tight or uncomfortable. The pressure should be evenly distributed along the legs, with the highest pressure at the ankle and gradually decreasing up the leg.
Can you sleep in 15-20 mmHg compression socks?
While it is generally safe to sleep in 15-20 mmHg compression socks, it is not recommended to do so without consulting a healthcare provider first. Some individuals may find compression socks uncomfortable to sleep in, and others may not need compression while lying down.
Do you need a prescription for 20-30 compression socks? In most cases, 20-30 mmHg compression socks require a prescription from a healthcare provider. However, some compression socks in this range may be available without a prescription, depending on the brand and intended use.
Where does the fluid go when you wear compression socks? Compression socks help to push fluid and blood from the legs back up to the heart. The pressure applied by the socks compresses the tissues in the legs and helps to reduce the diameter of the veins, improving blood flow and reducing swelling. The fluid and blood then circulate back through the body’s lymphatic system and are filtered out by the kidneys and liver.
Sacrificing Your Leg Health is Just Not Worth It.
Healthcare professionals such as nurses spend a lot of time on their feet and experience enough occupational hazards during a nursing shift as it is. Make sure you have on a pair of compression socks or stockings during every single shift. You can help to prevent future circulation and venous issues and still have a long, rewarding medical field career as a nurse.
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