How long should you wear compression socks?

It really depends why you’re wearing compression socks. If you have been advised to wear them after an operation, they should usually be worn as much as possible, day and night, until you’re able to move around freely. This is to prevent blood clots forming whilst you are inactive and resting in bed.

If you are wearing them to reduce the risk of DVT (deep vein thrombosis or blood clots) on a long flight, then it’s advisable to wear them for the duration of the flight and take them off soon after you land. It doesn’t matter how long the flight takes.

Some people wonder if you should take them off before going to bed for the night. If you are a fit and healthy individual and you’re not recovering from a recent operation then it’s advisable to remove them before going to bed.