Working as a receptionist in any other industry can get you in the door, but customer service positions also prove you're capable of dealing with the public -- as long as you have good references -- so retail or restaurant work is relevant experience for your resume.
Compression socks for runners are a super strong elastic sock, typically worn up to the knee. They compress veins on the surface of your leg, as well as arteries and muscles, so that blood is circulated through your legs through smaller circulatory channels.
Compression wear has been around for a long time in the medical field. They are typically socks or stocking of various lengths made up of various materials. They provide graduated compression against the leg. The purpose for them is to place pressure on blood vessels which will constrict those vessels.