Travel compression socks have been of great use to seasoned travelers for the past few decades. Its ability to reduce leg pain on international flights is legendary. There are different compression strengths, ranging from 10 to 50 mmHg (millimeters of mercury). In most countries, you can buy any non-prescription compression sock that is 20 mmHg or less; anything in excess of this amount will require a prescription from your doctor.
A word of advice: diabetics should not wear compression socks as they will greatly increase blood circulation in the legs and feet.
The real value of travel compression socks is seen on long international flights, and once you start wearing them, you will never go back. I recommend packing two or three pairs on your next trip: one for the flight there, one for any weather at altitudes above 3000 meters, and a third for any strenuous activity that can cause leg pain (e.g. walking, riding bike or jog). ).
If you bought non-prescription strength travel compression socks, you can wear them all day; If you got them from your doctor, you should ask them about proper use. It bears repeating that diabetics should not wear these socks.
Many travelers will also wear compression socks when hiking, especially at high altitudes. They are safe to wear throughout the day (if they are over the counter) and many people enjoy them even when they are not traveling.
Alright, enough of the health benefits, what about fashion? Do not worry; Compression socks range from knee to ankle. Hell, they even sell pantyhose style socks now!