There are benefits to using compression socks or stockings for aging athletes.
Do you suffer from poor circulation, or swelling of the legs? If so, compression therapy may be for you. Forgive me for sounding like a used car salesman for a moment, but as an athlete, compression therapy can be very beneficial for your legs and ankles both in terms of recovery, and as you age.
Compression socks and stockings work by applying gentle pressure to your legs to promote blood flow to your heart. This reduces the diameter of major veins by increasing the velocity of the blood flow. They can also reduce pain and swelling, support veins, and help reduce circulation related issues like orthostatic hypotension, deep vein thrombosis, and pain caused by varicose veins.
The three kinds of compression socks are graduated compression stockings, which require a professional fitting because they are medical strength, anti-embolism stockings which are designed for people who aren’t mobile, as they reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis, and nonmedical support hosiery, which doesn’t require a prescription and can help with aching legs and swelling.
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As we age, our bodies are bound to change. You may not be able to do all the athletic things you could do when you were younger, but by using certain aids like compression socks responsibly, you can extend the life of your mobility and help promote your own vein health and circulation.