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Compression garment
Compression garment
Compression garment
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Elastic material used in the fabrics of a summer cycling attire comprising a jersey, bib shorts and gloves.
For their use in ADHD, see Weighted vests for children.

Compression garments are pieces of clothing that fit tightly around the skin. In medical contexts, compression garments provide support for people who have to stand for long periods or have poor circulation. These come in varying degrees of compression, and higher degree compression sleeves, such as sleeves that provide compression of 20–30 mmHg or higher, typically require a doctor's prescription.[1] Compression garments worn on the legs can help prevent deep vein thrombosis and reduce swelling, especially while traveling.

Compression can also be used for post surgeries, to help with the healing process. Garment usage varies per patient but can be worn up to a year. There are also second stage compression garments, that are every day wear.

In sports, form-fitting compression sportswear, usually made of spandex, is commonly worn by athletes and in exercise to prevent chafing and rashes.

Medical use

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Compression stockings and socks

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Main article: Compression stockings
A man in compression tights

Compression stockings and socks are hosiery specifically designed to help prevent the occurrence of various medical disorders relating to blood circulation in the legs. They can also be used to halt the progression of these disorders.

Compression gloves

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Compression gloves are handwear designed to help prevent the occurrence of various medical disorders relating to blood circulation in the wrists and hands. They can be used to treat the symptoms of arthritis,[2] although a 2015 review found studies on efficacy were inconclusive.[3]

Maternity wear

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A bellyband, wrap, or abdominal binder is a compression garment which resembles a tubetop but worn over the abdomen of expectant mothers.[4] Bellybands are also commonly worn post-childbirth to help provide abdominal and back support thereby making it easier to perform day to day tasks, and to help mothers with their posture.

Ventral hernia repair

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Abdominal binders have been used after operations for ventral incisional hernia repair in the belief that this would decrease the risk of complications, such as seroma and surgical site infections, although there is little evidence for this practice. A 2024 meta-analysis showed lower rates of surgical site infection, pain, and better recovery for open surgical techniques; no conclusion was drawn for minimally invasive surgeries.[5]

Sportswear

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Speed-skater Chiara Simionato in a bodysuit
Beach volleyball player Sara Goller in tights

Compression sportswear (shirts, shorts, sleeves, socks or underwear) is usually worn by athletes who wish to enhance performance or recovery speed. Garments are form-fitting garments often made from a spandex-type material.

Depending on the material used and the requirements of the sport, compression garments can be designed to keep athletes cool or warm. For example, speedskaters can wear compression bodysuits on the cold rink, while beach volleyball players can wear a similar-looking suit made of a more breathable, lightweight blend. Both use moisture wicking materials like nylon and spandex in order to keep the garment lightweight. Additionally, speed skaters can use the aerodynamic nature of wearing a skintight suit to their advantage, while a beach volleyball player has the added benefit of SPF 50+ garments to keep them protected during sunny days.[6] The athletes pictured show some alleged benefits that make compression garments popular in a wide range of sports and different designs.

Shorts and tights

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United States Air Force Academy hurdler in full compression uniform

Compression shorts and tights are usually worn by athletes. They are form-fitting garments and cover the wearer's waist to mid or lower thigh, similar to cycling shorts. They are referred to as spats in Japan and safety shorts in South Korea.

Many are available with a cup pocket, a sewn-in pocket that can hold a protective cup. It is arguable that compression shorts do not keep cups in the proper position, tight to the body and not moving, as a jockstrap can. Some male players wear the compression shorts over the traditional jockstrap.[7][failed verification]

Compression shorts are also popular among female athletes, especially amongst those who wear skirts or kilts during games. In those situations, athletes wear compression shorts under the skirt so if they fall over and their skirts ride up, their underwear will not be exposed. This is seen particularly in women's lacrosse and field hockey (both being limited contact sports in which players often wear skirts). Women also wear compression shorts in tennis, where, most recently, compression shorts have been produced with ball pockets for convenience.[8]

Performance

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Although there are strong claims that compression garments could improve sports performance, methodological approaches and the direction of evidence regarding garments for use in high-intensity exercise settings are diverse and in certain scenarios do not show clear positive evidence.[9]

The conclusion of this 2018 meta-analysis showed that lower-limb compression garments were not associated with improved running performance, vertical jump, VO2max, VO2submax, lactate concentration, or rating of perceived exertion during high-intensity exercise.

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Compression garment

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
A compression garment is a form of elastic engineered to apply graduated mechanical pressure to the body, typically strongest at the extremities and decreasing toward the core, to enhance circulation and support tissues. These garments, often made from elastomeric fibers and yarns, are designed for targeted compression on limbs, the , or the full body, distinguishing them from standard apparel by their therapeutic intent. Originating in ancient medical texts like the Corpus Hippocraticum (circa 450–350 BC), compression therapy evolved with the invention of elastic stockings in 19th-century , leading to modern applications in both clinical and athletic contexts. Medically, they treat conditions such as by improving venous return and reducing , with pressure levels ranging from 20–50 mmHg for stockings used in varicose vein management or post-surgical recovery. They also aid in control through tight-fitting sleeves or stockings that minimize fluid buildup, and in scar management for burns or injuries by applying 20–30 mmHg to flatten hypertrophic tissue when worn 23 hours daily for up to a year. In , compression garments mitigate exercise-induced , enhance muscle recovery, and improve blood flow, with athletes wearing them during activity or post-exercise to decrease swelling and soreness. Common types include knee-high or thigh-high , arm sleeves, gloves, full-body suits, and specialized like or , all calibrated within a comfort range of 14.7–29.4 mmHg to avoid discomfort. Benefits extend to orthopedic support for joint stability and even for countering microgravity effects, underscoring their versatility across health and performance domains.

Fundamentals

Definition and Purpose

Compression garments are specialized elastic articles of clothing designed to apply controlled mechanical to specific body areas, such as the limbs or , in order to stabilize, compress, and support underlying tissues. These garments typically incorporate elastomeric fibers and yarns that exert graduated , which is highest at the distal ends (e.g., ankles or wrists) and decreases progressively toward the proximal areas (e.g., calves or upper arms), facilitating improved venous return and lymphatic drainage. The applied is quantified in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), with therapeutic levels often ranging from 20 to 50 mmHg depending on the application and body region. The primary purposes of compression garments include enhancing blood circulation, preventing or reducing (fluid buildup), aiding in physical recovery, and providing to improve comfort during prolonged activity or immobility. By promoting flow and minimizing stasis, these garments help mitigate risks associated with poor circulation, such as swelling and tissue damage, while also supporting muscle function and stability in various scenarios. Compression garments fall into broad categories based on their intended use: medical for therapeutic applications like managing circulatory issues; athletic for performance enhancement and recovery during sports; and cosmetic, such as shapewear or girdles, for body contouring and aesthetic support.

Mechanism of Action

Compression garments function by applying controlled external pressure to the limbs, primarily enhancing venous return through mechanical compression of superficial and deep veins. This reduces venous diameter and optimizes valve function, propelling blood upward against gravity toward the heart. Compression narrows superficial veins (low pressure, compressible), increasing velocity and pushing blood toward the heart. Deeper arteries (high pressure, thicker walls) resist compression, maintaining inflow. The pressure also augments the skeletal muscle pump mechanism, where contractions during movement further assist in blood propulsion, improving overall circulatory efficiency. Physiologically, this compression diminishes capillary filtration by lowering the transmural across capillary walls, thereby restricting fluid extravasation into interstitial spaces and mitigating formation. It concurrently reduces orthostatic blood pooling in dependent limbs by limiting gravitational stasis, which helps maintain effective circulating volume and prevents during upright postures. Biomechanically, the garments counteract hydrostatic forces within veins by generating an opposing that supports unidirectional flow. The applied pressure PP follows the principle P=FAP = \frac{F}{A}, where FF represents the elastic from the garment's tension and AA the surface area of application; proper fit ensures therapeutic levels, typically highest at distal sites to mimic and oppose natural hydrostatic gradients. Efficacy depends on design factors such as graduated profiles, which decrease proximally and outperform uniform by better simulating physiological flow dynamics. Wear duration influences outcomes, with prolonged wear enhancing benefits compared to intermittent application. Individual physiological factors can also modulate effectiveness by altering distribution and garment conformity. Potential adverse effects arise from improper fit: excessively tight garments can induce pressure sores, ischemia, or through localized over-compression, while loose ones diminish therapeutic pressure, leading to suboptimal venous support.

History and Development

Early Uses

The earliest documented uses of compression-like techniques trace back to ancient civilizations, where bandages and wrappings were applied to support injuries and improve circulation. In , the from around 1600 BCE describes the use of linen bandages to immobilize and compress wounds, including those on the legs, to promote and reduce swelling. Similarly, physicians in and employed leg wrappings to bind and treat injuries, laying foundational practices for compression therapy. By the fourth century BCE, Greek physician advanced these methods, recommending tight bandages for treating leg ulcers to counteract the effects of gravity and enhance venous return, as detailed in the Corpus Hippocraticum. This approach influenced subsequent Roman practices, where soldiers used tight strappings on their legs during long marches to alleviate fatigue and prevent swelling, marking an early non-medical application in contexts. In the , compression evolved with the advent of elastic materials, driven by Charles Goodyear's 1839 discovery of vulcanized rubber, which enabled more durable and stretchable fabrics. Physician John Watson reported in 1839 the successful use of an elastic stocking to manage in a , representing one of the first targeted applications for venous disorders. By the mid-1800s, patents like William Brown's 1848 patent for rubber-threaded and silk stockings facilitated commercial production in , though these early designs provided uniform pressure rather than graduated compression. During , military bandaging saw widespread use of —long strips of cloth wrapped tightly around soldiers' legs from ankle to knee—to provide support, reduce fatigue, and aid wound management in conditions. However, early compression garments and wrappings suffered from significant limitations, including inconsistent pressure distribution due to non-graduated designs, which often led to discomfort, poor fit, and suboptimal therapeutic outcomes without skilled application. Inelastic bandages required precise wrapping techniques, while initial elastic versions were prone to irritation from rubber components.

Modern Advancements

In the mid-20th century, the invention of in 1958 by chemist Joseph C. Shivers at marked a pivotal advancement in compression garment technology, providing superior elasticity and durability compared to earlier rubber-based materials. This synthetic fiber, capable of stretching up to five times its original length while recovering its shape, enabled the creation of more effective, form-fitting garments that maintained consistent pressure without sagging or bunching. By the 1960s, integration facilitated the evolution of medical into more reliable therapeutic tools, improving patient compliance through enhanced comfort and wearability. The late 20th and early 21st centuries saw compression garments expand beyond medical applications into athletics, with notable integration in the 1980s through items like running tights designed to aid recovery and reduce muscle fatigue. This period also witnessed the development of graduated compression stockings in the 1950s by engineer Conrad Jobst, which apply decreasing pressure from the ankle upward to optimize venous return, becoming a standard in clinical practice. In the 2010s, advancements in 3D body scanning revolutionized custom-fitted garments, allowing precise mapping of limb contours for personalized pressure distribution and improved efficacy in treating conditions like lymphedema. These scanning technologies, often combined with parametric modeling, reduced fitting errors and enhanced therapeutic outcomes compared to traditional manual measurements. Recent innovations up to 2025 have focused on smart textiles incorporating embedded sensors for real-time monitoring of , , and compliance, enabling dynamic adjustments and remote clinical oversight in compression . For instance, sensorized fabrics can track interface and physiological responses, alerting users or providers to deviations that might compromise treatment. Sustainability efforts have paralleled these developments, with the adoption of recycled fibers—such as those derived from regenerated —in compression garments to minimize environmental impact while preserving performance characteristics like elasticity and durability. Products like flight socks made from 95% recycled exemplify this shift, offering effective compression without the of virgin materials. Regulatory evolution in the further standardized compression therapy through initiatives like the founding of the International Compression Club (ICC) in 2005, a collaborative body of experts and industry representatives dedicated to evidence-based consensus on garment classification, pressure levels, and clinical applications. The ICC's reports have harmonized international guidelines, promoting uniform testing protocols and to ensure garments meet therapeutic thresholds across regions. This has bolstered the transition of compression technology from niche medical use to widespread, reliable adoption in diverse settings.

Design and Materials

Construction and Pressure Levels

Compression garments are engineered to provide controlled through specialized or techniques that ensure even distribution and anatomical conformity. Key features include seamless and seamed designs, with circular-knitted seamless garments offering high stretchability and for standard limb applications, while flat-knitted seamed versions provide greater and customization for irregular shapes, such as larger extremities or torso regions. Anatomical shaping is achieved by tailoring the garment to specific body contours, often using precise measurements to create graduated compression profiles that conform to limbs or the without creating points at joints like the . Most medical-grade garments feature fixed compression levels set during manufacturing, though adjustable variants, such as those with closures, allow for modifications to accommodate fluctuating limb volumes. Pressure levels in compression garments are classified based on the interface exerted at the ankle, typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), to standardize therapeutic . Low compression ranges from 8-15 mmHg, suitable for preventive use in healthy individuals to promote venous return, while medium compression of 15-20 mmHg addresses mild symptoms like or minor swelling. Higher levels, such as 20-30 mmHg or more, are prescribed for severe conditions requiring substantial support, with very strong options exceeding 40 mmHg for advanced cases. These garments employ a graduated profile, where compression is highest at the distal end—such as 30 mmHg at the ankle—tapering proximally to approximately 20 mmHg at the calf, facilitating directional flow without . While the European RAL-GZ 387 standard classifies compression into four levels (Classes I-IV), ensuring a consistent decreasing from ankle to for optimal functionality, other regions like the use pressure ranges without formal classes (e.g., 15-20 mmHg for mild, 20-30 mmHg for moderate support). The fitting process begins with precise protocols, starting at the ankle at its narrowest point (typically 2 cm above the medial ), followed by assessments at the calf, , and other relevant sites in a decongested state to select the appropriate size and class. Professional fitting by therapists is essential to match the garment's compression class to the individual's needs, avoiding over- or under-compression that could compromise efficacy.
Compression ClassPressure Range (mmHg at Ankle)Typical Application
Class I18-21Mild support
Class II23-32Moderate symptoms
Class III34-46Severe cases
Class IV>49Very severe
Durability of medical-grade compression garments is influenced by material fatigue and usage, with a typical wear lifespan of 3-6 months under daily application, after which elasticity diminishes and delivery can decrease by up to 44% after 8 hours of . Laundering plays a critical role in preserving elasticity; daily hand or gentle machine washing with mild detergents removes contaminants that degrade fibers, while avoiding heat drying or harsh chemicals prevents distortion and maintains compression integrity for the garment's full lifespan.

Common Materials and Variations

Compression garments are primarily constructed from blends of elastomeric fibers, such as (also known as Lycra or elastane), combined with durable synthetics like or to provide both stretch and . These materials form knitted fabrics, including weft-knitted structures like single jersey or , where elastic yarns—such as covered, core-spun, or textured types—are inlaid or plated to achieve controlled compression. Medical-grade garments typically incorporate higher concentrations of elastomeric fibers to deliver therapeutic pressures of 20–50 mmHg, ensuring precise graduated compression, whereas consumer-grade versions provide lower compression pressures (around 7.5–11.5 mmHg) for everyday comfort and support. Latex-free compositions are standard in both categories to minimize allergic reactions, with many featuring seamless constructions for skin compatibility. Variations in garment forms are tailored to specific body areas, enhancing functionality across applications. For the lower limbs, common designs include knee-high and thigh-high , often available in open-toe or closed-toe configurations to accommodate foot sensitivity or needs. Upper limb options consist of arm sleeves, gauntlets, and gloves, which provide targeted compression from to hand. Torso-focused garments, such as bodysuits, vests, or abdominal binders, cover the chest, waist, or full trunk for broader support. Customization enhances user adherence by addressing aesthetic and dermatological needs. Manufacturers offer a wide range of colors—such as , , , or custom shades—and patterns, including prints or stripes, to make garments more appealing and less clinical in appearance. linings, often made from soft, non-irritating or blends, are incorporated for individuals with sensitive , reducing friction and promoting all-day wear. Environmental considerations influence modern material selections, prioritizing performance without compromising . is achieved through moisture-wicking fabrics that facilitate vapor transmission while managing , often rated by standards like those for active textiles. Since 2020, there has been a shift toward bio-based elastomers, derived from renewable plant sources or , as alternatives to traditional petroleum-based , aiming to lower microplastic shedding and carbon footprints in garment production.

Medical Applications

Venous and Circulatory Disorders

Compression garments are widely used in the management of venous and circulatory disorders, including , (CVI), and the prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). For , these garments apply graduated external pressure to support vein walls, reduce venous pooling, and alleviate symptoms such as pain, swelling, and heaviness in the legs. In CVI, a condition characterized by impaired venous return leading to and skin changes, compression therapy helps improve venous return and prevent complications like leg ulcers by counteracting ambulatory venous hypertension. For DVT prevention, particularly in high-risk scenarios such as post-immobilization or during long-haul travel, reduce the risk of clot formation by enhancing blood flow velocity in the deep veins. Lymphedema management represents a primary application of compression garments, especially in secondary resulting from venous disorders or surgical interventions affecting lymphatic drainage. These garments, often custom-fitted, provide sustained compression to reduce limb , control swelling, and maintain skin integrity by promoting lymphatic fluid resorption and preventing . In complex decongestive therapy, compression is integral, with flat-knit garments preferred for their durability and ability to accommodate irregular limb shapes in advanced cases. Consistent use can reduce limb . For severe associated with venous issues, pressures of 20-30 mmHg are typically recommended to balance efficacy and tolerability. Treatment protocols for these conditions generally involve daily wear of compression garments for 6-12 months or longer, depending on symptom severity, often combined with leg elevation and medications like diuretics for control. For post-DVT cases, guidelines recommend 30-40 mmHg worn for at least 2 years to prevent , with adherence monitored through follow-up assessments. In CVI and , protocols suggest starting with 20-30 mmHg for mild symptoms, escalating to higher classes as needed, and integrating measures like exercise to enhance outcomes. The 2025 Society of Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) guidelines strongly recommend compression therapy as first-line for CVI and venous ulcers, emphasizing class II (23-32 mmHg) for most patients and multimodal approaches for adherence. Clinical evidence supports the efficacy of compression therapy, with a 2021 Cochrane review demonstrating that compression bandages or achieve complete in venous leg ulcers more quickly than no compression, with moderate-quality evidence showing a risk ratio of 1.77 (95% CI 1.41 to 2.21) for . Compression therapy results in faster and more complete ulcer compared to no compression. However, compliance remains a challenge, with studies reporting adherence rates as low as 30-50% due to factors like heat discomfort, difficulty donning, and perceived tightness, which can undermine long-term benefits. A 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis found that preventive compression stockings reduce the risk of leg ulcer recurrence up to 12 months in elderly patients with CVI (RR 0.52 for class 2 vs. class 1 stockings). The 2025 SCAI meta-analysis confirmed that graduated compression yields sustained symptom relief in older adults with venous disorders.

Post-Surgical and Injury Support

Compression garments play a vital role in post-surgical recovery by providing external to minimize swelling, prevent accumulation, and support tissue . In procedures such as post-mastectomy surgery for , these garments help reduce the incidence of formation, with one study reporting rates of 2.5% in patients using compression compared to 8% without it. Similarly, following , compression aids in by promoting skin adherence to underlying tissues and reducing excess volume by approximately 20% within two weeks when using standard garments. For bariatric surgery patients undergoing body to remove , compression garments are recommended to stabilize the surgical site and enhance circulation during the initial phase. In orthopedic contexts, compression garments support recovery from injuries like ankle sprains or (ACL) repairs by stabilizing affected joints and limiting excessive motion that could exacerbate damage. For instance, compression sleeves improve blood flow, decrease , and alleviate by reducing activation of pain receptors in the surrounding tissues. These mechanisms collectively work to reduce formation through consistent pressure that counters gravitational fluid pooling and stabilizes healing tissues against mechanical stress. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends wearing compression garments continuously—except during bathing—for one to three weeks post-surgery to optimize outcomes in procedures like and . Duration varies by procedure: 24/7 wear for 2-6 weeks is common for major surgeries such as bariatric contouring or ACL repair, transitioning to daytime use thereafter, while shorter periods of 1-2 weeks suffice for minor orthopedic sprains. Evidence from randomized controlled trials supports these practices, showing significant pain reduction in (mean score 2.0 vs. 2.7 on a visual analog scale, P=0.018) and decreased leg swelling after arthroscopic procedures. However, improper use carries risks, including over-compression that may cause ischemia, , or skin due to excessive impairing circulation. Monitoring protocols emphasize checking for signs like , numbness, or increased , with poor garment fit contributing to complications in 4-44% of cases; patients should follow surgeon adjustments to ensure graduated aligns with recovery needs.

Specialized Garments for Specific Conditions

Compression gloves are specialized garments designed to provide targeted pressure to the hands and fingers, primarily for managing conditions such as hand , , and . These gloves apply graduated compression to reduce swelling, alleviate , and improve hand function by enhancing circulation and minimizing . In patients with or undifferentiated , gloves have been shown to relieve hand and , though on long-term functional improvements remains limited. For hand , such as in puffy hand associated with chronic conditions, elastic compression gloves help decrease puffiness in the hands and fingers when used alongside low-stretch bandaging. In , particularly for Raynaud's phenomenon, silver fiber gloves—a form of compressive —transport heat to the fingers and reduce symptom burden by improving vascular response. Some designs incorporate finger-specific pressure zones to address localized or joint involvement, allowing for customized support while maintaining dexterity. Maternity compression garments, including abdominal binders, offer pelvic and abdominal support during to alleviate and improve stability. These belts may reduce pregnancy-related and enhance functional mobility, with one study of 90 pregnant women demonstrating improved balance and reduced fall risk during late . However, systematic reviews indicate insufficient high-quality evidence to conclusively support their role in broadly reducing , emphasizing the need for individualized use. Postpartum, abdominal binders aid C-section recovery by providing gentle compression to support weakened abdominal muscles, reduce swelling, and potentially decrease , though randomized trials show no significant impact on overall functional recovery or postoperative discomfort. These garments are typically worn for 6-8 weeks after delivery to promote pelvic stability and incision site protection. For ventral , abdominal wraps serve as postoperative compression garments to prevent recurrence by stabilizing the and integrating with surgical meshes. These binders apply consistent pressure to reduce tension on the repair site, decrease surgical site infections, and improve physical condition following open ventral procedures. Clinical evidence from prospective studies supports their use in lowering postoperative and enhancing early mobility, with adherence recommended for 4-6 weeks post-surgery to optimize outcomes. Head and neck compression garments address following radiotherapy for cancer, where up to 91% of patients may develop swelling due to lymphatic disruption. These custom-fitted garments or pads apply light, graduated pressure to soften , reduce fluid accumulation, and maintain volume reduction when combined with . Rapid reviews of compression therapies for cancer-related confirm their efficacy in managing head and neck symptoms, though application can be challenging due to the area's contours, often requiring specialized designs like circumferential wraps or chin straps. Pediatric compression garments are tailored for congenital conditions such as low-flow vascular malformations or primary , providing age-appropriate sizing to manage and prevent complications from infancy. In children with congenital vascular anomalies like Klippel-Trenaunay syndrome, these garments reduce swelling, improve limb appearance, and lessen intravascular coagulation risks. Evidence from case series and reviews indicates good tolerability and adherence in pediatric populations, with dynamic compression options supporting growth while stabilizing affected areas. Emerging applications include for recovery, where garments manage hypertrophic by applying sustained force to improve thickness, color, and pliability. A 2023 systematic review of for found it effective in enhancing overall quality and reducing pain, particularly when initiated early in rehabilitation. A 2024 Cochrane review found low-certainty evidence for garment in preventing hypertrophic post-, with insufficient support for routine recommendation, though optimal protocols remain under investigation.

Athletic and Performance Uses

Applications in Sports

Compression garments are widely utilized in endurance sports including running, , and , where they provide targeted support to key muscle groups. Runners frequently wear full-leg or calf sleeves to cover the lower extremities during marathons and races, while cyclists often choose compression shorts or leg to stabilize and hamstrings amid prolonged pedaling efforts. Swimmers, particularly in competitive and open-water events, incorporate upper-body compression tops or arm sleeves, sometimes layered beneath swimsuits for added and support. Athletes apply these garments across multiple phases of and . In pre-competition warm-ups, they are donned to facilitate muscle and joint stability before events like 10K runs or time trials. During activities, such as stages or swim sets, the garments offer continuous compression to maintain muscle alignment under repetitive strain. Post-exercise, runners and cyclists alike use them immediately after sessions to aid in transitioning to rest or subsequent workouts in multi-day competitions. Adoption of compression garments surged in triathlons during the 2000s, coinciding with the sport's growing professionalization and emphasis on recovery tools across swim-bike-run transitions. In team sports, soccer players commonly wear calf sleeves as undergarments to secure shin guards and support lower legs, in line with FIFA's permissions for non-dangerous protective equipment made of soft, lightweight materials. Practical considerations include selecting appropriate based on limb measurements to balance compression with unrestricted mobility, preventing chafing during dynamic movements. In triathlons, these garments integrate seamlessly under wetsuits for the swim leg, allowing quick transitions without removal. Variations in materials, such as elastane blends, further adapt to sport-specific needs like in running or water resistance in .

Evidence on Benefits and Limitations

Research on the benefits of compression garments for athletic performance and recovery shows mixed results, with stronger evidence for perceptual and recovery-related outcomes than for direct physiological enhancements. A seminal 2013 meta-analysis of 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrated that compression garments provide a moderate reduction in (DOMS) severity (Hedges' g = 0.403, 95% CI 0.236–0.569, p < 0.001), alongside improvements in muscle strength (Hedges' g = 0.462) and power (Hedges' g = 0.487). This aligns with findings of reductions in perceived soreness in subsequent studies, particularly when garments are worn post-exercise for 24–48 hours. Improved proprioception is another purported benefit, supported by evidence that compression enhances joint position sense and sensorimotor feedback during dynamic movements, though a 2024 systematic review of 27 studies found inconsistent results across joint types and tasks. Vibration damping during impact sports, such as running, is more consistently evidenced; a 2025 RCT showed that compression garments significantly attenuate high-frequency soft tissue vibrations, with approximately 15% reduction in vibration magnitude, potentially mitigating muscle oscillation in downhill conditions. Overall evidence from RCTs remains equivocal for performance metrics, with no significant improvements in aerobic capacity during submaximal exercise. A 2024 systematic review of recovery strategies in endurance athletes confirmed positive effects of compression garments on reducing perceived fatigue and DOMS, with moderate evidence for shortened recovery times, but no consistent impact on objective markers like lactate clearance or jump performance. These findings suggest benefits are most pronounced in recovery phases rather than acute performance, with effect sizes often small (SMD < 0.5) and influenced by garment pressure (typically 15–30 mmHg). Limitations temper these benefits, particularly the role of placebo effects in subjective outcomes like reduced soreness, as blinded trials reveal smaller physiological changes than athlete perceptions. Compression also elevates localized skin temperature by 1–2°C, which may impair thermoregulation and increase perceived exertion in hot environments (>30°C), potentially negating advantages during prolonged activity. Cost-effectiveness is another concern; high-quality garments (>$50 per pair) yield marginal gains for recreational athletes, with meta-analyses indicating insufficient ROI for non-elite use given the lack of broad performance boosts. As of 2025, research is exploring the integration of compression garments with wearable technologies, such as sensorized fabrics for real-time monitoring in endurance sports.

Other Applications

Fashion and Shapewear

In the realm of fashion, compression garments serve primarily as shapewear, designed to contour and smooth the body's for aesthetic enhancement rather than therapeutic purposes. These include items such as bodysuits, corsets, and high-waisted undergarments that provide subtle support to areas like the , thighs, and hips, promoting a streamlined appearance under clothing. A prominent example is , founded in 2000 by entrepreneur , which popularized footless and bodysuits that revolutionized everyday undergarments by offering seamless, comfortable alternatives to traditional . Brands like have influenced the market by emphasizing discreet integration into modern wardrobes, such as shaping panels embedded in jeans or dresses for all-day wear. The cultural history of shapewear traces back to the , when rigid corsets or "stays" made of whalebone and fabric were used to cinch the waist and support posture, reflecting societal ideals of femininity in European . Over centuries, these evolved through the 19th-century girdles and 20th-century elastic undergarments into more flexible forms, adapting to changing beauty standards from figures to slimmer profiles. In the post-2010 era, the body positivity movement has driven a shift toward inclusive in shapewear, with brands expanding offerings to accommodate diverse body types beyond traditional sizes, promoting alongside contouring. The shapewear industry has grown substantially, valued at USD 2.73 billion globally as of 2024, fueled by accessibility and endorsements that normalize its use in casual attire. This expansion includes innovations like moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort during extended wear, blending seamlessly with and professional outfits. While fashion-oriented shapewear employs mild compression levels of 10-15 mmHg to achieve slimming effects without intent, users should be aware of potential considerations, including risks to from over-reliance, which may foster psychological dependency and dissatisfaction with one's natural form. Prolonged use can also lead to minor issues like skin irritation if not fitted properly, underscoring the importance of moderation.

Occupational and Protective Uses

Compression garments play a vital role in occupational settings where workers face prolonged standing, physical exertion, or high-risk environments, helping to mitigate , swelling, and risks. In healthcare professions such as , where shifts often involve 12 hours or more of standing, with 15–20 mmHg or 20–30 mmHg pressure levels prevent significant lower-leg , formation, and discomfort compared to regular socks. Similarly, retail and service workers enduring extended periods on their feet benefit from these garments, which improve circulation and reduce leg and swelling during long shifts. For firefighters engaged in demanding physical tasks, compression arm sleeves provide graduated pressure to minimize muscle oscillation, soreness, and recovery time, supporting performance in heat-stressed conditions. In protective applications, compression garments enhance safety in specialized high-acceleration or scenarios. Aviation pilots wear anti-G suits, such as the CSU-13B/P model, which inflate to apply dynamic compression to the lower body, counteracting positive G-forces by restricting blood flow to the legs and abdomen, thereby preventing blackout and maintaining consciousness during maneuvers up to 9G. In contexts, lower-body compression garments worn during reduce subjective muscle soreness and , with studies on elite Marine trainees showing moderate improvements in perceived recovery over 72 hours post-exercise when used for 48–72 hours. Over a 6-week course, trainees using compression nightly reported small to moderate reductions in soreness, alongside minor performance gains in endurance tasks like running, without adverse effects. Evidence from occupational health studies supports the efficacy of compression garments in reducing leg associated with prolonged standing or sitting in manual labor and professional roles. Calf-length providing 11–21 mmHg of can reduce evening leg volume increases by up to 100% (from 62–94 mL in controls to near-zero or negative changes), effectively preventing or eliminating occupational swelling in workers. Broader guidelines under OSHA's standards (29 CFR 1910.132) emphasize employer-provided gear to address workplace hazards like musculoskeletal strain, aligning with recommendations for compression in roles involving orthostatism, though specific mandates focus on hazard assessments rather than garment types. Progressive compression designs may offer even greater reduction than standard graduated types, benefiting at-risk professionals. Emerging applications in post-2020 ergonomic workspaces, driven by the rise in (VR) and remote desk-bound roles, incorporate compression aids to combat sedentary fatigue. Compression sleeves and reduce perceived upper- and lower-limb muscle soreness and swelling in prolonged sitting scenarios, improving recovery without impacting serum markers like lactate. These tools support VR-integrated environments by enhancing circulation during extended static postures, addressing observed increases in musculoskeletal complaints from hybrid work setups.

References

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