If you have a major surgery coming up, your doctor may recommend wearing compression stockings during the recovery process. Graduated compression socks boost blood flow to promote four major benefits for post-surgery patients — improved circulation, reduced swelling, lower risk of DVT, and safer recovery.
Before jumping into these benefits, remember — you should only wear compression socks after surgery if your doctor explicitly instructs you to. If you think you might benefit from compression stockings, but your doctor hasn’t mentioned them yet, bring up the subject before going out and buying any.
What Type of Compression Socks To Wear After Surgery
Choosing the right compression sock after surgery is more than just a matter of comfort; it's about promoting optimal recovery and ensuring your health. Compression stockings serve various purposes, from enhancing blood flow and reducing leg pain to preventing conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Here's a breakdown of the types and levels of compression socks available:
Graduated compression socks are the most common type of compression socks. They are tighter around the ankles and become looser as they move up the leg. This helps to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. Graduated compression stockings come in a range of compression strengths, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The compression strength that you need will depend on your individual needs and your doctor's recommendation.
TED hose or anti-embolism socks are specifically designed for use after surgery or for people who need to stay in bed. They apply more pressure than graduated compression stockings and help to maintain blood circulation and reduce the risk of severe swelling.
Compression Levels Explained:
- Low Compression: Delivering less than 20 mmHg, these are ideal for general comfort and daily wear.
- Medium Compression: With a tightness range of 20 to 30 mmHg, they're perfect for individuals who've experienced DVT or varicose veins, effectively managing swelling and discomfort.
- Moderate to High Compression: Offering between 30 and 40 mmHg, these are reserved for those grappling with pronounced pain or swelling.
- Firm Compression: Providing between 40 and 50 mmHg, these are typically chosen by individuals with a history of severe venous conditions or blood clots.
Here is a more detailed overview of the different types of compression socks that are available:
- Knee-high compression socks: Knee-high compression socks are the most common type of compression socks. They extend from the toes to just below the knee. Knee-high compression socks are a good choice for people who have had surgery on their legs or feet.
- Thigh-high compression socks: Thigh-high compression socks extend from the toes to just below the thigh. Thigh-high compression socks are a good choice for people who have had surgery on their hips or pelvis.
- Waist-high compression socks: Waist-high compression socks extend from the toes to the waist. Waist-high compression socks are a good choice for people who have had surgery on their abdomen or chest.
- Open-toe compression socks: Open-toe compression socks have an open-toe design, which can be more comfortable for people with diabetes or other conditions that affect the feet.
- Closed-toe compression socks: Closed-toe compression socks have a closed-toe design, which provides more support and coverage for the toes.
In addition to the different types of compression socks, there are also a variety of different materials that compression socks can be made from. Some common materials include:
Nylon: Nylon is a durable and lightweight material that is often used to make compression socks.
Spandex: Spandex is a stretchy material that helps compression socks to fit snugly without being too tight.
Merino wool: Merino wool is a natural fiber that is known for its wicking and temperature-regulating properties. Merino wool compression socks can be a good choice for people who live in hot climates or who are active.
When choosing compression socks after surgery, it is important to select socks that are the right size and compression strength for your needs. It is also important to choose socks that are made from a material that is comfortable and breathable.
If you are looking for compression socks to wear after surgery, we encourage you to browse our collection. We are confident that you will find the perfect pair of socks to meet your needs.
Feetures offers a wide variety of compression socks for men and women. Therefore, If you end up needing mild to moderate compression stockings, Feetures has what you’re looking for. Our graduated knee-high compression socks provide an unmatched, custom-like fit, with anatomical right and left foot designs for an enhanced fit. The seamless toe also makes our compression socks comfortable to wear with shoes.
How Long Should You Wear Compression Socks After Surgery?
If your doctor recommends compression socks, follow their instructions carefully. In general, you should wear your compression socks as much as possible, both during the day and while sleeping at night, at least for the first few days after surgery, and then as directed by your surgeon. The length of time you need to wear compression socks will depend on the type of surgery you had and your individual recovery process.
For example, if you had knee replacement surgery, you may be instructed to wear compression socks for 2-4 weeks post-surgery. In the case of vein surgery, the recommended time may be longer, up to 6-8 weeks or even more.
It is important to note that compression socks should not be worn too tightly, as this can restrict blood flow. If you experience any discomfort, remove your socks immediately and consult with your doctor.
After your recovery from surgery, you may find you want to continue wearing your compression socks (with your doctor’s permission, of course). This is a great way to maintain optimal blood flow to reduce muscle aches and symptoms of varicose veins.
Benefits of Wearing Compression Socks After Surgery
Compression Socks Improve Circulation
You may need to limit your physical activities or even go on bed rest for a while as you recover from surgery. Unfortunately, lying around leads to bad circulation, which is exactly the opposite of what your body needs to heal. That’s where graduated compression socks come in. These stockings apply gentle pressure to encourage venous circulation even while confined to your bed.
Compression Socks Reduce Swelling
Minor inflammation is an anticipated and even beneficial part of recovering from surgery. However, extreme swelling can hamper your recovery and lead to complications. Compression socks help alleviate this problem because the tight fit prevents your skin from expanding beyond a certain point. This forces fluid to dissipate so it doesn’t build up in one area. For the best results, put on your compression stockings before any major swelling sets in.
Compression Socks Lower the Risk of DVT
Deep vein thrombosis is when blood clots develop in the veins deep within your legs. If the clot breaks off and travels through your veins, it can lodge in your lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism. Patients undergoing hip, knee, leg, and abdominal surgery have a higher chance of DVT, especially if general anesthesia is required for more than 90 minutes. Remaining bedridden or in a wheelchair after surgery also increases the risk of DVT.
Luckily, wearing graduated compression socks can lower your risk by improving circulation and reducing swelling. Other tips to prevent DVT include drinking enough fluids, moving around as much as possible after your operation, and taking any anticoagulant medication your doctor prescribes.
Compression Socks Promote a Safer Recovery
By keeping your blood flowing and preventing complications after surgery, compression socks can speed up your recovery time and help you return to your regular activities sooner. They are also noninvasive, drug-free, and relatively inexpensive, making them a great complement to other medical treatments.
Browse our collections of compression socks for women and men to find the perfect fit. Thanks to our lifetime guarantee, you can try a pair risk-free!
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