Buying socks seems simple enough but a huge confusion appears when comparing support socks with compression socks. Many manufacturers and distributors see the terms as being interchangeable. However, even if this can be seen as correct, there are differences when comparing with regular socks. We will stay focused on the main differences between the two so that you can know exactly what you are going to buy from a seller like Color4Care.
The Medical Benefits
The support stockings do have many medical benefits. This is one of the huge differences. High quality compression socks will offer compression therapy for legs that are tired and swollen. They are also highly recommended when a person has poor circulation. People do not need prescriptions when wearing them but medical advice is always advised. That would offer important information about wear regimen, size and type. This is where the medical professional will be able to give important advice.
Materials
A regular sock can be made out many materials, ranging from nylon to wool. A pair of compression stockings will include specific material blends, with a focus put on elasticity elements in order to offer a suitable compressive support.
Proper Fit
When wearing compression socks it is really important that a proper fit is achieved. The regular stockings and socks are regularly chosen based on the size of the shoe. With the compression option, the choice is based on ankle, leg and knee width and length. If the support sock does not have a good fit, beneficial medical properties are not gained. Compression amounts can vary from the leg to the ankle.
Proper Length
Socks are normally seen as knee high, calf high and ankle high. Choosing a pair is highly influenced by personal comfort and fashion trends. This is also the case with the compressive socks. If we talk about athletes and diabetics, the support stockings that are calf high are recommended. In other situations the socks are not even used as the solution for the patient is the full body suit. Height is normally chosen in order to offer support and compression for the region where circulation is bad.
Compression Sock Opacity
Contrary to popular belief, not all the compression socks will be opaque. Some brands will offer looks that are highly fashionable and the resemblance is similar to trouser socks. There are patients that will prepare thicker support socks in order to cover some discoloration and blemishes appearing because of various medical conditions like thrombophlebitis or varicose veins. Most of the everyday socks will be solid but nylon options are usually see through.
How Easy It Is To Find The Socks
The regular socks are really easy to find. You can see them in almost all clothes stores. This does include mini marts, drugstores and even department stores. When looking at the compression stockings, finding a pair is much more difficult. Based on where you live, it is normally a necessity to go online so that you can find a really good distributor that would deliver to your region.
