![]() The elasticity of compression shorts may also provide support for joint movements. This is particularly beneficial in high speed sports like running. ![]() According to a landmark study published in the Medicine & Science in Sports and Exercise journal, “a small aerodynamic drag reduction" can result in a performance increase. A streamlined silhouette created by smooth, tight-fitting shorts reduces drag. Running in compression shorts makes you more aerodynamic. ![]() But compression may offer additional running benefits. "They think they perform better, so for me, that's enough.By putting pressure on your muscles, compression increases blood flow and sends more nutrients to your muscles, giving them more of what they need to perform at their best during strenuous activity. While it may help with temperature regulation, many of the performance benefits are likely placebo, Scantlebury hints. "Anyone with more severe swelling may want to give higher pressure gradients a try." Can compression socks help improve performance?Īside from their potential benefits for travelers, nurses and teachers (or anyone else who spends a lot of time on their feet), some people have also been interested in whether they can help performance for exercises or sports. You'll typically see anywhere between 20 to 60 mmHg. "That's the metric for how much pressure is getting applied from the sock," Scantlebury summarizes. When looking at compression garments, you'll often see them labeled with measurements in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). However, this style may provide lower levels of compression. The nonmedical stockings are some of the most common ones you'd find from major retailers, Wu says. "Which is great, because typically, distally - or further away from the heart - is where things pool, so I like those," Scantlebury adds. ![]() This option provides more circulation and improvement in oxygen flow. With graduated compression socks, the level of compression is greater at the foot (around your ankles or calves) with a looser fit at the end. "Simple compression socks are great to help control that swelling." What are the different types of compression socks?Īccording to Wu, there are three main types of compression socks: Anti-embolism (typically reserved for medical use), graduated compression socks and general nonmedical support garments. For those feeling the effects of swelling from long periods of travel or from working on their feet all day, compression socks can provide a bit of relief.įor travelers, Scantlebury says that "a lot of people's feet swell up when they go on planes" due to the change in pressure. For those post-op or those with lymphedema, swelling is common and compression garments are often recommended for recovery and to manage the discomfort. Scantlebury adds that this can be particularly helpful in medical cases where it's beneficial to reduce uncontrolled swelling. "That compression, or that constriction, actually helps assist with the fluid being pumped and moved throughout the system." "The basic science behind is helping improve blood flow and blood circulation," Scantlebury suggests. This can cause pressure, pain and uncomfortable swelling in your lower half. When you stand or sit for a period of time, the fluid in your body moves down toward your legs, "because of gravity," Wu adds. "When someone uses compression gear, the whole point is to minimize or prevent fluid buildup in a body part." "Compression gear is technically a tight sock or stocking," Wu says. Plus, we shared some of our favorite options on the market - including a Shop TODAY Travel Gear Awards winner! What are compression garments? Karena Wu, owner and clinical director of ActiveCare Physical Therapy, to get all the details. Kellen Scantlebury, physical therapist and founder of Fit Club NY, and Dr. But is there anyone in particular who can benefit from them? And is there a difference in the various options available? If you've ever noticed that your legs or feet feel swollen and uncomfortable during a long flight or after a day on your feet, you might benefit from adding a pair of compression socks to your closet.Īccording to experts, compression garments can have numerous benefits, ranging from helping with recovery after major surgery to alleviating some of the stiffness you might feel after a red-eye flight.
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