Compression gear for recovery (Read 373 times)

So, I've seen a few posts here and there about the alleged virtues of compression gear.  I saw one other thread on it but I figured a new one couldn't hurt... especially if it devolves into heated insults or discussion of chaffing and nether regions.

Anyway, a triathlete friend of mine has been turned on to wearing compression tights while sleeping.  His coach claims that this aids recovery greatly.  Either it is placebo or it works but he says that they work.  I've googled around and seen other triathletes talking about the benefits of compression wear.

So, I am wondering how many of you guys wear compression stuff for recovery?  Is it snake oil at its finest? 

I have a piriformis that periodically likes to freak out.  I'm wondering if compression might alleviate some of this. I'm secretly hoping it is snake oil so I can save my money