Compression socks

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I am a not-so-new nurse but I am new to 12 hour shifts where I am on my feet most of the shift. I wear comfortable running shoes with custom made (running) insoles. Although my feet don't actually hurt after a shift, my legs are exhausted. I plan on buying myself calf compression sleeves in the near future. Does anyone have any experience with these? As a runner, I've been told how good they are to improve circulation, but I'm wondering how they would be for over 12 hours. Thank you in advance for any and all responses.

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I have never used the compression sleeves but there isn't a shift that goes by that I don't wear compression socks. These are my favorites: Amazon.com: Sockwell Women's Elevation Compression Socks: Sports & Outdoors

They are knee highs and stay up all shift long and aren't nearly as hot as I thought they would be. Hope that helps.

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Specializes in ICU.
I have never used the compression sleeves but there isn't a shift that goes by that I don't wear compression socks. These are my favorites: Amazon.com: Sockwell Women's Elevation Compression Socks: Sports & Outdoors

They are knee highs and stay up all shift long and aren't nearly as hot as I thought they would be. Hope that helps.

I've also been looking into getting some. Thanks for the recommendation!! There are so many options- it's hard to know which ones are good ones!

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First thing I would say is do not wear running shoes. They are very light (meaning THIN). They are not for continuous walking especially for 12 hours. Walking shoes have more cushion but many of them are either all black or all white. Not sure what you like. But LL Bean has walking shoes that are comfortable and so does Zappos.com. As for compression socks, I love the ones I bought from TCS (Total Compression Solutions). They have regular compression socks in all kinds of styles and colors (EllipsisPro Knee Highs)! I personally bought their Ellipsis SportsEdge Knee High socks. They are awesome! They have more cushioning than the EllipsisPros and it makes a huge difference. They also have compression sleeves, ankle, and invisible socks (very low profile). The EllipsisPro is 20-30mmHg of compression and the Ellipsis SportsEdge has 30-40mmHg of compression. You need to use their size chart to make sure you are getting the correct size for your ankle and calf circumferences. They are pricey but you should check them out. I got 4 pairs at NTI for a deal so ask them if they'll hook you up!

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Compression socks will change your life. I alternate between Nikes and Danskos--but honestly the Danskos hurt my back. Regardless of the footwear, compression socks are worth their weight in gold.

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I've also been looking into getting some. Thanks for the recommendation!! There are so many options- it's hard to know which ones are good ones!

You're most welcome. If you're flexible on colors they usually have a good deal every now and again...got my last pair for just over $10. Much friendlier to the wallet than those $50/pair type!!

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My hubby swears by futuro brand compression knee highs. They are $20-30/pair. He gets them on sale and usually uses a coupon so they less expensive. He uses them everyday. His family has history of varicose veins.

I tried them a few times. Some slipped down past my calf so I constantly pulled them up. Wrong size maybe? Otherwise my feet got hot & sweatier than usual & my feet slipped around in my shoes too much (even with socks over them)! I guess they weren't meant for me! But I do suggest you try them out for yourself. Good Luck!

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Gyn, Pospartum & Psych.

I have several different brands with different levels of compression....which pair I wear depends on how many days I am working in a row and which day it is. My favorite really are Dr Scholls which I get at Walmart for $8 (sock aisle near the diabetic socks). I think I like them because they have slightly less compression but still are supportive.

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Specializes in Primary Care, OR.

Compression socks can be covered by your insurance if the compression you need is 20mmHg or more. But you have to find a provider in your area that will size you and prescribe them!

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Specializes in Psych, Addictions, SOL (Student of Life).

I have a number of compression garments that I wear under my scrubs. I really like the Tommie Copper brand but they can be expensive.

They really help with some of the pain from my Fibro -

Hppy

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Specializes in OR/PACU/med surg/LTC.

I find them very warm which makes it hard for me to wear them regularly, especially in the summer.

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Specializes in Telemetry.

I wear the calf sleeves on a daily basis (and so do a few other nurses on my unit), I like them better than the full socks I was wearing before. Mine don't slip at all, but like was mentioned before, it could be a size issue. They definitely make a difference in how my legs feel after a 12 hour shift (or 4 12 hour shifts in a row!) I use these Amazon.com : Zensah Compression Leg Sleeves, Tie Dye Titanium, Small/Medium : Medical Support Hose And Socks : Sports & Outdoors Love all the color choices!

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