6 Best Compression Socks for Seniors

Compression socks are safe for most people, but they squeeze the leg, and in some conditions that can do real harm. NHS compression hosiery guidelines list these as reasons not to wear compression stockings until a clinician has assessed the person:

• Known or suspected peripheral artery disease (poor blood supply to the legs: cold, pale feet, cramping pain on walking)
• Peripheral neuropathy or other loss of feeling in the legs or feet, because the person may not feel a sock that is too tight
• Fragile skin, dermatitis, skin grafts or ulcers on the legs
• Previous bypass surgery on the leg arteries
• Very unusually shaped or sized legs that a standard sock cannot fit

The same guidelines advise caution with heart failure until a full assessment has been done. Doctors and nurses check whether compression is safe with a simple test that compares blood pressure at the ankle and the arm (the ankle-brachial pressure index). If any of the above applies, ask for that check first.

Take the socks off straight away and get advice if there is numbness, pins and needles, pain, or the skin looks blue, purple or cold.

Two different things are often confused. Diabetic socks are loose, non-binding, cushioned socks designed to protect the feet; they apply no real compression. Compression socks squeeze the leg to help with swelling.

For people with diabetes, a 2012 pilot study in the Journal of Diabetes Science and Technology found that mild compression (18 to 25 mmHg) reduced leg swelling over four weeks without harming circulation, in adults whose leg circulation had been checked first. But neuropathy, which is common with diabetes, is one of the conditions where NHS guidance says compression stockings should not be used without an assessment, because the person may not feel a sock that is too tight. So for anyone with diabetes or neuropathy: get the circulation check first, start with mild compression, and check the feet and legs every evening.

Ankle swelling that goes down overnight and is worse after sitting or standing is common in later life, and compression often helps. But swelling is also a symptom of heart, kidney and liver problems and of blood clots, and some of those make compression unsafe. See a doctor before relying on socks if the swelling is new, is in one leg only, is painful, red or warm, or comes with breathlessness. Swelling in one calf with pain and warmth needs a doctor the same day.

Mostly not. Since 1 January 2024, under the Lymphedema Treatment Act, Medicare Part B covers doctor-prescribed gradient compression garments for treating lymphedema. Everyday compression socks for tired legs, travel or general swelling are not covered by that benefit, so check with Medicare or your plan before buying with that expectation.

• Put them on in the morning and, unless a doctor has said otherwise, take them off at bedtime
• Moisturise the legs at night after taking them off, not in the morning (cream makes them harder to get on)
• Wash after every wear, by hand or on a gentle cycle, and dry flat away from direct heat; no fabric conditioner
• Replace them about every six months, or sooner if they have lost their stretch