Compression Socks 101 for Nurses
While being a nurse is an extremely rewarding and life-changing profession, there are a couple pitfalls that come with the job. One of these is the amount of time nurses spend on their feet. Standing day after day for 12-hour shifts can really begin to wear on your body.
To relieve some of that wear and tear, many nurses wear compression socks. To help you find the best compression socks for your long days of work, we’ve put together a compression sock buying guide. Happy shopping!
What are compression socks?
Compression socks are socks that gently squeeze your legs to help circulate blood. According to Nurse Theory, “compression socks can help alleviate stress on the feet, improve blood flow/circulation and halt the progression of venous disorders.”1
Why should nurses have compression socks?
It’s no secret that nurses spend majority of their day on their feet. Compression socks can really come in handy to help prevent varicose veins and take stress off your feet.
Nurse Theory reminds us, “compression socks along with a good pair of nursing shoes can make a big difference in improving how a nurse feels throughout their work day.”1
What to look for when buying compression socks
Not all compression socks are equal. It’s important you know what to look for before you start spending money.
“It’s important to pick the right size for you when buying compression stockings,” Only a Nurse says. “When a stocking is under 10mmHg they are not very efficient at relieving leg fatigue and pain. On the other hand, stockings above 20mmHg may be a little uncomfortable. You should aim for stockings between the rand of 15 to 20mmHg.”2
It’s important you measure your leg before you purchase compression socks. Nurse Buff suggests measuring in the morning for the more accurate numbers. “The circumference of the bilateral ankle, calves, and thighs, and the measurement from foot to knee or foot to thigh should be determined.”3
Our list of compression sock recommendations for nurses
We’ve gathered a few of our favorite compression socks for nurses to help make your search a little easier. Again, remember to measure your legs before shopping!
Nurse Mates Women’s Compression Trouser Sock Ekg
PRICE: $10.79
RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Sockwell Women’s Chevron Moderate (15-20mmHg) Graduated Compression Socks
PRICE: $16.51 – $24.99
RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Men & Women Running Casual Socks by CompressionZ (Fun Patterns 20-30mmHg)
PRICE: $19.99 – $24.99
RATING: 4 out of 5 stars
Graduated Compression Socks by Kunto Fitness
PRICE: $18.99
RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Compression Support Socks for Men & Women by AprilTex
PRICE: $19.90
RATING: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Remember, by using good, supportive shoes and compression socks while on the job now, can save you a lot of trouble and injury down the road. Use this guide to invest in a good pair of compression socks to use while on the job!
What brand of compression socks do you use while working? Tell us in the comments below!
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