I can easily walk thousands of steps any time I leave my apartment. After all, living in New York demands a lot of walking if you want to get anywhere efficiently. While comfy sneakers or supportive insoles can make walking everywhere more tolerable, my feet still can’t totally escape the extreme soreness sure to come after a long day. Naturally, I turn to various pain relief treatments to soothe my tired feet, from pain relief creams to massage devices. A podiatrist recently recommended I try compression socks for lasting relief. That’s how I found the $10 Blitzu Compression Socks, which have more than 21,000 perfect ratings at Amazon.
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Dr. Anne Sharkey, DPM, podiatrist and founder of Solely Podiatry, recommends compression socks for anyone in need of relief after spending long periods of time on their feet. The snug, elastic-like fabric gently applies a graduated pressure, which the expert says is “higher towards the toes region and lower as it moves up the foot and ankle.” This improves blood flow and reduces fluid buildup, which results in less swelling. Dr. Sharkey adds that compression through the arch further reduces pain and discomfort related to plantar fasciitis. The product is also designed with additional support around the ankles and heels to further lessen strain and keep you stable.
And the benefits don’t just end there — the breathable and moisture-wicking fabric ensures a comfortable feel throughout the day. Plus, the thickly layered cuff at the top prevents the socks from slipping or rolling. Dr. Sharkey is also a fan of the compression socks’ open-toe design thanks to its less restrictive feel. That’s why the expert suggests this pair for those with discomfort from ingrown toe nails or who want to avoid the feel of crowded toes.
The Blitzu Compression Socks are particularly beneficial, though, for those with occupations where they stand on hard surfaces, like nurses and service industry workers, who are more at risk of foot pain and swelling. “For nurses or healthcare workers who are walking and standing all day, compression helps minimize foot and ankle fatigue,” said Dr. Sharkey. She adds that athletics can also use this pain-relieving tool to reduce any swelling and discomfort post-workouts to support a faster recovery.
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These foot sleeves can also be used for other conditions like achilles tendinitis, ankle sprains, heel spurs, or varicose veins. However, the expert advises opting for knee high compression socks for long flights or travel to prevent blood clots. Whichever choice, just make sure the socks provide enough compression to be effective while not feeling uncomfortably tight.
Reviewers affirmed that the compression socks offer a soothing relief to feet. “[They’re] the best ones I have used, they are comfortable all day long and relieve most of my pain from walking,” said a shopper. Another user with “excruitating” plantar fasciitis raved that they can now “walk forever” thanks to the foot sleeves. Meanwhile, a final reviewer noticed “immediate relief” after “days of pain” in their feet.
Check out these podiatrist-approved socks if you want to ease the discomfort and swelling in your feet. Grab the Blitzu Compression Socks for just $10 at Amazon in a variety of fun colorways, from a vibrant blue to orange. Shop more pain relief treatments for feet, below.
Frankincense and Myrrh Foot Pain Relief Cream
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Dr. Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Pain Patches
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Walk Hero Insoles
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