If you are a healthcare worker such as a nurse, wearing compression socks is crucial for your occupation. Since your field of work requires you to be on your feet for extended periods, there is a tendency that your lower extremities will quickly get fatigued. Not only that, the risk of developing venous problems such as spider and varicose veins is high.
An essential aspect to look into in choosing the right compression socks is the pressure level. This will help you be more efficient during work hours and lessen muscle strain.
1. Compression Socks Guide
There are several things to look into when choosing the right pair of support socks, and these are:
When choosing the type of fabric or material, you need to ensure that you will not have any allergic reaction. Since you will be wearing the garment for hours on end daily, you will need to choose the best type of fabric.
Available types of materials are but not limited to:
In most cases, these fabrics are combined for their quality and comfortability. These are just the most common fabric being used, but more kinds of materials are available in the market. Most brands would offer breathable fabrics to ensure that they will not harm the skin.
Different lengths for these support socks provide pressure on the lower extremities’ specific areas.
Depending on the coverage you want or need, you can choose which length will satisfy your comfort.
Along with these specifics, you can also choose different designs for your liking, mood, or dress code at your workplace. When it comes to size, if you purchase over-the-counter compression socks, you only need to determine your leg size to get the perfect fit. But if you have a specific medical condition, it would always be best to refer to your professional healthcare for the fitting.
2. Best mmHg Compression Socks for Nurses
Perhaps the most vital aspect of compression socks is their pressure level. The pressure level provides support and therapy for the ankle, legs, and feet, enabling you to go through your day with lesser pain and discomfort throughout your shift.
With all this information, you may be asking what level of compression socks you should use as a nurse? And what would be the best type to use, as well? Here are some things that you can consider when choosing your pair.
Compression Levels
There are different pressure levels of compression socks, and your health status will determine which pressure level is suitable for you to use. Here are the various pressure levels:
A 15-20 mmHg pressure level is best recommended for nurses or healthcare professionals. It provides that gentle support that will be comfortable and easy for the legs to move. However, you may go up to 20-30 mmHg if firmer support is needed.
*Note, if you have a medical condition, you may refer to your doctor before purchasing a pair.
Types of Compression Socks
Another consideration for compression socks is the type. There are three types of compression socks, and these are:
In terms of type, graduated compression stockings for nurses are the most efficient and are recommendable because it promotes healthy circulation and provides comfort that you will need throughout your work hours. Since the pressure level decreases upwards, it will not be that constant pressure which can also be tiring at some point.
Choosing the style, pressure level, and type of compression socks will always depend on your comfortability. Having the perfect fit will be vital in maximizing your legs’ stamina during your work hours.
Remember, if you believe that you are healthy and will not have any health risk when wearing compression socks, you may avail of the over-the-counter compression socks. However, for those whose health can be at risk, be wary of your medical condition and refer to your doctor for proper guidance when using compression socks.
Unisex
8-15 mmHg