Can you sleep in your compression socks or sleeves?

Can you sleep in your compression socks or sleeves?

Can you wear compression socks while sleeping? This is one of the most common questions athletes, travelers, and everyday wearers ask. The short answer is: no, not if you’re generally healthy. Compression socks and sleeves are designed for daytime use—not bedtime.

But don’t worry—compression gear is still a fantastic tool when used correctly. In this article, we’ll cover:
•    Why you shouldn’t sleep in compression socks or sleeves
•    Exceptions for medical conditions
•    The difference between socks and sleeves
•    Best times to wear compression for recovery and performance

Why You Shouldn't Sleep in Compression Socks or Sleeves

Compression socks and sleeves provide graduated pressure to your legs, meaning they are tighter at the ankle and gradually looser up the calf. This helps push blood back toward your heart when you’re standing, sitting, or moving around—essentially fighting gravity.
When you’re lying flat, however, your circulatory system doesn’t need that extra boost. Blood flows more easily back to your heart on its own. In fact, wearing moderate or high compression at night can actually restrict blood flow, which is the opposite of what you want (American Vein & Vascular Institute, 2023).

Bottom line: For healthy adults, don’t wear compression gear to bed.

Who Might Need Compression at Night?

There are some medical exceptions where doctors may recommend wearing nighttime compression garments while sleeping:
•    Post-surgical recovery
•    Lymphedema management
•    Chronic venous insufficiency or other vein conditions
Even in these cases, the recommendation is usually for low compression (below 15 mmHg) and always under medical supervision (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2024).
If you think you may need compression therapy at night, talk to your doctor first.

Best Times to Wear Compression Socks and Sleeves

Even though bedtime is off the list, there are plenty of times when compression socks and sleeves shine:
During Workouts
•    Helps stabilize muscles
•    Reduces vibrations that can lead to microtears
•    May prevent injuries like shin splints (Sports Health, 2015)
After Exercise
•    Boosts blood flow to recovering muscles
•    Clears lactic acid buildup
•    Reduces post-workout soreness (Cochrane Review, 2016)
Daily Use
•    Prevents swelling when you’re on your feet all day
•    Great for long flights or road trips
•    Provides energy support for hair stylists, nurses, teachers, and active professionals who spend long hours on their feet.

Compression Socks vs. Compression Sleeves: What’s the Difference?

Compression Sleeves (no foot portion)
•    Mild (15–20 mmHg): Perfect before, during, and after exercise. Great for muscle recovery.
•    Moderate (20–30 mmHg): Best during workouts only. Wearing afterward may cause foot swelling since sleeves stop at the ankle.
Compression Socks (with foot portion)
• They are more versatile because they cover the entire foot, reducing the risk of swelling or “tourniquet” effects.
•    Mild to moderate socks can be worn before, during, and after workouts—or even all day for support. 

Sources:

•    American Vein & Vascular Institute. (2023). Should You Wear Compression Socks to Bed?
•    Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024). Compression Therapy for Vein Health.
•    Sports Health. (2015). The Influence of Compression Clothing on Recovery After Exercise.
•    Cochrane Review. (2016). Graduated compression stockings for prevention of deep vein thrombosis.