Socks cause indentation Also, over the calf dress socks also prevent this by using less elastic. This condition causes fluid retention in the lower legs, leading to swelling. High BP causes fluid retention and affects blood circulation. Get expert advice on whether you're at higher risk of developing the disease, plus other key resources. This is not, necessarily, a sign that the stocking is too tight. Written by LegSmart, article updated on July 10, 2020. Understanding the causes of sock marks and how to prevent them can help you determine when they’re normal and when you might need to take action. In this blog post, we will explore the causes, prevention, and treatment options for easily imprinted skin. 25% wider in the foot and ankle – These socks have a more relaxed fit without binding and constricting, and are Edema. I can't tell you if that is from lymphedema or some other problem. It can be alarming to notice that your underwear leaves pronounced indentations in the skin about your waistline. Some kinds of antidepressants and blood pressure medications may lead to the unpleasant feeling of swollen feet. very sore. Harmless marks usually fade within minutes to an hour. Different materials, such as cotton and nylon, can have varying effects on sock-skin friction and indentation. Aug 11, 2020 · In such cases, excess fluid is formed in the lower feet or in other terms, fluid retention occurs which causes inflammation. Again, if you’re worried, avoid wearing tight socks or any socks, for that matter, and see what happens over the next several days. Those holes can lead to more problems than the next pair is worth. Aug 12, 2024 · Poor blood circulation, often linked with conditions like diabetes, varicose veins, or venous insufficiency, can cause fluid to accumulate in the lower extremities, making the skin more susceptible to indentations from socks. not long a few days at most. Pitting edema is something to be more concerned about, and if you push a finger into your tissue and it stays indented then you should talk to your doctor. Common culprits include skinny jeans, tight waistbands, snug bras, and socks with tight Feb 1, 2024 · What happens when your socks are too tight? Tight socks can cause several health problems. I've found all the men's socks by Lands End give me less of a calf indent, and I really like their wool ribbed over the calf socks. By choosing properly fitting socks, improving circulation through regular movement, and consulting with your healthcare provider if necessary, you can reduce the frequency and severity of Dec 11, 2024 · Socks are a staple of daily life, providing comfort, protection, and warmth to our feet. The effect may also be noticeable after removing a tight shoe or Sock-line hyperpigmentation is caused by socks or trousers that are too tight on an adult or baby's lower legs and ankles. When I was heavier (180-208lbs) it happened and I thought I just had larger calf’s. I get them too. Design Features and Benefits 1. I have spider veins in my ankles and on the side of my outer calf. Have you ever glanced down at your ankles only to find stubborn sock lines that refuse to fade away? You're not alone; sock lines can be a common occurrence. • Non-pitting edema is in general not caused by heart failure. Important to know when shopping for compression socks. While sock marks are usually harmless, they can sometimes be a sign of underlying issues like leg swelling or poor circulation. Skin Sensitivity. Published on Jul 11, 2012 Dec 1, 2011 · We can help! For some people, knee high compression stockings leave a mark below their knee. A visit to your doctor would help put your mind at ease and confirm what it really is. This has happened as long as I could remember. Mar 2, 2025 · Fabric Type: Different materials like cotton or nylon can affect sock-skin friction and indentation. May 28, 2024 · A slight indentation in the skin where the compression sock ends is normal, but compression socks should not cause pain, she explained. Oct 14, 2024 · We've all noticed those indentations left on our legs after taking off socks, especially after a long day. Understanding sock sizes is crucial in finding comfortable socks that won't leave deep impressions. Now, remember this: Compression socks can only work if you use them correctly. Oct 15, 2024 · Pitting edema occurs when fluid buildup under your skin causes swelling that leaves an indent when you press it. My non-professional recommendation…buy bigger socks and make some puppets for the kids. Mar 20, 2023 · Dig into the details about heart disease, including the causes, symptoms, and treatment options. They will cause deep red marks or indentation marks on your skin. One of the most effective ways to reduce sock marks is to choose socks with the right fit. it's about 2 maybe 3 inches going horizontal. This causes pitting edema, swelling which will leave a temporary indentation in the skin with pressure from a shoe, sock, or intentional pressure such as a squeeze with a finger. ” These indentations, and the puffiness above them, are signs of swollen legs (edema). We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Reply reply Sep 23, 2024 · Your tight socks will cause numbness and tingling. Feb 1, 2024 · Edema is swelling due to a buildup of fluid in tissues. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the condition, but may involve elevating the feet, wearing compression socks, or taking certain medications. Oct 5, 2020 · Can dehydration cause pitting edema? There are many potential causes for pitting edema, including poor circulation, obesity, pregnancy, dehydration, and injuries. Sep 17, 2023 · I had also stopped wearing regular, shorty jogging socks, and gone to the more loosely woven “diabetic” socks, with some success in terms of foot pain and numbness. is it heart failure?what do i do?: Edema CHF?: The reason you are both having edema is in part related to Jul 7, 2022 · Symptoms of pitting edema include swelling, which causes the skin surrounding it to tighten, the position that you are in will affect edema, and the skin over the swollen area appears shiny and light, and, often when a finger is placed on the swollen area and indentation is left on the skin. In this article, we will go over how compression socks should feel, how to tell if compression socks are We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Mar 4, 2025 · In chronic cases, compression socks can be used to promote circulation in the affected limb. Pressure from the elastic leaves a mark. Small pits or indentations on the soles of your feet or Aug 25, 2022 · Socks that are too big can cause blisters and friction. Customer: Hi doc,Is it considered edema to have 'sock marks' or indentations around your waistband when you take your shoes and pants off? I have no swelling or obvious fluid buildup whatsoever,and I'm pretty lean so I think any swelling would be easily noticed, but whenever I come home and undress I notice the pattern of my socks impressed upon my feet and marks from the waistband of my pants Compression socks (long ones!) and more fluids should help (fluids will increase blood volume which should make it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the Aug 25, 2022 · What does it mean if my socks leave indentations? When socks leave an indentation, it is typically the result of peripheral edema. So this may still be entirely normal. If the red line continues then switch brand of stockings. Socks with tight elastic bands can restrict blood flow. length wise not long at all. Leavey was formerly with Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, MD, where his focus was primary care and internal medicine. Mar 17, 2023 · A straightforward way to keep them happy? Wearing the right socks. What Causes Easily Imprinted Skin? There are several factors that can contribute to the ease with which your skin imprints. Aug 15, 2023 · Tight Socks: The most common reason is simply wearing socks that are too tight, causing temporary indentations on the skin. When you wear socks that are too tight or have strong elastic bands, they can compress the skin and underlying tissues, leaving temporary impressions on your legs. What causes your socks to leave indentations. It can cause poor blood flow and swellings on the feet and ankles. To prevent problems stemming from wearing the wrong socks, you have to choose socks that will not cause you problems. Can dehydration cause pitting edema? There are many potential causes for pitting edema, including poor circulation, obesity, pregnancy, dehydration, and injuries. Notice the wide elastic band at Jul 20, 2023 · This condition can cause itchiness and smelly feet. This can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience for many individuals. Mar 27, 2025 · Most of us have worn socks that were too tight or kept them on for too long, leading to subtle indentations around our legs or ankles. Socks that are too small can also cause May 7, 2024 · This can happen when fluid retention occurs in your lower legs, causing painful swelling and noticeable indentations after wearing socks. The tightness, especially from elastic bands, causes inflammation in the dermis (lower layer of skin) or in the subcutaneous fat. Being obese can cause excess fat in your abdomen and pelvis to push on blood vessels Apr 28, 2023 · Hi @tb01, I'm not sure if the tight socks at the top causes anything other than the little indentation at the top edge of the socks. 469-341-5997 713-575-3686 713-575-3686 (Houston) 469-341-5997 (Dallas) What Causes Sock Marks? The primary reason for sock indentations and marks is the elastic material used in socks. 1. There may be some indentation in the skin from the band that helps secure the stocking from drifting downward. These marks are typically harmless and resolve within a few hours after removing the socks. But if the indentation is deep and the mark of the socks is on the foot, then you have swelling. In fact, many people -- after a long day of standing at work, would have "pooling" of fluid in the legs, just due to gravity, and have indentations of their socks in their feet. in my first week of strenuous workouts. Here are some of the most common causes: Tight Socks: Socks that are too tight can dig into your skin. What Causes Sudden Indentation On Leg? There are several potential causes for a sudden indentation on the leg. They also can prevent sweat from evaporating, increasing the chance of foot odor or fungus! Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like what systemic pathologies does a PT screen for in Integumentary exam, observations of integumentary systems review, palpations of integumentary systems review and more. They can be a sign of underlying issues. Nov 14, 2024 · Here are 3 reasons why snug performance socks are a good thing: Snug socks protect foot health by flexing and moving with the body, instead of against it, preventing blisters and providing support; Snug socks that blend Merino Wool with stretchy elastic fibers are more durable and perform longer, meaning you buy less frequently Feb 26, 2019 · What Causes Peripheral Edema? Older people are at a higher risk of having large collections of fluid around the feet. The primary cause of sock indentations is the pressure exerted by the elastic band of the socks on the skin. Common Causes. Jun 10, 2022 · Tight socks cut off circulation and leave an indent in your skin where the elastic is. Check your sock drawer and discard any socks stretched out over time and any that may have a hole or two. For a few months, i have large indentions from my socks on the left leg / above the ankle. Oct 9, 2024 · When dealing with edema, you might often notice your socks leaving more pronounced indentations, as the swelling causes your legs to expand. This discomfort is especially important to monitor if you're wearing socks like the JOBST forMen Compression Socks 8-15 mmHg Knee High Closed Toe or the mediven active 15-20 When an indentation remains after the swollen skin is pressed, this is called pitting edema. In addition to causing indentations, tight socks can also restrict circulation and cause discomfort, particularly if you are wearing them for extended periods of time. Lipedema Effects: Abnormal fat distribution causes visible dents and tenderness. Let’s explore some common causes. The signs are n ot always a cause for worry, unless the p itting does not clear Nov 24, 2024 · Common Causes. M ost of us have worn socks that were too tight or kept them on for too long, leading to subtle indentations around our legs or ankles. im having alot of lower leg swelling and retaining water. You need to get evaluated and start wearing compression stockings and consider treatment. Sometimes people who wear compression socks stop wearing them because they find them to be intolerable. Nov 18, 2022 · Bottom line: You want your socks to feel snug from toe to heel but not too tight that they leave an indentation. That said, there are instances where these imprints may signal an underlying health condition. These indentations, which can appear as deep grooves or marks around the ankles or calves, can be a curious and sometimes concerning phenomenon. The tight elastic on the cuffs can also cause indentation on the mid-calf area. Socks leave indent on legs A member asked: Slight swelling above my ankle below my sock line. Hi--- when I wear tight socks they leave a ring/ indentation on my leg--What is causing this Ask A Doctor - 24x7 is a leading consumer-centric health company founded to transform how people approach their overall health and wellness. But where did it come from? And should you be concerned? As it turns out, there are lots of different causes of swollen legs. But when used incorrectly, they can cause side effects, including cutting off circulation and skin irritation. Choosing the Right Socks. Edit: You can try looking up methods to at least make it go away faster or have it less noticeable, though, like if you have a date or something later that day and dont want them to be that visible. Persistent marks that occur daily, even with looser socks, could signal underlying fluid retention or circulation issues. However, edema can sometimes result from an underlying health condition, such as renal or heart failure. The socks shouldn’t shift in your shoes when walking either. Wearing tight socks can cause indentations. In this blog post, we will explore the possible causes, symptoms, and treatment options for sudden indentations on the leg. Tight Socks: The most common cause of sock marks is wearing socks that are too tight. I used to have them before I was diagnosed with lymphedema in my legs and had to start wearing compression socks just below the knee to keep the leg swelling down during the daytime. I would first try a topical lotion such as aloe before applying the stocking. What are the most important facts to know about pitting edema? Pitting edema occurs when excess fluid in the body causes swelling that indents when pressure is applied. Edema usually isn’t painful by itself, but wearing shoes and socks may feel uncomfortable if your legs and feet are swollen. This is common and not a cause for concern. Individuals with more sensitive skin may notice sock marks more frequently. Make sure that you won’t wear them wrinkled as that can only cause more problems. But what does it mean Jul 15, 2024 · Lines from your socks can be a sign of leg swelling and edema. Mar 17, 2024 · Socks leave indentations on legs due to pressure from stretchy fibers, which can cause marks. For example, I was out in the cold today, so I wore capri athletic pants with quick dry pants with elastic ankles over wool socks and muk-luks boots over socks/pants. When lymph will be able to transfer extra freely, your tissues knowledge a lessen in swelling. Next, try to steer clear of very dark colored socks. Apr 12, 2016 · If you have a regular size foot or an extra wide foot up to 5E, and are so tired of tight socks that squeeze your feet and leave huge indentations on your ankles then these quarter socks are for you. When Your Socks Leave Indentation on Legs Causes and Solutions. Jan 11, 2018 · The hose are not supposed to leave a line around the ankle, cut off circulation or cause fluid to build up in the foot. Several factors can cause sock indentations. Indentations on your legs from socks can be bothersome. Clothes that are too tight can restrict blood flow and cause pressure on certain areas, resulting in red marks, indentation, or even skin discoloration. This can leave noticeable marks on your skin. Nov 20, 2024 · If the socks dig into your skin, cause discomfort around your calf, ankle, or knee, or leave deep indentations, it’s a clear indication that the socks may be too small. Duration Mar 13, 2023 · High blood pressure is the most common cause Swelling happens when excess fluid builds up in your lower legs. However, for many people, the experience of wearing socks occasionally results in visible indentations on their skin after removing them. Standing or sitting for too long can also cause swelling. Several benign causes are possible, such as standing for long periods. Pitting edema occurs when an indent is left after a finger is pressed down on the area of the body affected by edema. Everyone has a different leg, and some people have soft skin below their knee and compression stockings will leave a mark in soft skin. Nov 25, 2024 · Wearing tight-fitting socks means pressure temporarily compresses the skin and underlying tissue, which causes the socks to leave marks on your skin. Fluid Retention: Excess fluid can cause temporary indentations in legs. Dr. Certain medications can also cause lower leg swelling. Feb 26, 2021 · This article discusses what can cause socks to leave marks on the legs in more detail and explains when a person should contact a doctor. If there is too much swelling near the knee, a knee high compression stocking might not be Jul 10, 2020 · This article explains the 5 Signs that your Compression Stockings, socks, diabetic socks, and compression running socks are a bad fit. Apr 13, 2022 · How Tight Should Compression Socks Be? Our compression socks use graduated compression technology (designed in partnership with vascular surgeons) to help prevent blood from pooling in your lower leg. This happens because the elastic in socks compresses the soft tissue beneath the skin, leaving behind a visible mark. This is because their skin is more reactive to pressure and indentation. Sep 15, 2022 · sock indents = swelling. Nov 8, 2023 · Pitting Edema Definition. Socks do more than keep feet warm. Malnutrition can cause low levels of albumin, a protein that helps keep fluid in your blood vessels. What Apr 28, 2023 · A very little indentation is normal from any socks for anyone. Pitting edema is when an indentation remains after pressing swollen skin. For people with diabetes or circulation issues, the right pair of socks can make a huge difference in overall comfort and health. Some common causes include: Dec 4, 2024 · While tight socks are the most common cause of these indentations, it’s important to address any additional factors that may be contributing to the problem. Jul 17, 2019 · only to notice days later I have a horizontal indentation between the hip bone and thigh on the left side. Causes of Tight Socks Peripheral Edema Peripheral edema can intensify the marks left by tight socks. Some of the causes of leg edema due to elevated venous pressures include: Venous insufficiency, a failure of one-way valves in the veins, Aug 21, 2024 · Compression socks work by squeezing your leg tissues and veins to force the blood to return to the heart. Look for socks with a looser fit around the calf and ankle, or consider trying no-show socks which typically have less elastic at Poor Diet: High salt intake can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the legs. Literally every piece of what I mentioned left an indent in my skin and tissue (to include ridges in the socks and the actual stitching of my athletic capris). When socks leave an indentation, it is typically the Sep 3, 2019 · Most socks contain elastic to keep them from slipping down. ) We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Injury Impact: Swelling from injuries may result in temporary leg indentations. Material: The fabric used in compression socks can vary, and some materials may be more prone to leaving marks than others. It’s a symptom of several conditions, but some causes are more serious than others. This is commonly caused by the material and knit of the socks. That said, there But indentations in the skin from socks (or around your waist from pants or panties) do not always mean a pathological cause of edema. • The swelling that occurs from obesity is non-pitting, meaning, if you press a fingertip to it, the resulting indentation disappears fairly quickly. I stopped wearing any sock resulting in even the slightest indentation in the skin of my foot or ankle. Monitor the Duration and Frequency. They help prevent blisters, regulate temperature, and add a layer of protection between your skin and your shoes. After taking off shoes or socks, you may notice socks indentation marks. “Sock or any indentations for that matter occur when pressure displaces fluid in the underlying tissue,” says Jenepher Piper, a family practice nurse practitioner for Maryland Family Care for 25+ years and a Dec 18, 2022 · This can be especially noticeable in socks that are made from synthetic materials, as these materials tend to be more rigid and less flexible than natural fibers like cotton or wool. Edema itself is a condition where excess fluid accumulates in the body’s tissues, leading to swelling that typically affects the extremities, such as the arms, legs, hands, and feet, but can occur anywhere in the body. People who wear compression socks often find them to be uncomfortable. When is the best time to wear compression socks?. So, yes, they will feel tight! However, compression socks should always feel comfortable. Understanding why socks leave marks can help ease your worries. Apr 7, 2014 · My compression stocking is pinching the top of my knee and leaving sore marks, should I continue to wear it? - The knee-high compression sock is pinching the top of my knee and leaving sore marks (indentations). The pressure applied by compression socks improves the flow of the fluid known as lymph that are available during the cells in your legs. This week, I talk about why this happens and what to do about it. (Or wash them well before you wear them. The effect may also be noticeable after taking off a tight shoe or stocking. Certain types of contraception (especially birth control pills that contain estrogen) can change hormone levels in a woman’s body and cause water retention and leg swelling. For individuals with blood circulation problems, tight socks can cause pain and tingling sensation. Congestive heart failure often causes edema. wat would be the cause? just had blood tests &there were no indications f liver or kidney probs Jun 12, 2024 · After taking off your socks at the end of a long day, you may notice “sock lines. It can be a cause for concern and may indicate an underlying health issue. It's not necessarily a health problem if it occurs after a long day on your feet, but then goes away within a few minutes after removing your socks and elevating your feet. Sep 14, 2023 · One of the most common reasons for clothes leaving marks on the skin is the tightness of the garment. If the elastic is digging into your skin and even causing itching, it’s time to go up a size. Answered by David Green, MD (View Profile). Here, doctors answer the question, “When […] Nov 28, 2024 · If the indentation seems unusually deep or swelling extends beyond the area, it may cause concern. Discontinue their use and get properly fitted for a new pair. Apart from blood flow, they also have the same effect on your lymphatic fluid. Muscle Atrophy: Muscle loss leads to noticeable dents from inactivity. What Causes Sock Marks? Sock marks form when socks exert pressure on your skin, causing a temporary indentation. When levels drop, fluid leaks out into your tissues, leading to edema. When combined with the pressure exerted by snug socks, it exacerbates the indentation and discomfort. Even not-so-tight panties can cause this, and the more patterned the underpants, the more intricate the indentations in your skin! Does this mean edema from congestive heart failure? Jul 17, 2019 · Are the indentations going across the leg or up and down? Are the indentations only in your thighs? Most reasons for thigh indentations are of little consequence. 2. compression socks are not recommended for diabetics because it can damage their feet by potentially cutting off circulation. Sometimes it is hard to explain various symptoms as due to the stockings. Compression socks don’t do any good unless you wear them. Oct 7, 2013 · I have seen compression stockings leave red lines, indentations, cause aching and cramping and even pain. Mar 13, 2025 · Compression socks are designed to apply pressure to the legs, which can cause temporary indentations or marks on the skin. Keep track of how long the marks last. Wearing long socks for many hours in a day (I assume you work 8ish hrs) makes it kind of impossible to avoid this. Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Remaining in one position for an extended period can lead to sock marks, especially if your socks are on the snug side. Socks can leave indents around your ankles at the end of the day due to swelling. my socks leave deep crease in my legs. Learn how to diagnose and treat this symptom of vein disease. Tight Socks. Let’s delve into the common reasons behind these sock indentations. That said, there Feb 19, 2025 · A very little indentation is normal from any socks for anyone. My socks have always left indentations on my ankles/legs that turn red and itch and are a little painful. Simple remedies, like drinking more water and refraining from water retaining liquids like tea and coffee could help. Nov 22, 2024 · They might even cause a bit of concern. The fabric type plays a significant role in determining whether socks cause weird indentations on your legs. The opposite essentially, there's no elastic in diabetic socks. First, avoid socks with tight bands at the calf, as these could reduce blood flow to your feet. My job requires me to stand all day. May 22, 2020 · Compression socks can help support healthy circulation in many people. It’s not uncommon that socks leave marks on your skin, especially if you’re wearing them with shoes. my husband's are the same only his legs are red and has water blisters and leaks clear. Look for socks with a looser fit around the calf and ankle, or consider trying no-show socks which typically have less elastic at Choosing the Right Socks. Oct 23, 2024 · 1. If you answer the questions, I can help some more with possibilities. It’s, unsurprisingly, from socks I have that are too narrow. I can see it happening more if you are, say, hiking and have increased blood flow. Due to numbness, your feet might feel cold or pale. Read on to learn more about what it is, how it’s diagnosed, treatment, and more. If you have ankles and lower legs that look like this, you may have venous insufficiency. There will be pain and discomfort. I can't tell you if One of the biggest complaints about compression socks is that they are too tight. If it continues, you should consult your doctor. Socks and shoes will likewise leave an impression. Some common causes include: I find socks with a wider elastic strip at the top help prevent this by spreading the pressure more evenly. Some are nothing to worry about. Other Socks That Hurt Your Feet. Socks that are too small can restrict movement of your toes, causing injury or cramping . jjun yoi cgp adali zpamb odlrlq bsw kgvc fiqmolz lmamb cmtkqc kkigkp fhoj xrsxrm ghauk