Compression socks are tight fitting stockings that are usually knee high or thigh high. Special care must be taken to ensure the foot length and total length is correct. Compression socks have many benefits. The pressure that they put on a patient's legs increases circulation, aids in the prevention of ailments such as deep vein thrombosis, and are also used by runners to promote blood flow and reduce fatigue.

There are many common ailments that compression socks help relieve. Deep vein thrombosis, a condition where blood clots form deep in the legs, is a common one. Other ailments include: circulation problems, joint and muscle pain, varicose veins, arthritis, and leg ulcers. Patients who have just undergone knee surgery may also be prescribed these stockings, because they reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with surgery.

People who sit or stand for long periods of time can also benefit. This is helpful to the thousands of Americans who sit at their computers all day. Using compression socks on legs and feet will help prevent numbness, swelling and pain. They can also keep blood from pooling in legs, because the compression massages muscles gently. They also help relieve fatigue in the leg muscles of patients who wear them regularly.

Long distance runners are another group that can benefit from the use of compression socks. Knee high stockings keep blood from pooling in their legs during a long run. They also increase circulation and support fatigued muscles, to reduce soreness after a workout. Many runners use them, because they help get rid of lactate build up in a runner's legs and feet. Sporty styles are available, so style does not have to be sacrificed to gain the benefits of long term use.

To gain maximum benefits, a patient should wear compression socks according to their doctor's orders. They should be tight fitting, but not so tight as to cut off circulation. Care should be taken to ensure the patient's heel fits snugly into the heel of the stocking. It is rare that compression socks fit too tightly, but a patient should contact their doctor if their legs or feet feel numb, or start to turn blue. It is a good idea to wash these socks before wearing them, so that the fibers are flexible, and the stockings are more comfortable to wear. Patients should not discontinue use without speaking to their doctor first.