“There are usually two numbers, which is the pressure measured at the ankle and the calf. “Medical grade compression socks are rated in millimeters of mercury (mmHg),” explains Dr. Next, you’ll want to figure out the correct amount of pressure. I also do not recommend the open toe, as often these can lead to fluid accumulating in the open part of the end of the foot.” … More extensive garments are usually not required and may even be more uncomfortable for travel. “In my opinion calf-high are the easiest to put on. “Compression socks/stockings are made in a variety of configurations (calf-high, low-thigh, high-thigh, pantyhose, open and closed toe),” says Dr. If you’re not enlisting the help of your doctor, here are a few factors to think about.įirst off, consider the height of the socks. With such a wide array of compression socks available, it can be difficult to figure out which ones you should choose. The socks come in a range of colors and patterns, so you don’t have to settle for boring black or beige. Online retailers that offer compression socks include Amazon, Walgreens, CVS, FIGS, Comrad, and Mojo Socks, among many others. Michael Ombrellino, recommends against compression socks for patients with severe peripheral arterial disease. Levison says that compression socks can be uncomfortable for people with open wounds on their legs, while his colleague at The Cardiovascular Care Group, vascular surgeon Dr. While most travelers can wear compression socks without issues, they might not be a good fit for those with select medical conditions. Is There Anyone Who Shouldn’t Wear Compression Socks? Tumen notes that smokers and women on birth control pills may also have increased clotting risk. Monique May, a board-certified family physician.ĭr. “Those at higher risk for clots, such as pregnant women, obese people, people with clotting problems (including cancer patients), varicose veins, and those who have already had a clot, should see their physician for a prescription to make they are getting the correct size and amount of pressure,” advises Dr. Most travelers can benefit from wearing compression socks, but they’re particularly important for people with certain health conditions. “The theory is that the compression helps blood circulate better, which in turns allows more oxygen to get to the tissues.” Gaines, founder and CEO of NOWmed Walk-In Urgent Care in Jersey City, New Jersey. “Scientific studies so far are conflicting, but anecdotally some elite and novice runners swear by compression stockings worn during or immediately after a run to reduce muscle soreness fatigue and produce faster lactate recovery,” says Dr. … I wear them daily as a surgeon, as I am standing in one place for extended periods.”Ĭompression socks may also be useful for travelers who plan to be active once they arrive in their destination. Levison, a vascular surgeon at The Cardiovascular Care Group in New Jersey, explains that compression socks can help reduce the uncomfortable swelling in the legs that’s common on long flights due to inactivity, changes in air pressure, and exposure to high-sodium foods: “Compression socks/stockings will help prevent the accumulation of fluid in the lower part of the leg where the symptoms from swelling are usually most notable. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else.'Įmail Sarah at DVT is most often linked to air travel, WHO notes that it can be a risk on long car or train rides as well.Ĭompression socks have other benefits for travelers besides cutting down on your DVT risk. Travel Motto: ''To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'-Freya Stark'Īisle, Window, or Middle Seat: 'Aisle. Ultimate Bucket List Experience: 'Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia.' Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories.' Follow her on Twitter Handy Item I Always Pack: 'A journal. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires-no humans or animals were harmed). Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can.

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