Get rid of misconceptions on compression wear

Get rid of misconceptions on compression wear

Compression stockings are for grandmothers

For many people, medical compression stockings evoke an unshakeable image of the «varicose vein stockings» their grandmothers wore. Advancements in technology have led to a true aesthetic revolution. These days, you almost forget the stockings have any medical purpose. While they remain as effective as ever, they are now much more up to date with contemporary hosiery. Modern medical compression stockings are also comfortable, which is vital to the success of the treatment.

Compression wear makes you feel too hot

Hot weather makes venous disorders worse. At a time when they need compression stockings the most, many patients stop wearing them. By improving circulation, medical compression stockings provide great relief, as well as an immediate feeling of lightness.

Compression garments are a nightmare to get on

Remember two words: method and material.

• Method: Medical compression stockings should not be put on like normal stockings because they are made differently than traditional hosiery. They are designed to be tightest at the ankle and decrease in compression going up the leg to promote upward blood flow. There are donning aids ((link to “medical how to donning aids” for simple stocking application and removal should you need extra help.
• Material: Thanks to state-of-the-art knowledge in medical science, material science, and manufacturing technologies, Sigvaris medical compression stockings are made with flexible and particularly stretchy materials, making them easier to put on.

Compression wear is too tight

Sigvaris prides itself in providing products that deliver a comfortable fit and the compression strength recommended by the physician. To be effective, medical compression hosiery must be right for the individual’s body shape and needs. Therefore, it is vital to see a health professional to ensure that the correct hosiery size and compression level is chosen.

7 myths about compression wear busted

If you've never worn compression socks or compression stockings, you probably have some mistaken ideas about them and their use. There's a lot of misinformation out there. It's time to debunk some long-standing myths.

Myth #1:  Compression socks are only for people with a medical problem.

It's true that compression socks help prevent spider veins and varicose veins, and treat edema, among other chronic venous disorders. And they're a prescription item for people with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, phlebitis, and venous leg ulcers.

But compression socks are also for everyday wear. They're intended to promote healthy circulation in people engaged in any kind of work or recreation. Anyone with a job that requires sitting or standing for long periods of time, travelers confined to car or plane seats for more than a few hours, and athletes whose sports involve running can benefit from compression.

Some people believe compression socks can actually cut off circulation and are therefore dangerous, but properly sized compression socks won't cut off circulation.

TRUTH: Compression socks benefit everyone.

Myth #2: Compression socks are ugly.

Today, stylish casual and dress compression socks and stockings are available in a variety of fibers like cotton, wool, spandex, and nylon. They come in bright colors, patterns, and prints. You will also find them in three lengths: knee-high, thigh-high, and pantyhose. You can choose from sheer and opaque. The options available are so beautiful and stylish, there's really no visible indication of their medical efficacy. You'll simply feel the benefits as you go through your day.

Advances in research and design also mean that today's compression socks offer more performance features. You can buy socks that absorb and wick moisture, have antibacterial, odor-reducing properties, and provide irritation-free flat toe seams.

TRUTH: Compression socks are fashionable.

Myth #3: Compression socks are hard to put on and take off.

Today, new technology and materials make compression socks more comfortable and functional. However, there are certain standard techniques that make it easy to put them on and take them off.

For example, never bunch them up. Instead, grab the heel pocket and turn the sock inside out. Slide the sock halfway onto your foot. Hold both sides of the top band and pull the sock over your heel and up your calf. Adjust the heel pocket and smooth out any wrinkles. The band should be the width of two fingers from the bend of your knee.

In addition, there are several accessories such as donning butlers, special rubber gloves, and roll-on adhesives that are easy to use.

TRUTH: Proper techniques make compression socks easier to put on and take off.

Myth #4: Compression socks are expensive.

Because compression socks are considered a medical product intended to meet a medical need, they must also meet standards of performance. Compliance with those standards determines what materials are used, the fabric finish, the technique used in weaving, and the level of compression -- all of these things contribute to the cost. Durability, ease of care, and quality assurance are also features of a premium brand like Sigvaris.   

Sigvaris offers several lines of premium compression socks at various price points, so you can find something affordable. 

TRUTH: A wide selection of quality compression socks are affordable.

Myth #5: You shouldn't wear compression socks in the summer.

There's no off-season for healthy legs. In warm or hot weather, you have an increased risk of weakening or damaging the veins in your legs, so you may be putting yourself in danger if you believe that compression socks are too hot for summer wear. What's more, you can choose sheer, breathable compression socks that actually make your legs feel cooler and more comfortable.

TRUTH: The right pair of compression socks will be comfortable in warm weather.

Myth #6: Compression socks are useful for weight loss.

Some people believe that compression socks help you lose weight or remove cellulite. Have you ever heard of "Japanese Slimming Socks?" That's just one iteration of the empty promise that compression socks and stockings, or compression wear of any kind, will help you lose weight. Unfortunately, compression isn't a substitute diet and exercise. Nothing you can wear will help you shed pounds.

TRUTH: Compression socks won’t help you lose weight.

Myth #7: Compression socks can heal injuries.

Compression socks are intended to prevent or slow the progression of venous disorders. They help increase circulation and prevent the formation of blood clots in the lower legs. While they do provide therapeutic support, they can't heal leg injuries.

TRUTH: Compression socks won’t heal injuries.