If compression socks support healthy circulation throughout the day, do they also support healthy circulation throughout the night? Sleeping in compression socks is a great way to reap the benefits of compression therapy - more blood flow and less swelling. However, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to wearing compression socks while you sleep. The benefits of compression socks are most apparent when standing or sitting in an upright position. When lying down, your blood does not need to resist gravity to flow from your feet to your heart.

This article will show how compression socks work, when you should wear compression socks in bed. And then you will get to know the answer to the question we asked at the beginning.

What are compression socks？

Compression socks are flexible garments that compress the calf to reduce the pressure in the veins and improve circulation. The compression level is highest at the ankle and decreases gradually in the direction of the knee. Often used for people who suffer from varicose veins and who need to stand for a long time, compression socks are also a great measure to reduce the risk of developing them in the first place.

 There are different classifications of compression socks

1.Prescription compression sock

You usually need to have a prescription from your doctor to buy these compression socks. When you buy these socks, you should have a prescription that includes the "strength" of the compression level and indicates the recommended length of the compression socks: below the knee, thigh-high, or full-length pantyhose.

2.Over-the-counter compression sock

 You can wear these compression socks for daily wear, travel, and leg health. People can wear compression socks during the day, reducing the pain in their legs from standing.

3.Compression socks for diabetics

Specific socks, such as diabetic compression socks, can help improve lower leg circulation and force blood flow to the patient's feet.  

How do compression socks work?

Compression socks would gently squeeze the leg, increasing the pressure on the subcutaneous tissue and reducing and preventing leg swelling. Compression socks counteract the increased pressure in the veins. This function helps blood flow back to the heart. If blood pools in the veins of the legs, it can lead to various problems such as skin changes, inflammation of the veins, varicose veins, etc. These compression socks are also suitable for people who do not have vein problems. Compression socks can reduce leg swelling in people who stand all day or are sedentary (such as on long flights).

Should you wear compression socks to bed?

Can you improve the effectiveness of compression socks by wearing them both during the day and at night? It is not necessary. When you stand up and move around, gravity acts on your blood vessels, and the compression socks ship its effect, but when you lie down, you eliminate the effect of gravity. So, there is no reason to wear compression socks when lying down or sleeping. When you fall asleep, your compression socks may get knotted or twisted; if this happens, the compression can cut off blood circulation to your legs and feet and become very dangerous. Also, wearing them 24/7 can be damaging to your skin. Evenings are a good time to take them off, put on some lotion, and let your skin breathe.

 However, wearing compression socks while sleeping is not necessarily harmful, but it is more important to follow medical advice. Most doctors agree that wearing graduated compression socks while you sleep is unnecessary. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

1. Doctors sometimes prescribe special compression garments, such as ulcer packs and anti-embolism stockings, specifically for overnight use.
2. Many healthcare providers agree that wearing compression socks while hanging out or taking a nap is safe.
3. Compression socks can have important health benefits when on a long-haul flight.

Before applying compression throughout the night, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

Wearing compression socks all day, especially when standing, sitting, or exercising, usually gives you ample medical benefits. Other than the use cases mentioned above, there is no need to wear compression socks overnight.

At the end of the article, you clearly understood when you should wear compression socks to bed. And we have recommended you buy a compression sock at Comfort-Fresh store, offering compression socks in various sizes, colors, and styles, all at the best prices.