Choosing Compression Socks For Travel: What You Need To Know

Why Compression Socks For Travel Make Sense

Whether you're gearing up for a long car ride or a long flight, it can be hard to keep your blood flowing in a healthy way when you're stationary for a long period of time. Compression socks are a great way to ensure that your blood continues to flow through your body, even as you're stuck in your seat for hours at a time. 

Sitting for long periods of time poses the risk of DVT, or deep vein thrombosis. This condition results in dangerous blood clots that can cause stroke or even death. Wearing compression socks puts pressure on the legs, and forces the blood to continue moving instead of pooling and clotting in one place. 

Does Everyone Need To Wear Compression Socks While Traveling?

Compression socks certainly can't hurt during travel, and it's fine to wear them even if you aren't in a high-risk group. People who have cancer, diabetes, have a sustained a fracture in your lower body, are pregnant or have had a baby recently, are overweight, or who smoke are at higher risk for DVT than people who don't have these risk factors. Taking certain medications, such as birth control, can also increase the risk of DVT. 

While compression socks are more important for people who have conditions or situations that put them at a higher risk for DVT, everyone can benefit from the pressure and promotion of blood flow offered by good compression socks for travel.

It's important to note that certain conditions may indicate that compression socks are not a good fit for you. If you deal with vascular necrosis, arterial disease, certain skin conditions, or other issues, the risks of using compression socks may outweigh the benefits. It's always a good idea to chat with your doctor before beginning any new health therapy. 

Types Of Compression Socks

When you're searching for compression socks for travel reviews, it's likely that you'll come across many different options. If you're new to the world of compression socks, you may be confused by the different levels of compression, and need help figuring out which options are the best for travel. 

Let's take a look at the different levels of compression offered by compression socks. Note that compression levels are listed in mmHg, or millimeters of mercury. Higher numbers equal more compression. 

• 8-15 mmHg - This level offers mild compression, and is a great fit for when you're dealing with achy legs after a workout. If you find that your legs get tired throughout the day from long periods of standing, mild compression stockings can help you to feel more energized throughout the day. 
• 15-20 mmHg - This moderate level of compression can prevent and provide relief from spider veins. This level of compression is great if you're dealing with swelling in your feet or lower legs, and can be helpful during pregnancy to prevent vein problems.
• 20-30 mmHg - Offering a firm level of compression, garments at this level are often used for people who have recently undergone a surgical procedure and are at a high risk for blood clots, or are suffering from edema. This level can also be useful for people who suffer from a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing after sitting for long periods of time. 
• 30-40 mmHg - This extra firm level of compression is typically only available by prescription. This level of compression can be used for many issues, including varicose veins, extreme edema and swelling, post-surgical treatment, low blood pressure, ulcers, and more. 

What Are The Best Compression Socks For Travel?

Experts agree that the best compression sock option for travel for most people is a pair of compression socks that offer moderate or firm compression. We recommend 15-20 medium support graduated compression for travel. Over time, you'll be able to figure out what level of compression garment works best for you, and you'll be able to know what's appropriate for a long flight or a long car ride. 

You'll find that within each level of compression, there are several different sock options, including: 

• Graduated compression socks - This option provides the highest level of support at the ankle, and gradually produces less compression as the sock comes to an end toward the knee or hip. These compression stockings are designed for people who are able to move freely.
• Anti-embolism stockings - Much like graduated compression socks, these socks offer varying degrees of compression. Anti-embolism stockings, however, are designed for people who are not mobile. 
• Non-medical support hosiery - Easily purchased in any grocery or drug store, non-medical support hosiery can be a quick and easy way to get the support that you need in a pinch.

Discount Surgical: Your Source For The Best Rated Compression Socks For Travel

At Discount Surgical, we're proud to offer cute compression socks for travel that can both keep you safe and help you feel confident and trendy. We know that the last thing you want is to look like you're wearing your grandma's stockings when you're traveling, and we've got you covered with the best compression socks on the market today. Browse our online store, and feel free to reach out with any questions. We look forward to provide you with the support you need to travel safely.