The Who, What and Why of Compression

“…I have not been told that I *need* to wear compression socks for medical/therapeutic purposes.

But some days I do. Why?  

Well, quite simply, because compression socks are…”

What are compression socks and how do they work? Compression socks are woven to apply pressure to your calves and ankles. In graduated compression socks the level of compression is strongest at the ankle and gradually decreases towards the top of the sock. Typically the pressure is 100% at the ankle, 70% at the calf and 40% at the cuff. The pressure from the sock may reduce the diameter of major veins by increasing the volume and velocity of blood flow, help blood flow up toward the heart, and help prevent blood from refluxing downward to the foot or laterally...