Latest news with #compressionSocks
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Travel + Leisure
7 days ago
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
I Fly Across the Atlantic Every Month and Couldn't Do It Without These $20 Socks
I'm a travel writer, and last month's rose was getting to spend six glorious days sipping rosé and playing with free-range pigs at Spier Wine Farm in South Africa. The thorn? The swollen ankle I had when I arrived. Admittedly, it was my fault, and was the result of an experiment: What would happen if I only wore one knee-high compression sock on the 15-hour flight from Newark to Cape Town? On my other foot, I would wear a regular ankle sock in order to see just how effective compression socks can be for improving circulation while in the air. Surely, after 10 years of flying across the Atlantic on a monthly basis for my career, my body has acclimated to spending hours at high altitudes—right? Spoiler alert: I couldn't. As it turns out, you can have million miler status and will still want to wear compression socks on long-haul flights, and my inflamed ankle was proof. In a few weeks, I'll be flying 30 hours to Nairobi before embarking on Micato Safaris' 14-day Hemingway Wing Safari (which involves another five domestic flights while inside Africa). For this trip, I'll be embracing my inner flight attendant. Compression socks are among the items cabin crew can't live without, and after trying them out for myself, I know that I can't, either. That's why the first thing I pack in my carry-on is my beloved Charmking Compression Socks from Amazon. Here's how both of my legs and feet looked prior to my flight. Instead of scrolling through Amazon's endless pages of compression socks with a fine-tooth comb, I bought the Charmking compression socks because they were the most popular. With nearly 10,000 pairs purchased in the last month alone, they're ranked No. 1 on Amazon's list of Best-ellers in Medical Compression Socks. These socks offer a targeted compression grade ranging from 15 mmHg to 20 mmHg—there is more compression at the ankle than the toes and shins—which Dr. Diana Levin Valencia, DPM, previously told Travel + Leisure is a great starting point if you're new to compression socks. Left: After wearing a compression sock. Right: After wearing a normal ankle sock. They're made with a moisture-wicking nylon and spandex blend that is surprisingly breathable. I wore them while flying 60 hours round-trip to the Maldives in March, and the seaplane flights to and from the resort were especially hot. Still, my feet didn't sweat. These socks aren't quite as soft as my Vuori Performance Joggers (which are so soft, I'd wash my face with them). However, they don't feel scratchy or stiff, despite the no-slip cuff that keeps them from sliding down. Speaking of shoes, I love that my Charmking compression socks are thin enough that my feet can still fit comfortably in my snug On Cloud 6 Sneakers, which I like to fly in because they're so easy to take on and off. Because these knee-high socks aren't bulky, I can even comfortably wear them under my Lululemon Align leggings. That said, these socks are definitely tight; like skinny jeans, I can't take them off without them turning inside out. But, in my opinion, that's just an added bonus: Washing your socks (or any item of clothing, really) inside out helps to preserve their color. As you can see, the swelling on my non-compression sock foot was no joke. These socks are available in more than three dozen color combinations with tons of patterns to choose from. You can choose solid colors like I did, or play around with florals, polka dots, stripes, and fun, eye-catching prints. These socks come in two sizes: Small/medium and large/extra large, and as a size 9, the small/medium size fit me just fine. These Charmking compression socks also have far more five-star ratings than similar products: We're talking nearly 62,000 five-star ratings and nearly 13,000 five-star reviews, many of which come from frequent fliers and flight attendants. 'These are easy to put on and make my calves not ache from a long day on my feet in the air,' wrote one flight attendant. 'The nice designs are an added bonus that get compliments regularly,' added another flight attendant, and one reviewer who travels for work reported that they were 'very helpful' for staying comfortable on recent trips to New Zealand and Australia. At around $3 per pair, these compression socks are a steal. If you do want to shop around, and not just go with the presumed GOAT like I did, below are a few more best-selling compression sock options on Amazon, starting at $15. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Travel + Leisure
15-06-2025
- Health
- Travel + Leisure
Yes, You Should Wear Compression Socks on Flights—a Former Nurse Shares the Important Reason Why
While it's a completely normal occurrence to experience leg, ankle, and foot swelling on a flight, it can be pretty uncomfortable. Rather than endure the physical distress, you can invest in a pair of flight attendant-approved compression socks. Karen Young, a nurse-turned-flight attendant with nearly 50 years of experience in the latter role, shared with Travel + Leisure why compression socks should always be a part of your airport outfits. Read on to learn more about the benefits of compression socks, and shop her top picks from Amazon's fashion store, where these important travel essentials start at $20. Before becoming a flight attendant, Young was a nurse who would recommend compression socks for patients with circulatory and cardiac issues as they increase blood flow to the heart, which in turn, supports a healthy circulatory system. Now, working as a flight attendant, she says compression socks are 'wonderful' for travelers who want to ease swelling and avoid getting enlarged veins (a.k.a varicose veins); both are common during a flight because the change in air pressure, combined with dehydration and sitting down for long periods of time, leads to blood pooling in your leg veins, according to the Mayo Clinic. Fluids then leave your blood and go into the soft tissue, causing your legs and other parts of your body to swell. Compression socks use pressure on your legs to encourage blood flow, which can reduce swelling in the legs and feet, and in more severe cases, prevent blood clotting. When Young was a nurse, she and her colleagues regularly recommended Jobst compression socks, which range from $26 to $74, but Amazon has comparable picks for less than $20. Keep scrolling to shop the best compression socks ahead of your next flight. These compression socks from CharmKing use controlled pressure to help stimulate blood flow so it doesn't pool into your lower extremities from inactivity on the plane. The stretchy material makes them easy to pull over your legs, and the knee-high length will help provide relief throughout your leg. Young added that it's common to see flight attendants wearing compression socks on flights, and the reviews for this style prove it. In their Amazon review, one flight attendant said these prevent their calves from aching after a long day in the air on their feet. This three-pack of compression socks includes a mix of neutral colors you can pair with any of your airport outfits and are 'very comfortable,' according to a flight attendant. They also said that they reduced their aches and pains. Another one wrote that their legs were 'noticeably less swollen and felt less sore at the end of the day.' These compression socks have earned more than 60,000 five-star ratings, including one from a flight attendant who said that since wearing them, their feet feel better and 'recover faster.' They also have a reinforced heel for extra comfort and to help prevent uncomfortable rubbing in your shoes. Dr. Scholl's compression socks are American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA)-approved for promoting good foot health. They're made with mild compression to help encourage blood circulation and have the brand's comfortable Stay-Up Top cuff to prevent the socks from rolling down. You can wear these Aoliks compression socks on the plane and your hikes; they're that versatile. The pressure provided on your legs helps with swelling and achy feet per the brand, which is especially helpful on long days of trekking up trails. One reviewer wears them on every flight, and said their legs no longer throb and they don't have restless leg syndrome. If your feet are prone to sweating, you'll want to throw on these compression socks made from a breathable and comfortable material. One shopper, who's on their feet for up to 15 hours a day working across as many as four flights, said these socks make it so their toes 'don't feel like they're going to pop off like little sausages.' They continued, 'And I can see my ankles. These are miracle socks.' Featuring a mix of nylon and spandex materials, these compression socks have a soft, stretchy feel that'll help keep your feet comfy and less swollen. The bottom comes with a non-slip design for extra stability, and the built-in heel cushion will add a layer of protection from blisters caused by shoes. One flight attendant called these their 'must-haves' for air travel, saying they noticed an immediate difference from the first wear, including their legs not being sore and feet not swollen. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
CNN
03-06-2025
- Health
- CNN
Some of our favorite items from Ostrichpillow are up to 25% off ahead of your next vacay
If you haven't heard, it's Summer Travel Week here at CNN Underscored. Our team is ramping up their packing lists, scoping out the best gear for long-haul flights and the like. But scoring some of our editors' favorite travel accessories doesn't mean you have to pay full price. The latest travel deals on our radar are from the editor-approved brand Ostrichpillow, with its biggest sale of the season taking up to 25% off pillows, eye masks and more. Ostrichpillow Original Napping Pillow Last spring, our associate editor, Jillian Tracy, got her hands on the Napping Pillow and was a fan of the distraction-free cocoon. It might look a little ridiculous at first, but we found that it's great for serious nappers and those who prioritize their sleep, especially at this rare low price. Read our review Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow The traditionalists out there are probably more interested in wearing one of our picks for the best travel pillow on their next flight. It's typically more of a splurge, but with this sale, you can save with a rare discount. Our senior deals editor Rikka Altland loves its memory foam and 360-degree support that helps keep long flights our review Ostrichpillow Bamboo Compression Socks After a health scare in 2023, compression socks became a part of my everyday routine. Even if you aren't told you need to wear them, they're great for promoting blood flow and preventing clots, especially when sitting for long periods. Outside of travel, they can be used when working from home or exercising. Ostrichpillow Light Versatile Pillow For something that can be used as a sleep mask-pillow hybrid, consider this lightweight circular model that can be used during your commute, lounging at home or even reading on a flight. It's significantly cheaper than its other pillows and is a great option for those on a budget. Ostrichpillow Eye Mask Ostrichpillow's eye mask offers complete darkness and a snug fit. You'll have no problem falling asleep with its soft eye cups and ergonomic design. After testing, it's better suited for all sleepers aside from those who prefer snoozing face-down. Read our review Ostrichpillow Mini Handy Pillow This is the slimmest build in Ostrichpillow's entire line. You can store it in the front pocket of your carry-on or slide it into your bag for convenience. The compact, yet casual design differs from the rest, and it's accessible for those just getting into the portable pillow space. During Sleep Week in early March, we had an exclusive deal with Ostrichpillow that offered 15% off its popular eye mask and Go Neck Pillow. This sale matches the previous discount on the neck pillow, while marking the eye mask down even further. The rest of the site is discounted by up to 25%, which includes rarely on-sale items like its Original Napping Pillow. With the school year winding down and summer travel picking up, snagging travel essentials for yourself and the family is a must, particularly with some of our favorite items on sale. Our deals team has over a decade of combined commerce journalism experience. Rikka Altland, Jacqueline Saguin and Elena Matarazzo source the deals for the day to curate one-offs and retailer-specific roundups of the best sales to shop. Searching everything from coveted tech sales to Lululemon finds of the week, the team works across a wide variety of categories to ensure they're finding the best buys for Underscored readers.
Health Line
16-05-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Should You Wear Compression Socks to Bed?
In most cases, a doctor will recommend removing compression socks before going to bed. But they may advise wearing them overnight if you have venous ulcers or are recovering from venous surgery. Compression socks are a type of compression therapy that works by applying gradual pressure to the legs, which can help improve blood flow and circulation. They're often used to help manage conditions like varicose veins, lymphedema, and deep vein thrombosis. Healthcare professionals usually recommend wearing compression socks during the day and removing them at night. Sometimes, they may also suggest wearing them overnight for a short period. However, it's important to note that very limited research has examined the effects of wearing compression socks at night. A healthcare professional can help you determine whether nighttime use is appropriate for you. Keep reading to learn more about the possible benefits and risks of wearing compression socks at night. Why are compression socks recommended for the daytime? Your body positioning during the day and night may affect how blood flows throughout your body. During the day, you're more likely to be in a vertical or upright position, such as standing or sitting, so gravity causes blood to move down toward your legs. If you have an underlying condition like varicose veins, your blood may not be able to circulate back up to your heart normally. This can cause blood to pool in your legs, causing swelling, pain, heaviness, and possible complications. Compression socks offer different levels of pressure throughout the leg, with the strongest at the ankle. This continuous, gradual pressure helps your blood flow back up to your heart. However, at night during sleep, you're most likely to be in a horizontal position. In this position, gravity has less of an impact, and the return blood flow back to the heart is usually stronger. As such, you may not need the extra support from compression socks to manage your blood circulation, even if you have a health condition like varicose veins. Are there benefits to wearing compression socks at night? Very limited research has examined the effects of wearing compression socks at night, but they may be beneficial for a short period in some instances. A 2023 review found that nighttime use was mainly used for a short period for people who had venous ulcers or after some invasive procedures, including: radiofrequency ablation varicose veins stripping phlebectomy People most often wore compression socks during the day and at night. The duration of nighttime use ranged from 1 week to 13 weeks, but the most common timeframe was 1 week. After this, daytime use only was recommended. Other research suggests that an ulcer stocking system may help manage venous ulcers. These special compression stockings are made up of two stockings, or layers: Understocking: This is the inside layer. It applies mild pressure, holds the bandage in place, and helps the outer layer slide over. The understocking can be left on overnight. Overstocking: This is the outside layer. It applies additional pressure and should be removed at night. Not all research recommends their use Despite these findings, not all research supports the possible benefits of wearing compression socks at night. A small 2022 study in 20 people compared the effects of wearing compression socks during the day or at night to manage edema, which is swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet related to fluid retention. At the end of the study, the researchers concluded that wearing compression socks at night had very few benefits. Although wearing them helped relieve swelling slightly, the swelling came back within 10 minutes of being awake. A 2024 study in 60 people who underwent endovenous ablation compared the effects of wearing compression socks for 7 days straight or only at night for 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, the researchers found no significant difference between the two groups. A healthcare professional can help you decide whether wearing compression stockings at night is recommended. Can daytime compression socks help manage nighttime symptoms? In most cases, compression socks are recommended to be worn during the day. This may help manage conditions in which symptoms can occur at night, possibly disturbing your sleep. These conditions may include: restless leg syndrome, especially during pregnancy obstructive sleep apnea asthma venous insufficiency What are the risks of wearing compression socks at night? In general, compression socks that fit properly are a very safe, noninvasive treatment method for managing lymphatic and venous conditions. Limited research has examined the possible side effects of wearing them at night, but possible side effects and complications have been identified for their general use. The most common side effects are skin problems, such as: irritation dryness itchiness pain discomfort discoloration In rare cases, compression socks may lead to some complications, including: allergic reaction to the compression sock material edema in the front of your foot and toes infections tissue damage or necrosis (skin cell death) nerve damage arterial impairment blood clots heart failure It's very important to ensure that your compression socks fit properly and that they're not too tight. A healthcare professional can help you choose and correctly size them. What can you do instead of wearing compression socks? If you wear compression socks during the day as prescribed by a doctor, you should be fine to take them off before bed. If you experience any discomfort, you may wish to consider: applying a fragrance-free moisturizer to help manage any skin symptoms elevating your legs above heart level to promote blood flow taking a short walk to promote blood circulation avoiding crossing your legs or ankles, as this may reduce blood circulation A healthcare professional can recommend other alternatives for you. Frequently asked questions How many hours a day should you wear compression stockings? Healthcare professionals recommend wearing compression stockings during the hours of waking up and going to bed. However, the exact time may vary depending on the underlying condition you have. Healthcare professionals recommend wearing compression stockings during the hours of waking up and going to bed. However, the exact time may vary depending on the underlying condition you have. Where does the fluid go when wearing compression stockings? Compression stockings help fluid and blood in your legs move back up to your heart. Compression stockings help fluid and blood in your legs move back up to your heart. Should you elevate your legs when wearing compression socks? Elevating your legs when wearing compression socks can further help improve blood flow and relieve symptoms like pain, swelling, and heaviness. Elevating your legs when wearing compression socks can further help improve blood flow and relieve symptoms like pain, swelling, and heaviness. How long does it take for compression socks to reduce swelling? They start to help as soon as the socks are put on. The timing for the full effects will depend on how much fluid is already in the legs. They start to help as soon as the socks are put on. The timing for the full effects will depend on how much fluid is already in the legs. The bottom line Compression socks are a type of noninvasive therapy that can help promote blood flow and manage lower limb swelling and pain. Most people only have to wear them during the day. But a doctor may recommend nighttime compression socks if you have venous ulcers or are recovering from an invasive treatment like radiofrequency ablation.
