Shank Circumference Reduction by Sleep Compression Stockings in University Students and Convenience Store Cashiers

Compression stockings (CSs) are a relatively simple and effective tool for alleviating varicose veins and are often used as a preventive measure among workers whose jobs require prolonged standing. Nevertheless, the efficacy of CSs that are advertised as sleepwear remains unverified. This study recruited 10 female university students and 10 cashiers as participants to test the effects of sleep CSs. During the experiment, the changes in shank circumference (SC) and the subjective discomfort rating upon getting up and going to bed were collected. Data were recorded immediately after getting up and SC measurement was repeated 10 min later. The results demonstrated that both CS condition and measurement time significantly affected SC reduction, whereas cashier or student status did not. The reported discomfort and tightness of the legs attributed to CSs were relatively high, and the benefit toward SC reduction was minimal. Cashiers exhibited slightly larger SC values and higher perceived discomfort levels, which may be attributed to their occupational characteristic of prolonged standing, and the cumulative effect of prolonged standing on muscle properties warrants further study. The study findings suggest that wearing CSs for sleep may not be effective for reducing OE.