How to Put on Compression Socks [Infographic]

Do your legs ache after a long day at work? Are you an athlete who wants to maximize your recovery between workouts? Have you been advised by your physician to wear specialized compression socks because it'll help manage a chronic health condition?

No matter what your story is, easy to put on compression socks could be a part of the solution. Graduated compression socks are super beneficial to your health—unfortunately, they're also super tight and can be tricky to get on.t on.

If your doctor prescribed you a pair, or if you're simply interested in how they could help you, it's handy to know the easiest way to put on compression socks. This way, you won’t struggle and need help putting on socks every day. Keep reading to learn how to don your socks like a pro!

WHY COMPRESSION SOCKS? THE BENEFITS OF COMPRESSION SOCKS

Pro compression socks are specialized socks made to be stretchy and tight on the legs. The tightness helps the blood in your legs flow back to your heart, instead of allowing the blood to pool in the legs due to gravity.

Compression socks benefits help a wide range of people and for a wide range of reasons. For example:

• Thigh high or waist high compression socks can prevent you from feeling lightheaded when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension)

• Knee high compression socks can reduce swelling in the lower legs due to various health conditions (e.g., heart disease)

• Compression socks can prevent blood clots from forming, which is especially important after surgery or following any period of inactivity (such as a long plane ride)

• Compression stockings can also reduce the pain and size of varicose veins—a major issue for people who stand a lot during the day

• When put on correctly, compression socks can also prevent ulcers or wounds on the feet and lower legs that can be caused by poor circulation in the veins

Because compression socks boost circulation in your legs and ankles, putting on a pair of socks during and after a tough workout or weight training can help your hard-working muscles get the oxygen they need to work hard and recover well.

HOW TO PUT ON COMPRESSION SOCKS EASILY: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Knowing how to put on compression socks easily is important (and it's not like putting on a regular pair). It'll save you a lot of frustration AND it'll help you make sure you're wearing them correctly.

This step-by-step support guide shows you how to put on thigh high compression socks or knee-high compression socks in a snap:

1. Get into a comfortable position—perhaps on the floor leaning against a sturdy sofa, or sitting on a bed with your legs out in front of you.

2. Put your arm all the way into your support sock until your palm is in the heel. (For comic relief, a brief sock puppet routine is optional.)

3. Pinch the heel of the sock between your thumb and palm. This creates an anchor for you to easily place your foot inside the bottom of the sock after you've completed the next step.

4. Using your other hand, turn the top of the sock down until it's inside out.

5. Put your foot into the bottom of the sock, lining up the heel with your heel. Roll the sleeve back up your leg, gently pulling and smoothing out the fabric as you go so there are no wrinkles or pockets. Make sure your foot and leg is clean and dry before putting on your sock!

6. If you have any extra or loose fabric at the top of your sock, fold it down tidily.

SUMMARY

• Compression socks aren't just for Grandma and Grandpa. Modern compression socks help improve circulation in men and women of all ages.

• By design, compression socks are tight—which can make them tricky to put on.

• Knowing how to put on compression stockings easily can save you time and spare you frustration—and encourage you to wear your socks consistently so you'll get the maximum benefit.

Learn About Compression Socks

Dr. Motion provides stylish, effective, and easy to put on compression socks for women and men of all ages looking to manage a health condition, maximize athletic performance and recovery, increase comfort during travel or work, minimize leg swelling, and more. Visit our friendly retailers or our website to learn more about how to get yourself a pair of fun compression socks today!

Disclaimer: This article provides information solely for educational purposes, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, and other materials contained herein. This article is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.