By Alison McGill
If you’ve never considered compression socks (which I’m guessing the majority of you haven’t) let me share they’re a hidden wellness gem. I personally had zero knowledge of the benefits of compression socks until about a month ago when I started physiotherapy for an ankle fracture I sustained this winter. My physiotherapist recommended light compression socks to help me control ankle swelling, improve my circulation and as a must for future air travel.
I dove into research and connected with Toronto-based osteopath and entrepreneur Dr. Liza Egbogah on the subject. She shared that compression socks have always been thought to be something only for the elderly or for clinical use in hospitals, but the reality is everyone, at any age, can benefit from wearing them.
“Yes, compressions socks are essential in clinical care, but they are also performance-enhancing and recovery-supportive for anyone,” says Dr. Liza. “Everyone from teenagers standing at retail jobs to seniors managing circulation issues can benefit. They’re a smart, everyday wellness choice.”
Dr. Liza, who’s the creator of the beloved, fashion-forward dr LIZA Shoes orthopedic footwear brand, made it a mission to make compression wear cute and designed her own line of funky and colourful socks. After wearing pair of dr LIZA compression socks for a day, not only did my ankle not balloon up, but both of my legs energized and less fatigued at the end of the day.
Read on for more of Dr. Liza’s thoughts on the health wins of compression socks, what to look for when shopping for them and why you should never get on a plane without a pair.
Why can everyone benefit from compression socks?
“Compression socks are one of the simplest, most effective tools to support circulation and reduce swelling, especially in the lower limbs,” Dr. Liza explains. “Whether you are an athlete, on your feet all day, sitting for long hours, or recovering from an injury, they can be extremely beneficial. From a clinical perspective, they help prevent fluid pooling in the lower legs and ankles, support venous return, reducing the risk of varicose veins and blood clot, reduce muscle fatigue and soreness, especially after long periods of activity or travel. They also aid recovery from plantar fasciitis, Achilles issues or lower leg fatigue.”
Any myth-busting to share about compression socks?
“They are not just for older people or those with injuries,” Dr. Liza says. “Athletes, nurses, and frequent travelers swear by them for their many health benefits. It’s also thought they are uncomfortable and hard to wear. While there are some compression socks that are uncomfortable, most of today’s designs (including mine) use gentle compression that feels supportive, not restrictive. And modern fabrics make them breathable, soft, and easy to pull on. Lastly, some people think that they cut off circulation. The opposite is true—they improve circulation!”
Why should compression socks be in every travel carry-on?
“When you’re on long flights or road trips, you tend to have limited movement, and that means blood tends to pool in your lower legs and feet, especially in cramped seating,” Dr. Liza reports. “That can lead to swelling, discomfort, or in rare cases, deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Wearing compression socks keeps blood flowing efficiently, prevents that heavy, aching leg feeling, helps you feel fresher and lighter when you land and reduces risk of clots during long periods of inactivity. If you’ve ever landed from a long flight and your ankles looked like they belonged to someone else or it’s difficult to put back on your shoes, know that compression socks would’ve saved you.”
What do you need to be savvy about when shopping for compression socks?
“There are two types of compression socks,” Dr. Liza says. “Ones that are medically prescribed for medical use and non-medical socks like mine. If they are for medical use, your doctor will prescribe the exact type of socks you need. For not medical use, look for breathability and stretch; avoid socks that feel suffocating or make your skin sweat. You also want socks that you’ll feel comfortable wearing, so looks matter. The inspiration for my line of compression socks came from what I saw in my clinic. People wanted the benefits of compression but didn’t want to feel like they were wearing medical gear. My goal was to design a line that’s comfortable enough for all-day wear and fashion-forward with patterns and colours that feel joyful, not clinical. Offering compression socks that support your health and your style was key. As a frequent traveller myself, I also wanted stylish compression socks for myself. Bottom line: buy from a brand that understands both form and function—ideally one backed by medical expertise.”
All photos courtesy of dr LIZA Shoes
