Compression Socks for Neuropathy: Do They Really Help?

compression socks for neuropathy

Our nervous system is a highly complex network that helps us perceive the world around us. When working properly, our nerves inform our sense of touch, regulate our body’s processes, and control our motor functions. When there’s an issue with these nerves, however, it can make daily life a painful and unpleasant challenge.

Also known as neuropathy, many people first experience nerve issues in their hands and feet. From tingling to pain, neuropathy can be both frustrating and chronic. If you’re dealing with neuropathy, any extra support and relief can have a major impact on your moment-to-moment enjoyment of life!

Fortunately, using compression socks for neuropathy can relieve symptoms and improve your overall health and wellness. Here’s everything you need to know to find the perfect pair. 

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy occurs when there is damage to the nervous system, with peripheral neuropathy specifically referring to any condition that affects the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Often impacting the hands and feet, peripheral neuropathy can lead to tingling, numbness, pain, or weakness.

Peripheral neuropathy can be a symptom of many different health conditions, so it’s important to diagnose, manage, and treat the cause as early as possible to prevent further nerve problems.

Nerves are capable of regrowing themselves under many circumstances, but depending on the degree and cause of the damage neuropathy may be reversible. Fortunately, no matter the cause, you can always take steps to limit further damage. 

Causes of Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy can be a symptom of a range of different health issues. It’s typically caused by disease, injury, or pharmaceutical complications, and can stem from any of the following conditions

  • Diabetes, also known as diabetic neuropathy
  • Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
  • Autoimmune disorders, such as Guillain-Barre syndrome, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Medications and toxins like chemotherapy
  • Infections and viruses, such as HIV, Lyme disease, or shingles
  • Injury or trauma, including after surgery

Symptoms of Peripheral Neuropathy

Because the nervous system governs all aspects of our physical experience, peripheral neuropathy can cause a wide range of abnormal sensations in your body, including:

  • Reduced sensation or numbness
  • Swelling in the legs and feet
  • Pain, often spontaneously
  • Tingling or pins and needles
  • Problems with balance or clumsiness 

However, sometimes there’s no known cause at all, which is known as idiopathic neuropathy.

No matter the cause behind nerve damage, symptoms such as pain or numbness can get in the way of comfortable daily functioning. Thankfully, compression socks for neuropathy have become a popular management tool for discomfort in the feet and legs.

How Do Compression Socks Work

Compression socks or stockings are long, tight socks that provide constant pressure to the lower legs and feet. Known to provide graduated compression, they are usually the most firm at the feet and ankles and gradually become less compressive up toward the knee.

Compression socks are beneficial for people engaged in any activity that stresses their feet and legs and causes discomfort and swelling. Compression sock converts can be found in athletics, maternity wards, airplanes, and any environment where people spend long periods of time standing. They are also excellent for people who struggle with mobility and circulation issues that often result in peripheral neuropathy. 

How Do Compression Socks Help Neuropathy?

No matter the cause of your nerve issues, compression socks can help manage the uncomfortable symptoms. Some of the benefits of compression socks for neuropathy:

Reduce Swelling in the Legs and Feet

Peripheral neuropathy can cause swelling (edema) in the lower legs which can be very uncomfortable and hinder proper movement. However, the pressure applied by compression socks helps boost circulation and prevent fluids from pooling in the lower legs to keep swelling to a minimum.

Boost Circulation

Peripheral neuropathy can impact proper circulation, but thankfully, compression socks can encourage healthy blood flow to the legs and feet. By giving your lower legs a squeeze in the right places, they work with your body’s natural circulatory processes to pump blood back to your heart. This can help manage symptoms and keep you comfortable on your feet no matter what the day brings.

Better Balance

Peripheral neuropathy can cause poor stability and muscle weakness which comes with a higher risk of falls. Compression socks can help to support your posture, prevent numbness, and relieve pressure on the joints, leading to better overall balance.

Improved Leg and Foot Health

Because peripheral neuropathy can lead to numbness, you may not notice when you have a cut or scratch on your legs and feet. Combined with the slow healing that comes with poor circulation, those with neuropathy are at a higher risk for ulcers and sores. Compression socks provide both physical protection to the legs and feet and a boost in circulation to prevent infection.

Compression Socks for Nerve Damage

If you are dealing with peripheral neuropathy, compression socks can help. Crazy Compression makes graduated compression socks that are designed for everyday wear, and the best part is they also look great! Here are some of our faves that will make sure the only tingling you’re experiencing is the good vibes of the people around you:

360 Rainbow Paint

Add some color to your wardrobe with our 360 Rainbow Paint compression socks. For neuropathy, this fun pair will help to boost circulation and reduce swelling in your legs and feet, keeping you comfortable all day long.

360 Tie-Dye Black

Embrace the tie-dye trend while supporting your leg health with our 360 Tie-Dye Black compression socks. Wear them under any outfit to enjoy the benefits of better balance, added protection, and improved sensation while entering the room with style. 

360 Mermaid Tail Extra-Wide Calf

And if you're worried that compression socks may not fit, you’ll be pleased to know that we have a full range of wide-calf compression socks. These 360 Mermaid Tail socks provide all the benefits of compression for neuropathy in a wider size that is accessible to anybody.

Crazy Compression Socks for Neuropathy

If you’re dealing with the tingling, numbness, or pain of peripheral neuropathy, Crazy Compression is here to help. All our socks are constructed with high-quality materials and design features like a seamless toe to make sure your feet are as comfortable and protected as they can possibly be. 

Compression socks for neuropathy are a tool to support your health and comfort, so add them to your morning routine and enjoy the benefits of compression socks day after day. Start exploring our collection today!

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