Compression garments are specialized, form-fitting apparel engineered to apply calculated pressure to a specific part of the body, such as the limbs or torso. These elastic garments fit tightly against the skin, delivering a controlled squeeze that supports underlying tissues. The primary purpose is to support the body’s circulatory functions and manage fluid balance. This external pressure improves the efficiency of blood flow and reduces localized swelling or fluid buildup.
How Compression Garments Work
Compression garments augment the body’s natural systems for moving fluids against gravity. By exerting external pressure on the limbs, the garments narrow the diameter of superficial veins, increasing the velocity of blood flow. This improved flow helps deoxygenated blood return to the heart more efficiently, a process known as enhanced venous return.
The consistent pressure also plays a significant role in managing fluid retention (edema) by limiting the amount of fluid that escapes from capillaries into surrounding tissues. For individuals with a compromised lymphatic system, this external force assists in pushing lymphatic fluid away from the affected area. By reducing the space available for fluid to collect, the garments directly counter swelling, which can cause discomfort and slow recovery.
A third physiological effect is the stabilization of muscles during physical activity. When a person runs or jumps, their muscles naturally vibrate or oscillate, which can contribute to microtrauma and fatigue. The tight fit minimizes this oscillation, holding the muscle in a more stable position. This reduction in movement is thought to decrease muscle damage and improve the perception of fatigue after exercise.
Key Differences in Pressure Levels
The pressure applied by these garments is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), the same unit used for blood pressure. Higher mmHg values indicate a greater degree of compression and a tighter fit. The design of most effective garments incorporates graduated compression, meaning the pressure is highest at the extremity—like the ankle or wrist—and gradually lessens further up the limb.
This pressure gradient is intentional, as it helps encourage blood and lymph fluid to flow upward toward the core of the body, working against the pull of gravity. Garments fall into general categories based on their pressure rating, with over-the-counter options offering mild compression of 8-15 mmHg or 15-20 mmHg. These lower levels are suitable for general fatigue relief and long-distance travel.
In contrast, medical-grade compression generally begins at 20-30 mmHg and can extend to 30-40 mmHg or higher. These higher pressure levels are often prescribed to manage more serious circulatory conditions. The specific pressure level needed is tailored to the individual’s condition and determined by a professional to ensure the garment is both safe and therapeutically effective.
Common Applications of Compression
Compression garments are widely utilized across two main areas: therapeutic medical applications and athletic performance enhancement. In clinical settings, the garments manage conditions that affect circulation and fluid balance.
They are routinely used to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots form, especially in the legs, by maintaining consistent blood flow.
For individuals dealing with chronic venous insufficiency or lymphedema, compression clothing assists in moving fluid that would otherwise pool in the limbs. Post-surgical patients often wear these garments to control swelling, reduce the risk of complications, and support the healing process. The external support helps maintain the volume reduction achieved through other therapies.
In the athletic context, applications focus on two phases: during activity and post-exercise recovery. Athletes wear compression to stabilize muscles, which may help decrease fatigue during prolonged exercise and enhance performance by improving joint awareness. Following intense activity, the primary goal shifts to recovery. The garments enhance the removal of metabolic waste products, such as lactate, and reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with muscle soreness. This faster clearance of waste contributes to a quicker return to baseline strength and power.