Compression garments are a key tool for managing edema by promoting fluid movement back into the circulation system. This can help reduce pain, swelling, and risk of infection. Elastic fabrics utilizing elastomeric fibers and yarns with substantial mechanical properties that exert significant pressure on needed body zones have been widely used for medical and sports applications.
Boosts Circulation
Compression garment fabric is increasingly used for athletes pushing boundaries and exercise enthusiasts looking to amplify their wellness benefits. They are touted to enhance performance, reduce swelling, prevent muscle soreness, and boost recovery. Yet, what is often overlooked is the significant impact they can have when it comes to increasing circulation and helping the body heal. Tight, breathable garments made of elastin and nylon are famous among fitness enthusiasts and athletes for enhancing the body’s ability to recover from strenuous activity. They are also a common choice for people who must stand for long periods and have been shown to help prevent deep vein thrombosis. They also have a significant role to play in post-surgery recovery for patients who undergo body contouring procedures, like breast augmentation. While the majority of studies that have been conducted on the effects of compression on blood flow and performance have been largely positive, results vary widely. For example, some research has found that reduction significantly increases blood flow and oxygen uptake in the vastus lateralis during exercise, while other studies have not seen these effects. It is also important to note that many studies conducted on athletic recovery and compression have needed to be bigger, making it difficult to draw a conclusive result.
Aids in Lymphatic Drainage
Compression garments, such as compression sleeves for legs or compression gloves and bras, use gradual sequential compression to encourage the movement of lymph fluid in a particular direction. They can help reduce mild to moderate lymphoedema and are usually prescribed by a trained specialist. These garments are typically designed to be worn during the day and taken off at night. Your specialist will advise on the best fit and length for each patient. A good fit is important for optimum therapeutic results. For example, a garment with a high compression class that is too tight can cause constriction and discomfort and lead to skin damage. The most effective treatment combines wearing compression garments and following your specialist’s exercise and movement plan. This will improve your lymph drainage and help reduce fluid retention, thereby preventing the progression of your lymphoedema. Compression garments and Velcro wraps can be more comfortable than bandages as they apply light pressure.
Prevents Edema
The compression forces exerted by the garments push against swollen areas, promoting fluid movement away from the extremities and back toward the heart. This reduces swelling, pain and itchiness and helps prevent blood clots. Compression garments also support joints and muscles, allowing the user to move more easily while minimizing muscle damage. The garments can be worn daily by people who do not have lymphoedema, boosting their performance and enhancing their quality of life. They can be worn in sleeves or full outfits and are available for arms, legs and even the chest. They are usually made out of nylon or elastin. They are available in various sizes, with the pressure levels differing depending on the model and size of the garment. Several studies have shown that wearing compression garments can significantly reduce the feeling of delayed onset muscle soreness after training sessions. This achy feeling occurs eight hours and two days after a strenuous training session. It can be caused by intense strength training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or a sports-specific combination of strength and cardio exercises. For the best results, when choosing a compression garment, it is important to consult with a medical specialist and get insurance coverage if you have a qualifying lymphoedema diagnosis. This will make the cost more affordable, and you’ll be able to stick with the treatment.
Promotes Muscle Recovery
After workouts, compression garments can help promote muscle recovery by impacting blood flow. The theory is that since blood returning from the lower legs and feet has to work against gravity, squeezing the veins (like pressing a hosepipe increases water pressure) can help improve blood flow back to the heart, reducing fatigue and soreness and assisting muscles to recover. While research is sparse, what little we have found suggests this can happen. The good news is that these garments can also help increase the oxygen available to working muscles during exercise. This, in turn, can improve performance and reduce the lactic acid build-up that can lead to muscle soreness. The results of the ergogenic effects of wearing compression garments while exercising have been mixed in the few studies conducted. In most protocols, however, using compression garments during exercise was associated with improved markers of venous return and muscle blood flow and improved perceived exertion and exercise performance. This is likely because compression garments can draw sweat out of the muscles and accelerate their evaporation, making for a less uncomfortable experience during workouts. It can also keep the wearer from becoming overheated. In addition, the evaporation of sweat can also reduce the amount of lactic acid that builds up in the muscles during exercise and leads to muscle soreness.