Why People With Large Calves Should Wear Properly Sized Support Socks

Compression stockings are designed to treat and prevent many common problems in the feet and legs. The socks provide pressure along the length of the lower leg. The sock is tighter near the ankle and slightly looser near the top. This graduated pressure helps to force the blood upwards through the veins so that there is a reduced chance of pooling that could make swelling or pain worse. The stockings are worn by athletes to help reduce recovery times after an intense performance and by people who are suffering from conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) who have circulation problems. Individuals who have large calves need to find support socks that will fit properly for a number of reasons.

Correct Pressure

The benefits that come from wearing compression stockings rely on selecting a pair that provides the correct amount of tension against the skin. Wearing a sock that is too tight will actually constrict the veins and reduce circulation while a garment that is too loose will have no beneficial effect on circulation. People who have large calves should seek out garments that take into the account the size of the calf. This will mean that the sock is specifically calibrated to wrap around the circumference of the lower leg so that the correct amount of compression is applied.

Reduce Swelling

People who have large calves sometimes develop swelling and more acute inflammation because of the increased amount of tissue in the area. This type of swelling could occur after extensive physical activity or it could be because of problems with the lymph nodes. Compression stockings are important for people with large calves. The effect that the socks have on circulation will force fluids and blood in the leg back into the body, where they will be moved and processed normally by the internal organs. People who do not take these steps often experience other problems over time, when blood starts to collect in the lower leg.

Prevent Problems

People who have developed large calves through exercise do not have an increased risk of developing problems in the area. Individuals who are dealing with an enlarged calf because of a medical condition do need to be aware of some potential problems. There is sometimes an increased chance of developing a clot, acquiring an infection or contracting a number of other medical conditions that result from poor circulation. Wearing support socks for the entire day will help to reduce the risk of these problems. The increased circulation in the calf will draw away harmful substances that collect and will replenish oxygen to the muscle tissue. The veins are also less likely to form a clot when properly fitted compression stockings are worn.