Compression sleeves/socks - when to use? (Read 146 times)

I believe compression is a personal choice. I think the clinical research is mixed. I've use them for both running and recovery. During running I've use the compression sleeve over my calf, but I didn't really notice much difference. I've also used the compression shorts -- these I like during my interval days when I sweat a lot or on rainy days. Normal running shorts will bunch into a ball between my legs. The compression shorts stay nice and smooth and let me get on with my workout without having to tug at my shorts all the time.

Now when it comes to recovery; however, I'm a real believer in compression. I use the full-length compression socks up to my knee as well as the full length tights from ankle to the waist. I usually wear this get-up (my wife calls me her Baryshnikov) after just my hardest workouts, like my interval days, or long run days. I'll where the tights for several hours. I'm also a believer in ice. I've purchased a set of neoprene knee wraps and Achilles tendon wraps that have the gel inserts. The inserts go into the freezer overnight and then slide in a pocket within the neoprene wraps. These I apply to my legs for 20 minutes after every run no matter if it's an easy 6 miler, an interval session or long run. Sometimes I'll do a 2nd ice wrap session later in the day. I'm 50+ years, and this regime has worked for me as I've gotten back to running this year after a long, long departure from the sport. Good luck!

Supplying a quick answer to get your sample size up and to add two short other concepts.

I'll agree with Blue Rocket that the real research doesn't prove much other than compression does have some benefits if worn during recovery.  I will use calf sleeves and socks occasionally after long runs or harder workouts.

• Since I travel for work I will wear compression socks or sleeves while doing long trips (plane or car), they seem to help while you are stuck sitting for hours
• Compression  did help me survive a race while injured.  I used one sleeve on a pulled calf muscle during a race (Minor nagging injury became a bigger problem just before a marathon), did all the other stuff before (RICE) and KT tape/compression on that calf.  It actually felt pretty decent and even though it was slower pace than normal the calf held up pretty well.

Thanks, all!  I read an article last night that said the research is mixed but it seems as though the best use is for recovery and/or travel.  I ended up wearing sleeves during my 20-miler on Sunday, and they didn't seem to help as much as I thought they would.  They certainly didn't hurt me, though.  

Many thanks.

Ch17, I use 2 of the knee wraps and 2 of the Achilles' tendon wraps from MendMeShop.com.  If you get the Achilles wraps ask for the "King Brand" model that has the longer Velcro wraps, especially if you have average or above average sized calf muscles. They have great customer service and delivery.

My son in law who is a young doctor and rugby player in England strongly recommends the compression+ice gear from 110playharder.com. They make various compression gear that also has various pockets to hold their travel friendly ice packs. I haven't tried it yet as my 2XU tights, socks and the above mentioned ice wraps are doing the job. However, I have had some delays at airport security when I have the gel packs in my carry on suitcase. The ice packs from 110playharder.com look more travel friendly, plus they can also be put in the microwave for a heat treatment. Good luck.

Thank you!