Compression Socks for Raynaud's Relief: An Underused Solution

Raynaud’s disease (also known as Raynaud’s phenomenon or syndrome) can make cold weather miserable. When temperatures drop, or stress levels rise, blood vessels in the fingers and toes can narrow, reducing blood flow. In Raynaud’s disease, that narrowing response is higher than normal, which can severely limit blood flow to fingers, toes, and other areas. That’s why many people with Raynaud’s experience intense cold feelings, numb extremities, tingling, colour changes (white or blue, then red), and sometimes pain.

If your toes are often the first to suffer, graduated compression socks may be a practical everyday option for your Raynaud’s disease symptoms. By applying gentle, graduated pressure, compression socks will support your circulation. Warm, temperature-regulating fabrics also help you stay comfortable in colder conditions.

In this guide, we’ll explore whether compression socks can help with Raynaud’s, their benefits, and how to choose the right pair.

Yes, scientific evidence supports the idea that compression socks can help manage the symptoms of Raynaud’s disease thanks to how they improve blood flow. In fact, compression socks and stockings are recommended for management of most vascular diseases. High-quality graduated compression socks in warm fabrics (like merino wool) also work against Raynaud’s symptoms by keeping your extremities warm. 

According to the National Institute of Health, Raynaud’s occurs when blood vessels narrow because of low temperatures or stress. This causes less blood to flow to your extremities - fingers and toes. You may also see your skin change color (typically it turns white or a blue tint), and then red and numb and/or tingling. It can also be quite painful. 

Compression socks boost blood flow to the affected area while also massaging and warming up the lower limbs, which may reduce the discomfort caused by Raynaud’s disease.

A major scientific review of managing Raynaud’s phenomenon focuses on two major ways to address it:

1. Keeping your extremities warm
2. Improving peripheral circulation 

The key benefit of using graduated compression is that the therapeutic pressure helps improve blood flow by pushing blood towards the heart so there is less risk of swelling or blood clots. Using graduated compression to improve venous hemodynamics in the lower limb (e.g., increased venous flow velocity and reduced venous pooling) is well established. Some studies also report improvements in skin microcirculation measures (although results depend on pressure level and body position).

When blood flows better through the limbs, there are benefits for the whole body. If you suffer from Raynaud’s, this is great news for your toes and your fingers! As compression socks support venous return, they facilitate healthy blood circulation throughout the body. The result? Much lower risks of blood clots and fluid pooling at the periphery. Graduated compression leads to better energy levels, warmer hands and feet, and may reduce risk of symptoms of Raynaud’s condition setting in. 

Improved blood flow also facilitates movement and increases comfort levels. Instead of feeling your toes go numb because of Raynaud’s, compression socks keep the blood flowing to help your feet feel more energetic and mobile. Wear a pair of merino wool compression socks for warmth and better circulation, and add a pair of merino wool gloves for the hands, keeping both extremities feeling better and moving more easily. 

Finally, reviews of scientific evidence emphasize that protection from cold, wet, and wind is the cornerstone of Raynaud’s self-management. Choosing the right fabrics and using compression for better blood flow will both help achieve this protection

Graduated compression socks provide many benefits for your circulatory system all while massage your and soothe your legs. The scientific evidence that compression socks improve blood flow in venous disorders indicates that they are a great tool to help manage Raynaud’s symptoms and maybe even prevent the onset of symptoms.

Vim & Vigr graduated compression socks are tighter at the ankles and gradually release pressure towards the knee. This therapeutic pressure stimulates upwards blood flow, working against gravity’s downward pressure, to reduce the risk of blood clotting or pooling around the ankles. 

Combining this improvement in blood flow with a gentle massage enhances the benefits of compression socks for people suffering from pain and discomfort in the legs and feet due to Raynaud’s disease. Our socks can also provide support to your joints while protecting the lower legs from scrapes, scratches, and other similar injuries.

You may be able to prevent the onset of Raynaud’s disease symptoms by supporting your blood flow and keeping your extremities warm. The added blood flow facilitated by compression socks also works to soothe soreness and warm up the feet and toes. 

To lower the frequency of Raynaud’s attacks, medical advice focuses on keeping the whole body warm, avoiding sudden temperature changes, managing stress, and adding on lifestyle changes like avoiding or stopping smoking and regular exercise. The latter is where compression socks can also help, since they support the feet and lower leg muscles, stabilize the joints, and protect the lower legs from cuts, grazes, or the micro-vibrations from repeatedly landing on your feet (especially on hard ground, like when running on the road). 

So, you can consider compression socks for Raynaud’s as a useful addition to your wardrobe that is easy to wear and delivers multiple benefits, beyond the first obvious circulation boost.

The choice of fabric plays an important role in improving comfort levels when you suffer from Raynaud’s syndrome. 

The increase in blood circulation in and around the feet and legs already helps improve comfort levels and feel warmer. Additionally, wearing high-quality soft fabrics that are also known for their temperature regulating properties, like merino wool, is a great way to fight the symptoms of Raynaud’s disease. 

Vim & Vigr knee-length graduated compression socks made from merino wool are hypoallergenic and antibacterial. This makes the merino wool compression socks ideal for people suffering from various health conditions or for those whose lower leg skin may be particularly sensitive. In addition to keeping your feet warm, these socks are also breathable and moisture-wicking, which helps you avoid sweat and humidity. This means you can enjoy Vim & Vigr’s merino wool socks in any weather condition to have dry, warm, and happy feet.

Keep feet warm all year long thanks to compression socks.

Compression socks, and in particular the graduated design we offer at Vim & Vigr, help boost localized blood flow in the lower extremities. Thanks to this, Raynaud’s patients can avoid the tingling or painful sensations associated with the condition. Better circulation also keeps feet warmer and more comfortable regardless of the season and weather.

According to an article in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, applying graduated compression may increase the speed and volume of blood flow out of the legs. Vim & Vigr socks are designed to be tighter around the ankles with the pressure gradually releasing as the sock approaches the knee. This stimulates upwards blood flow, working against gravity’s downward pressure, to reduce the risk of blood clotting or pooling around the ankles.

Combining this improvement in blood flow with a gentle massage can enhance the benefits of compression socks for people suffering from pain and discomfort in the legs and feet due to Raynaud’s disease. Our socks can also provide support to your joints while protecting the lower legs from scrapes, scratches, and other similar injuries.

The great thing about Raynaud’s episodes is that, unlike poor circulation brought on by chronic venous disease or atherosclerosis, the circulation “glitch” is temporary and can be reversed.

The best way to treat or alleviate Raynaud’s symptoms is to try to prevent them altogether, with a combination of support for the blood flow in your extremities and keeping them warm. Compression socks are great for both. On the one hand, graduated compression stimulates blood flow and prevents any blockages and blood pooling, and on the other hand, the increase in circulation helps warm up the toes, while good-quality fabrics like merino wool are designed to keep you warm.

Improved blood flow also facilitates movement and increases comfort levels. Instead of feeling your toes go numb because of Raynaud’s, compression socks keep the blood flowing which could help your feet feel more energetic and mobile.

Discover merino wool compression socks for toasty toes.

Research shows that compression therapy improves circulation, which will help Raynaud’s patients regain warmth and mobility in their extremities. Additionally, wearing high-quality graduated compression socks offers joint and foot support, delivers a relaxing massage to muscles, which can help you improve your overall well-being.

Graduated compression stockings and socks boost peripheral circulation. Their design stimulates blood flow out from the extremities and back towards the heart. This prevents blood from pooling at the ankles and keeps it flowing through the feet and lower legs, which keeps you warm and comfortable while avoiding that feeling of “heavy legs.”

Raynaud’s patients mainly suffer from poor circulation as well as chills and tingling in the toes or other extremities (fingers, ears, lips). While wearing compression socks cannot heal the actual effect Raynaud’s has on the blood vessels, compression socks can improve patients’ overall well-being and boost their blood flow to the extremities. Compression socks also massage the feet and lower legs to soothe aches and discomfort. Finally, the support they provide for the limbs is welcome by those trying to stay active while recovering from a Raynaud’s episode.

Relax and soothe aching muscles with your favorite compression socks.

The increase in blood circulation in and around the feet and legs helps people suffering from Raynaud’s to improve comfort levels and feel warmer. Additionally, wearing high-quality soft fabrics that are also known for their thermal regulating properties, like merino wool, is a great way to reverse the symptoms of Raynaud’s disease.

At Vim & Vigr, our knee-length graduated compression socks made from merino wool are hypoallergenic and antibacterial. This makes the merino wool compression socks ideal for people suffering from various health conditions or for those whose lower leg skin may be particularly sensitive. In addition to keeping your feet warm, these socks are also breathable and moisture-wicking, which helps you avoid sweat and humidity. This means you can enjoy Vim & Vigr’s merino wool socks in any weather condition to have dry, warm, and happy feet.

When and how long to wear compression socks is a matter of personal preference. They can be kept on for as long as you feel comfortable, but we recommend that first-time users start with a few hours of wear and gradually increase the time up to a day (or even 24 hours). If you have any concerns about your circulation, be sure to consult with a medical professional.

You can wear your compression socks during the day. In fact, many professionals who spend a long time on their feet (like teachers, nurses, or hairdressers) can count on compression socks to prevent sore legs and stay energized, while avoiding swelling and problems with blood flow. Alternatively, you can also reach for your compression socks when your symptoms hit to alleviate your pain or chills. Wear them for as long as you feel comfortable to boost circulation and warm up your toes.

At Vim & Vigr, we offer a wide range of stylish compression socks and stockings to go with any outfit or activity. This helps you stay comfortable and pain-free during work, play, or sports, or while you are simply relaxing at home. But, to make the most of your compression wear, here is information about compression socks you should know.

Not all compression socks apply the same level of pressure to the limbs. In fact, the pressure from these garments is measured in mmHg and there are generally three ranges:

• 15-20 mmHg - casual, everyday compression socks you can wear to work or while recovering from your workouts that are firm enough to help boost circulation and keep feet warm for Raynaud’s patients.
• 20-30 mmHg - stronger pressure, usually recommended by medical professionals for those who suffer from blood clots or other circulatory issues; depending on your Raynaud’s symptoms, your doctor could encourage you to try these.
• 30-40 mmHg - medical grade, prescription-only socks used by patients with deep vein thrombosis, varicose veins, severe cases of circulatory problems, etc.; could be beneficial for Raynaud’s patients who also suffer from circulatory problems; consult with your doctor.

Depending on your symptoms and overall health condition, you could benefit from either of these three levels of compression. Speak to a medical professional and check out more information on compression levels here.

One of the best things about wearing compression socks to improve peripheral circulation is that you can choose from so many designs, styles, and materials. This ensures your garments are adapted to your activity levels and personal preferences, so you can feel stylish and comfortable while getting health benefits.

At Vim & Vigr, we know how important it is that your compression garments match your style. This is why we offer not just the classic knee-high compression socks in a wide range of colors and designs, but also variations that we know people need. These include open-toe compression socks to wear with sandals, calf sleeves, or full-length compression tights. If you suffer from Raynaud’s syndrome, your top choices will be classic compression socks or tights, so that you can cover your toes (the primary affected areas). However, outside Raynaud’s episodes, more choices exist.

Finally, material is important because it will dictate how comfortable and warm your toes will get:

• Merino wool is ideal for Raynaud’s patients because it is moisture wicking and thermoregulating - meaning that it will keep feet dry and warm in cold temperatures, but will also let them breathe enough to stay cool if it gets warm out; this is perfect for runners, for example, because it reduces the risk of sweaty feet, blisters, and discomfort, while also keeping bacteria away from feet.
• Cotton is an excellent choice for everyday wear, feeling soft and comfortable, but doesn’t keep your feet as warm as merino wool; cotton socks will still, however, boost blood flow and help reduce inflammation and swelling.
• Nylon is smooth and flexible, a really good choice for physical activity as it moves seamlessly with your body and feels very lightweight.

Before you pick your next pair of compression socks for Raynaud’s disease, make sure to measure the circumference of your calf muscles and then map that against your shoe size here. Using our sizing guide helps ensure that the socks you wear are tight enough to give you the circulatory boost you need, without causing pain or discomfort.

To be effective, compression socks need to be worn correctly to apply enough pressure to stimulate blood flow and help your lower limb veins carry the blood up towards the heart. At the same time, a common mistake is to wear socks that are too small, which ends up feeling uncomfortable and can even cut off your circulation, which could cause the opposite effect to what you are looking for. Conversely, if you wear them too loose, your socks will not give you the therapeutic pressure you need. They can even roll down and may cause accidents!

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. 2024. Raynaud’s Phenomenon. NIH.gov. Read it here.

Charles, T., Mackintosh, D., Healy, B., Perrin, K., Weatherall, M., & Beasley, R. (2011). Merino wool graduated compression stocking increases lower limb venous blood flow: a randomized controlled trial. Advances in therapy, 28(3), 227–237. Read it here.

Benko, T., Kalik, I., & Chetty, M.N. (1999). The physiological effect of graded compression stockings on blood flow in the lower limb: an assessment with colour doppler ultrasound. Phlebology, 14(1): 17-20. Read it here.

Herrick A. L. (2017). Evidence-based management of Raynaud's phenomenon. Therapeutic advances in musculoskeletal disease, 9(12), 317–329. Read it here.

Lim, C. S., & Davies, A. H. (2014). Graduated compression stockings. CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l'Association medicale canadienne, 186(10), E391–E398. Read it here.

Corliss, J. (2024). Icy fingers and toes: poor circulation or Raynaud’s phenomenon? Harvard Health Publishing. Read it here.