Nonprescription padded ... support socks in treatment of mild to moderate venous insufficiency

Thirty-six men with mild-to-moderate venous insufficiency (as measured using Doppler ultrasound techniques), ranging in age from 27 to 83 years, participated in this modified single-crossover study. Participants wore two types of clinically-tested padded socks for three months --half the group wore crew-length clinically-tested padded socks and the other half wore over-calf support clinically-tested padded socks. After one month, those in the group wearing the crew length clinically-tested padded socks were switched to over-calf support clinically-tested padded socks, if in the initial assessment they were in the lower 50th percentile in venous insufficiency.

In the study population the results were as follows:

• Improved circulation in feet and in legs as measured by deep venous valve function and venous capacity was experienced in all of those wearing clinically-tested padded socks with properly fitted shoes.
• During the three months, the number and severity of vascular complaints decreased dramatically.

Conclusion: People with the feeling of chronic aching and fatigue in their feet and legs will actually improve with clinically-tested padded socks. [The conclusion also supports IPFH’s suggestion that clinically-tested padded socks, as part of an integrated approach, with shoes with non-slip outsoles and any inserts or orthotics prescribed or recommended by a doctor or foot health professional, can produce therapeutic and preventive benefits for other foot issues where circulation is a critical factor]