Can Compression Socks Really Help with POTS, Fibro, and Everything in Between?

 

Let’s be real: living with chronic illnesses like POTS, fibromyalgia, or anything else that decides to mess with your legs can feel like your body’s gone into “chaos mode.” Hi, I’m one of you—living with POTS, fibro, and more, so trust me when I say I get it. You’re just trying to live your life, and your legs are over here being high-maintenance divas.

Now, compression socks might not sound like the most exciting solution ever (I mean, socks, really?), but hear me out. These little beauties might just be the secret weapon you didn’t know you needed.

Why Do My Legs Hate Me?

POTS: Gravity’s Not Your Friend

If you’ve got POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), standing up can feel like your body’s auditioning for a fainting scene in a bad soap opera. Blood pools in your legs instead of heading back to your heart and brain, leaving you dizzy, exhausted, and maybe even a little sweaty (cute right).

Fibro: Swelling, Pain, and Why?

Oh, fibromyalgia—you overachiever of discomfort. Along with making your whole body ache, it can throw in a side of swelling (and more). Why? Because fibro likes to mess with your circulation, leaving you with legs that feel tight, heavy, and not at all interested in cooperating. To add to the convenience of Fibromyalgia, it seems to peak in the summer months when the weather is hot. Just in time for dress season eh?

Other Reasons Your Legs Might Be Mad

It’s not just POTS and fibro causing trouble. Swelling and circulation issues can come from arthritis, lymphedema, long work shifts on your feet, or even sitting down for hours binge-watching Netflix (no judgment). Your legs just don’t appreciate being ignored.

So, What’s the Deal with Compression Socks?

Here’s the science bit (don’t worry, I’ll keep it fun): compression socks give your legs a gentle hug, helping push blood (and fluid) back to your heart and reducing swelling. They’re like the personal trainers of your circulatory system—minus the shouting.

Compression socks come in different “strengths,” measured in mmHg (millimetres of mercury, which sounds fancy).

What Does mmHg Mean?

The term mmHg stands for "millimetres of mercury," a measurement of pressure. It tells you how much pressure the socks apply to your legs. The higher the number, the stronger the compression. Different levels of compression are designed for different uses and medical conditions.

Mild Compression (8-15 mmHg)

Who it’s for:

• People with mild swelling or tired legs (think: long flights or standing all day).
• Those wanting light support without a medical-grade feel.

Benefits:

• Improves circulation and reduces mild discomfort.
• A great "starter" level for anyone curious about compression socks.

Moderate Compression (15-20 mmHg)

Who it’s for:

• Everyday use for mild to moderate symptoms.
• People with conditions like POTS or fibromyalgia who need gentle support.
• Athletes for recovery and improved performance.
• Travellers or desk workers sitting for long periods.

Benefits:

• Boosts circulation and reduces mild swelling, varicose veins, and fatigue.
• Comfortable enough for all-day wear and suitable for people sensitive to pressure (like those with fibromyalgia and ASD / ADHD).

Firm Compression (20-30 mmHg)

Who it’s for:

• People with more pronounced medical issues, such as varicose veins, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or chronic swelling (edema).
• Pregnant individuals dealing with moderate swelling.
• Post-surgery patients to prevent blood clots.

Benefits:

• Provides stronger support to reduce swelling and prevent blood pooling in the legs.
• Often recommended by doctors for medical conditions requiring more intervention.

Extra-Firm Compression (30-40 mmHg and higher)

Who it’s for:

• Severe medical conditions like lymphedema or significant venous insufficiency.
• People recovering from major surgeries like vein stripping or DVT treatment.

Benefits:

• Provides the highest level of support to manage serious circulation issues.
• Should only be worn under a doctor’s supervision, as these can feel very tight and require proper fitting.

Why 15-20 mmHg is a Sweet Spot!

The 15-20 mmHg level (used in the socks we sell) is perfect for most people because it:

• Provides enough compression to improve circulation and reduce swelling.
• Is comfortable for everyday wear without being overly tight.
• Works for a wide range of conditions and situations (from POTS to long work shifts or flights).
• Is suitable for people with sensory sensitivities, avoiding that hyper-aware feeling.

Our socks are in the 15-20 mmHg range, which is just right for everyday wear—supportive but not suffocating. They’re perfect for managing symptoms without feeling like your legs are being squeezed by a boa constrictor.

 

Who Can Benefit from Compression Socks?

Compression socks aren’t just for those of us with chronic illnesses. Here’s a quick list of who might want to give them a go:

• People with POTS, fibromyalgia, arthritis, or lymphedema
• Anyone dealing with swelling or circulation issues
• Pregnant folks with achy, swollen legs
• Athletes who want to recover faster after workouts (fancy!)
• Nurses, retail workers, and anyone who’s on their feet all day
• Desk workers or travellers sitting for hours (hello, long flights)

Basically, if you’ve got legs, compression socks might just be your new best friend.

So, Why Don’t People Wear Them?

Okay, let’s address the elephant in the room: traditional compression socks are ugly. The pharmacy ones are beige, boring, and about as exciting as your nan’s knitting patterns( sorry nan, I do love knitting!).

But here’s the thing: socks don’t have to be dull. At Chronically Sick Mama, we’re on a mission to make compression socks that are fun, stylish, and totally un-embarrassing. We’ve got colourful patterns, quirky designs, and even a Christmas range (because yes, your legs deserve festive cheer too).

Breaking the Stigma, One Sock at a Time

Disability aids shouldn’t make you feel worse—they should make you feel fabulous. After all, the whole point of a disability aid is to help us live life in a better way yes? That’s why we’re committed to creating products that are both functional and fun. Life with chronic illness is hard enough without having to deal with boring, clinical-looking aids.

So, whether you’re managing POTS, fibro, or just need a little extra leg love after a long day, our compression socks have got your back (or, well, your legs). They’re here to support you, literally, while looking amazing.

There you have it—compression socks: the unsung heroes of happy legs. Go ahead and give them a try; your legs will thank you!

Check out our fun range of compression socks and feel happy!