If you’re living with multiple sclerosis (MS), you may have heard that compression socks can help manage some MS symptoms. But how do compression socks work, and are there any side effects of wearing them?

Here are three ways compression socks may help relieve MS symptoms.

1. Improve Circulation

MS is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular and circulatory issues, including heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and blood clots. The exact cause isn’t clear, but research suggests that reduced activity and poor circulation may play a role.

Common MS symptoms include chronic pain, numbness and tingling, muscle weakness, and increased fatigue (extreme tiredness). These issues can make it more challenging to perform day-to-day activities, including exercising or staying active, which can worsen circulation and increase cardiovascular risks.

Compression socks (also called compression stockings or compression garments) work by applying gentle pressure to the legs, improving blood flow so that blood doesn’t pool in one place. This may help reduce symptoms linked to poor circulation, such as fatigue, cold or numb hands and feet, varicose veins, and high blood pressure.

2. Reduce Swelling

MS may cause edema (swelling) in your lower extremities, including your feet and ankles. This is often due to a buildup of lymphatic fluid, usually from reduced mobility. Depending on the severity, swollen ankles and feet can be uncomfortable and further limit movement.

Compression socks can help reduce edema and prevent future swelling in your lower leg area. The socks gently squeeze the legs, which increases pressure in the body’s tissues and reduces fluid buildup.

3. Lower Blood Clot Risk

Poor circulation in the body increases the risk of blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT). People with MS may be at greater risk if they have limited mobility.

By improving circulation, compression socks help prevent blood from pooling, reducing the chance of clots that could clog the bloodstream. This, in turn, lowers the chances of serious complications like heart attack, stroke, or other cardiovascular emergencies.

Tips for Buying and Wearing Compression Stockings

If your healthcare provider recommends compression socks, it’s important to choose a comfortable and effective pair. First, check with your health insurance provider — some plans will help cover the cost if you have a prescription. You may also be able to use funds from a medical savings plan to buy them over the counter.

Compression socks come in different pressure levels and lengths, including those that hit just below the knee and longer ones that reach the thigh. Your physician can advise you on what to buy and how long to wear them each day. The socks are usually most effective when you put them on first thing in the morning, before swelling sets in.

Compression stockings can be tricky to pull on, but there are some hacks for putting on compression socks that can make it easier. For example, you may find it helpful to first sprinkle baby powder on your legs or wear rubber gloves to get a better grip. You can also purchase a device called a stocking donner, which is a tool that can help compression socks slide on. Be sure to wash your stockings daily, and replace them every three to six months, as they lose elasticity over time.

MyMSTeam Members on Compression Socks

Several MyMSTeam members have shared that they wear compression stockings to help manage MS symptoms.

One member asked about stiffness and swelling in the arms and thighs. In response, another member said they used compression stockings “for my feet and legs … and it truly helps.” They also mentioned using compression gloves to manage similar issues in their hands.

Another member described wearing compression socks to stave off future clots: “I had a blood clot, and after that, I always wear my compression socks every day, and my legs feel much better.”

Compression socks aren’t a cure-all, and some MyMSTeam members have reported discomfort, such as having legs tingle after taking off compression socks. One member noted that despite wearing compression socks, they still had pain in their feet and legs. Another member reported that they “never give up trying” with compression socks.

Compression socks come in a variety of styles and sizes, so finding the best fit and level of compression may take some trial and error. As always, check with your healthcare provider to get medical advice before trying compression therapy or any other over-the-counter options for managing MS symptoms.

Find Your Team

On MyMSTeam, the social network for people with MS and their loved ones, more than 218,000 people with multiple sclerosis and their loved ones gather to support each other. Here, you can find answers to your questions and join a community of active members ready and willing to help you every step of the way.

Do you use compression stockings to reduce leg pain and swelling? If so, do you prefer the knee-high or thigh-high socks? Share your story in the comments below or by posting on MyMSTeam.