Why are good graduated compression socks so important for nurses and healthcare professionals?

Q&A with Dr. Richard Alvarez, Orthopedic Surgeon based in Chattanooga, TN

It’s hard to believe compression socks were once feared by nurses and healthcare professionals as a looming prescription from their physician when years of prolonged sitting or standing has taken a toll on their legs. Flash forward to the present, and the benefits of compression socks for nurses have embellished this wellness item into a trending uniform accessory across the healthcare industry. Fresh, modern designs and attention to technical features like arch support and seamless toe closures have made a full day of wearing compression a pleasure for nurses, rather than a nagging task.

While nurses carry the critical task of preserving the health and wellbeing of others, they often forget to prioritize their own. As nurses week comes to a close and spring graduation ceremonies send off young, eager physicians and nurses to enter the work force, we sat down with Dr. Richard Alvarez, a highly regarded Orthopedic Surgeon in Chattanooga, TN, to tackle the topic of why nurses can benefit from compression socks.

Nurses and healthcare professionals are on their feet for extended periods of time, often for 12-hour shifts. What kind of impact does this have on their feet and legs?

When one awakens in the morning, his or her feet are the smallest they will be all day. As soon as they get on their feet, swelling naturally occurs as it is a long way for blood to flow through the body and back up to the heart. As one gets older, this becomes more prevalent. In some instances, shoes feel tighter, legs feel heavy or tired, and feet can feel achy.  If varicose veins are present, symptoms may be more apparent. They will likely worsen with prolonged standing through the years and, unfortunately, as one gets older. There are a lot of new nurses and healthcare professionals entering the work force this summer.

Why is it important to start wearing compression socks at the beginning of their career?

As mentioned above, prolonged periods of standing can cause swelling, varicose veins, fatigue and discomfort.  All of this can lead to discomfort and decreased levels of mental alertness. To prevent this, especially later development of varicose veins, start early with compression socks.

How do compression socks work to reduce fatigue and minimize swelling?

Compression socks are made of elastic fibers that are strongest at the feet and ankles, and gradually upward toward the knee.  Swelling occurs via blood (in vessels) and/or lymphatic fluid (fluid between cells). Compression socks counteract the effect of lymphatic fluid blood and blood pooling in the lower extremities. The compression socks work in conjunction with foot and leg muscles to push and squeeze lymphatic fluid up the lymphatic system and directs blood up the veins back to the heart and lungs.

There are varying levels of compression socks, ranging from mild to extra firm. At Sockwell, we focus on moderate (15-20mmHg) and firm (20-30mm Hg). How do you recommend nurses find what compression level is right for them?

The vast majority of young nurses will need light-to-moderate compression (15-20 mmHg).  This level of compression is beneficial for nurses who stand all day, travel on long-haul flights, or generally experience mild swelling.

Those with moderate swelling or varicose veins may want to choose a firmer compression (20-30 mm Hg). The next step up, 30-40 mmHg is typically reserved for more severe cases of varicose veins, post stripping and moderate swelling, due to venous stasis or lymphedema.

What else can nurses do to take care of their feet and legs?

Aside from compression socks, it’s important to support your feet and legs with appropriate shoes. Simply wearing compression socks and the right shoes can help solve a lot the discomfort that comes from foot and leg aches.  Get fitted at your local shoe store to find a quality, appropriate pair best suited for you.