Choosing the Right Compression Garment
Posted by Shannon on May 10th 2022
MAY 16, 2022
Choosing the Right Compression Garment
Compression garments are not all the same. What works for the pregnant woman experiencing swelling would not necessarily work for the athlete wanting to increase endurance. Find out more about the right garment for you.
Compression garments are articles designed specifically for their ability to provide a tight and secure fit around the specific body part that they are intended to cover. Whether they are being used for athletic training, to decrease pregnancy swelling, or to make a child with Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) more comfortable, there is a brand and style for every activity. Compression garments are so diverse in their capabilities that they can be utilized by different people for a variety of specific purposes.
Types of Compression Garments + Common Uses
There are numerous types and designs of compression garments. These articles of clothing are created to securely fit both the upper and lower body. Garments commonly created to fit the upper body are compression shirts and arm sleeves. Depending on a user's aesthetic taste or specific health or athletic needs, compression shirts are often available with and without sleeves. Garments designed for the lower body include compression socks, shorts, pants, tights and leg sleeves.
Compression garments can be worn by anyone. However, these products are typically donned by athletes aiming to maximize a workout regimen or heighten their performance in a given sport or for therapeutic purposes in people afflicted with specific illnesses. They also are popular amongst pregnant women, who wear them to reduce swelling and encourage continued circulation throughout their body.
Benefits of Wearing Compression Garments
Compression garments are believed to provide several benefits to the individuals who wear them including:
- Increased blood flow to impacted body regions by holding muscles in place. Constriction of the affected muscle is thought to potentially increase blood flow to the area in question and surrounding tissues. Such an occurrence is believed to help athletes maintain or gain an increased level of strength when performing physical endeavors.
- Reduced muscle fatigue caused by constriction and increased blood supply. It is believed that constricted body regions are less likely to suffer fatigue and will therefore be less susceptible to sustaining injuries such as strains and be more equipped to recover from incidents of soreness.
- Improved oxygen flow and circulation to affected muscles as a result of increased blood flow.
- Maintaining warmth and body temperature, even in the presence of perspiration and when engaging in exercise in cold, windy or rainy conditions.
- A tight fit that provides comfort and prevents clothing slippages, which can interfere with an athlete working out or in competition and, in severe cases, might cause freak accidents.
Medical Uses
Constrictive garments have been proven effective in helping individuals stricken with several health issues. However, the clothing articles are believed to be particularly beneficial when worn by people diagnosed with cardiovascular or blood circulation problems such as varicose veins, diabetes, coronary or peripheral artery disease and in the more rapid healing of ulcers caused by circulation issues.
Although there aren’t any restrictions regarding whom can or should wear compression garments, such clothing articles are typically most beneficial to athletes and individuals diagnosed with health problems related to decreased or poor blood circulation. Research conducted has shown that these garments may provide numerous health benefits to those who use them.
SOURCES:
https://share.upmc.com/2016/01/benefits-of-compression-gear
https://www.physioroom.com/info/the-benefits-of-compression-clothing
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Compression products should not be worn and are contraindicated if you have any of the following conditions: Severe arterial insufficiency, cutaneous infections, acute dermatitis, wet dermatosis, uncontrolled congestive heart failure, skin irritations, allergies to dyes.
This is only general information and is not meant for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Always consult your physician or other health care provider about all health concerns, conditions, and recommended treatments.