Why Should Truck Drivers Wear Compression Socks?

Truck drivers are known for sitting for extended periods of time while they drive their cargo through a series of states and provinces before reaching their delivery destinations. Because truck drivers spend long hours on the road and press down on the gas pedal the entire time, they should wear compression socks. Daily, truckers can drive up to 12 hours at a time. By wearing compression socks, they can prevent circulation issues because of the lack of movement every day. There are many types of compression socks and different ways to choose the right kind depending on the truck. In this article, we’ll touch base on preferences, sizing, types of compression socks, and ailments caused by not moving around.

Types of Preferences for Compression Socks

Compression socks are available in an array of materials including nylon, wool, cotton, or nylon blend, which is different from normal nylon. There isn’t one set compression level, which is why there are various levels of compression available, depending on the circulation needed. The gradual levels are designed to cater to specific lower leg circulation levels depending on the size of the leg, the amount of time spent sitting, as well as how severe the circulation issues are.

Compression Sock Sizing

The main difference between high-compression and low-compression socks is how they’re measured for their purpose. Socks with low-compression abilities require few measurements to determine the correct size: the person’s shoe size, weight or height. If someone chooses a compression sock with a higher level of compression, he should expect to have his legs measured in three places: the ankle, the calf, and the height of the knee from the floor. Any person buying compression socks with a level over 15 mmHg should seek professional advice from their primary physician before purchasing, because these very high-compression socks may do more harm than good.

Compression Socks Styles

If any leg area is hurting and needs circulation, the compression sock should completely cover this area. This can be done through three different lengths of compression socks. Those who are looking to compress their ankles or calves should look into specific knee-high compression socks that end just where the knee starts. These knee-highs prevent the calves from being sore, but still allow the stocking to stay in place. Thigh-high compression socks improve circulation over a larger portion of the body, from the thigh to the ankle. Last but not least, support pantyhose for women provide total circulation that knee-highs cannot provide.

Compression Socks as a Treatment for Leg Pain

Truck drivers are faced with different types of leg ailments including peripheral vascular disease, and even a vein disorder called deep vein thrombosis. Both are present when there is poor leg circulation because of the lack of blood reaching the heart. This ailment begins at the feet and can be found early on when drivers begin to experience cramping in their lower legs. In order to reduce symptoms and help circulation, proper compression wear is needed along with a visit to a primary physician. If the ailment is bad, truck driving may have to be put to the side because, if left untreated, it can lead to blood clotting disorders from sitting for long periods of time.

While compression socks won’t completely cure leg pain, they can aid in preventing leg issues from becoming worse. Taking the time to pull over and stretch can also aid in preventing circulation conditions.