How to Choose the Best OTC Compression Socks for Travel

How to Choose the Best OTC Compression Socks for Travel

Did you know that wearing compression socks while traveling is important for many reasons? For example, they can decrease swelling after long flights or car rides, and they also help reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). However, there are a number of different types on the market today that may not be suitable for your trip, so it's best to know what to look for before choosing one. The following guide outlines the best OTC Compression Socks for travel, along with other helpful tips and information.

What are Compression Socks?

Compression socks are a type of medical clothing that utilizes compression technology to increase blood flow, ultimately improving circulation. Compression socks have been around for many years and have historically been worn by those who suffer from varicose veins or other lower leg problems. Similarly, when it comes to pressure (mmHg), they come in over-the-counter (OTC) with three different medical versions.

How Are They Designed?

Compression socks are made of elastic fabric to compress the surface of the veins, arteries and muscles of your limbs. Graduated compression socks are tightest at the ankles and gradually become less tight on the knees or thigh. The OTC graduated compression socks at TRUEENERGY® are made using NASA-inspired technology, and the high-tech yarn in them is infused with infrared energy.

How Do They Help?

Compression socks are worn by athletes to improve performance and recovery time, as well as help prevent injuries like twisted ankles or pulled muscles. However, they are also effective at minimizing deep vein thrombosis risk after long car rides or flights since they increase blood flow to the lower leg, thereby reducing pain and swelling.

What Are the Benefits of Wearing Compression Socks While Traveling?

Compression socks are specially designed for travel because they offer all the benefits of wearing socks while allowing you to be discreet about it. What follows are some specific health benefits of wearing compression socks while traveling:

  • Minimize DVT Risk: Deep vein thrombosis is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins of your body. This can be prevented by increasing blood flow to the lower legs, which compression socks do very effectively. The tighter compression socks are at the ankle, the more effective they will be. You should choose graduated compression socks that get gradually looser as you get closer to the knee or thigh. This promotes blood flow and allows you to get up out of your seat during long car rides, flights, etc., while still benefiting from compression socks.
  • Reduce Swelling & Pain: One of the most common reasons people choose to wear compression socks is due to swelling and pain in their lower legs, feet and ankles. Many things, including blood clots, can cause this. Compression socks help reduce these problems because they increase circulation, which reduces the pooling of blood that causes excess fluid build-up (edema) and pain.
  • Helps with Pain from Varicose Veins: Varicose veins are a common ailment that can cause pain in the legs, swelling of the lower leg and discoloration of the skin due to enlarged blood vessels. The best compression socks help reduce fluid build-up in your lower legs, decreasing pressure and pain from varicose veins.

How to Choose Compression Socks for Travel

Here is how to choose the best OTC compression travel socks:

  • Choose Socks with Warming Technology: This is a very important consideration because you want to choose graduated compression socks that have some sort of warming technology, so your feet stay warm on long car rides or flights! Graduated OTC compression socks infused with infrared energy are especially effective at keeping blood flowing even when sitting for long periods of time.
  • Get the right length: For travel, most people choose knee-high compression socks. However, you may also want to consider a shorter version if your trip includes long periods of being on your feet or traveling in hot weather conditions. You can still get the benefits from foot pain relief and reducing swelling with thigh-high compression socks.
  • Choose suitable material: If you are traveling long distances, it's a good idea to choose compression socks made of soft, breathable material that wicks moisture. TRUEENERGY® socks are made of 67% Polyester, 18% Cotton, 11% Nylon, 4% Spandex, and the fabric helps you achieve the desired characteristics you want in compression sock material. They are also made with comfortable Infrared ceramic crystals that do not wash out and stay effective for the entire life of the product.
  • Don’t overspend: Compression socks range in price from $20 -$50, and TRUEENERGY® Infrared Technology Socks with mild graduated compression are regularly priced at $19.99, which is very reasonably priced for the innovative technology you get in the yarn.
  • Base selection on comfort: Over-the-counter compression socks are lightweight and comfortable, making them easy to pack in a suitcase before traveling.
  • Choose the correct pressure: Look for graduated compression socks with 8-15 mmHg if you want to avoid DVT while traveling and you don’t have circulation problems. If you do have a circulatory condition like DVT or varicose veins, you may need 20-30 mmHg (medical strength, class 1). In this case, you should discuss your compression sock pressure needs with your physician.

Do I Need Compression Socks For Long Flights?

Yes, or you can get a dangerous condition known as “economy class stroke syndrome.” With long-haul flights, there is an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis caused by a combination of three things: 1) Restriction of movement, 2) gravity and 3) a traveler’s sedentary activity during seven hours or longer. Compression socks may help you avoid this syndrome.

If you want to avoid DVT, look for compression socks with a pressure of around 8-15 mmHg. No matter which weight you choose, you shouldn't feel any pain or a very tight grip. The socks should only feel close-fitting and warm.

At 20-30 mmHg, compression socks are a little stronger than what most travelers need while flying, but they are good for those who have circulation problems or are at risk for DVT. Again, it's best to discuss the best footwear and socks to use on a long trip with your physician. 

Include TRUEENERGY® OTC Compression Socks in Your Travel Plans

A pair of OTC compression socks by TrueEnergy are great to wear on long car rides or flights because they have warming technology, are easy to slip on and off quickly in the airport and provide graduated pressure. They also look like normal socks, so you can easily wear them under your pants if desired.

If you'd like to find out more about OTC compression socks and how they can help you stay healthy on your next trip, we encourage you to visit our site today!