Do Compression Socks For Runners Really Work

Remember those not quite so cool knee-high tube socks of the 70's? Well guess what, they are back but this time they are more than just a fashion statement!

You may not find them in the mainstream fashion world but if you look closely at many of the elite distance runners, you are looking at technology at work and they have a new name, Compression Socks.

Not technology in the sense of gadgets but more in the benefits of using certain materials for healthier, more comfortable fitness.

Compression socks for runners are over-the-calf-socks (formerly known as tube socks), which are designed to improve oxygen deliver to the muscles.

The benefits of this process is a faster recovery time for the muscles by speeding up lactic acid removal and stabilizing the lower leg for better performance.

Several well-known distance runners and triathletes have been using them since their introduction onto the market. So do compression socks for runners or other athletes really work?

Although some runners wear compression socks during their race others say they feel the benefits when worn after the race or event. Either way if they have been worn by such well known distance runners and triathletes as Lornah Kiplagat and Joe Friel, then they are definitely worth a try.

A unique feature of the socks is how their design that allows for gradual pressure applied from the ankles up to the knees. Although our bodies work to keep the blood flow equally pumped throughout our body, gravity can sometimes lead to blood collecting within the calves and feet. This is where circulation problems start which results in both fatigue and lower-leg cramping.

This is basically how this type of hosiery became known as compression socks. With the tough elastics used in the design they create tension or pressure around the lower legs, ankles and feet which in-turn compresses blood veins on the surface as well as arteries and muscles. This causes blood flow to be forced through smaller channels which results in better circulation of blood to the heart and less blood collecting around the calves and feet.

Most people associate these socks with the medical field especially since they were initially marketed to individuals who experience poor circulation. I know when I first heard the term "compression socks", I immediately thought of "diabetes socks or stockings." However, you will find now there are many individuals experiencing the benefits of compression socks on a daily basis.

People who are required to be on their feet for extended periods of time have discovered the benefits from wearing them. You will also find hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities using them in the management of people with edema, lymph edema, phlebitis, varicose or spider veins as well as deep vein thrombosis.

There are several theories about the physiological and bio-mechanical benefits experienced by athletes who usecompression socks for runners.

Runners who wear them during the race feel they benefit by the ability of blood circulating to the heart more efficiently creating better endurance and decreasing the possibility of cramping and muscle fatigue.

Although there have been conflicting studies presented, as to the benefits of actually wearing compression socks while running, they have been shown to be very beneficial by wearing them immediately after running or any other strenuous workout.

So it really comes down to personal preference if you feel the benefits of wearing compression socks for runners while running or exercising, by all means do so. If not, be sure to definitely wear them after a long run or strenuous workout.