Can compression stockings increase blood flow and warm up cold feet?

I suffer from chronically cold feet due to a HR of 45 and poor circulation. Do you think that wearing compression socks would increase the blood flow to my feet, therefore warming them up a little?

Answers from doctors (13)


Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

Published on Mar 21, 2013

You can try, but it might not work.

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Answered by Americas Vein Centers - Southborough

You can try, but it might not work.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein Center

Published on Mar 19, 2013

No, compression stockings will not help with cold feet.

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Answered by Advanced Vein Center

No, compression stockings will not help with cold feet.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


General Vascular Surgery Group

Published on Mar 18, 2013

Probably wouldn't help much, but you might try them. A light weight, low compression variety would be best.

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Answered by General Vascular Surgery Group

Probably wouldn't help much, but you might try them. A light weight, low compression variety would be best.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vein Specialties of St. Louis

Published on Mar 18, 2013

You should have a thorough evaluation, ultrasound examination, and examination of your arterial circulation first. If the arterial circulation is functioning well, some patients state their feet do feel warmer in compression.
If you have impaired arterial function, compression hose should not be used except if advised by your cardiologist. Compression hose function by directing the superficial venous blood flow into the deep veins to take blood back to the heart. If you are cleared to use them, you would only need a light 15-20mmHg hose, but be sure they are fitted correctly. There are many styles to match your lifestyle.

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Answered by Vein Specialties of St. Louis

You should have a thorough evaluation, ultrasound examination, and examination of your arterial circulation first. If the arterial circulation is functioning well, some patients state their feet do feel warmer in compression.
If you have impaired arterial function, compression hose should not be used except if advised by your cardiologist. Compression hose function by directing the superficial venous blood flow into the deep veins to take blood back to the heart. If you are cleared to use them, you would only need a light 15-20mmHg hose, but be sure they are fitted correctly. There are many styles to match your lifestyle.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Arizona Vein Specialists

Published on Mar 18, 2013

You may be a poor candidate for compression stockings since it sounds like you may have some arterial insufficiency. Have your doctor perform a blood pressure test called an ankle/brachial index. You may also try a pair of plain woolen socks.

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Answered by Arizona Vein Specialists

You may be a poor candidate for compression stockings since it sounds like you may have some arterial insufficiency. Have your doctor perform a blood pressure test called an ankle/brachial index. You may also try a pair of plain woolen socks.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


More About Doctor Laser Vein Center

Published on Mar 18, 2013

Compression stockings may help and they definitely won't hurt.

Answered by Laser Vein Center (View Profile)

Compression stockings may help and they definitely won't hurt.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Published on Mar 18, 2013

Compression stockings increase the venous return back to the heart, but will not help with cold feet.

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Answered by Vanish Vein and Laser Center

Compression stockings increase the venous return back to the heart, but will not help with cold feet.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

Published on Mar 18, 2013

Try them and see what happens.



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Answered by Advanced Vein & Laser Centre, Ltd.

Try them and see what happens.



Published on Jul 11, 2012


Lubbock Vein Specialists

Published on Mar 18, 2013

Patients with arterial disease are not helped by compression stockings.

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Answered by Lubbock Vein Specialists

Patients with arterial disease are not helped by compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Michael F. Gioscia, MD, FACS, ABVLM

Published on Mar 18, 2013

No, compression stockings will not warm your feet. You need to be evaluated by a vascular surgeon.

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Answered by Michael F. Gioscia, MD, FACS, ABVLM

No, compression stockings will not warm your feet. You need to be evaluated by a vascular surgeon.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Published on Mar 18, 2013

Not likely, but I would try a light grade stocking with 15-20mmHg compression.

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Answered by Bella MD Laser Vein and Aesthetic Center

Not likely, but I would try a light grade stocking with 15-20mmHg compression.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

Published on Mar 18, 2013

No, compression stockings will not warm your cold feet.

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Answered by Cosmetic Vein Centers of Texas

No, compression stockings will not warm your cold feet.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


Heart and Vein Center

Published on Mar 18, 2013

You have to be careful. If your poor circulation is due to blocked arteries in your legs (PAD), the compression stockings can make it worse. You need a good evaluation of your leg circulation, vein and arteries before using compression stockings.

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Answered by Heart and Vein Center

You have to be careful. If your poor circulation is due to blocked arteries in your legs (PAD), the compression stockings can make it worse. You need a good evaluation of your leg circulation, vein and arteries before using compression stockings.

Published on Jul 11, 2012


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