“Compression socks gently squeeze the legs, which increases pressure in the tissue beneath the skin, keeping the blood moving,” Dr. Ross says. And by increasing blood flow, compression socks can potentially reduce swelling, inflammation, varicose veins, blood clots, and general pain and discomfort. Carrie Danielsen, L.P.N., Director of Assisted Living Operations for Nightingale Healthcare, agrees. “Compression socks help with blood circulation, they help reduce swelling, and they provide added support for professionals who need to be highly functional on their feet,” she says.