A compression sleeve is a tight-fitting, elastic garment designed to be worn on a limb, such as the arm, calf, or thigh. Its primary function is to apply controlled, external pressure to the underlying tissue. Sleeves are available in varying pressure levels and are commonly used in clinical settings for managing circulatory conditions and by athletes seeking to enhance performance or recovery.
The Science Behind Compression
Compression sleeves utilize graduated compression, applying pressure that is highest at the extremity (e.g., ankle or wrist) and gradually decreases toward the heart. This external force gently squeezes the veins, reducing their diameter and increasing the velocity of blood flow. This mechanism enhances venous return, assisting circulation in moving deoxygenated blood back toward the torso against gravity.
The pressure also limits fluid pooling outside the circulatory system in the interstitial spaces, known as edema or swelling. By limiting this buildup, the sleeve reduces feelings of heaviness or tightness in the limb. During activity, the garment provides mechanical support that reduces muscle oscillation (vibration). Reducing oscillation minimizes micro-trauma and post-exercise soreness.
Medical and Therapeutic Applications
Medical compression manages conditions related to poor circulation and fluid retention. A primary use is preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), where a blood clot forms, typically in the legs. The graduated pressure increases blood flow velocity and reduces venous stasis (blood pooling), lowering the risk of clot formation.
Sleeves are also a standard treatment for chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), where damaged leg vein valves fail to efficiently return blood to the heart. By narrowing the veins, external pressure helps damaged valves close more effectively, preventing backward blood flow and reducing venous hypertension. For patients managing lymphedema (chronic swelling caused by lymphatic fluid buildup), compression garments support decongestive therapies. The controlled pressure assists in moving stagnant lymphatic fluid away from the affected limb.
Use in Athletic Performance and Recovery
In sports, compression sleeves are utilized both during and after physical activity. During exercise, external pressure stabilizes the muscle belly, reducing excessive vibration and movement. This mechanical stabilization may reduce micro-damage during high-impact or repetitive movements, potentially leading to less delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS).
Enhanced circulation supports recovery by speeding up the removal of metabolic waste products, such as lactic acid. While physiological benefits on performance are sometimes debated, many athletes report reduced perception of fatigue and muscle soreness. The light pressure also contributes to better proprioception (the body’s awareness of its position in space), offering increased stability during demanding movements.
Selecting the Right Sleeve and Usage Guidance
Compression pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg); the appropriate level depends on the intended use. Sleeves for athletic performance or general daily wear typically fall into the mild range of 8–20 mmHg. Medical-grade compression starts at 20–30 mmHg, prescribed for conditions like moderate varicose veins or post-surgical swelling. Higher pressures (30–40 mmHg or greater) are reserved for severe conditions like lymphedema or advanced CVI and usually require a doctor’s prescription.
Proper sizing is paramount; a loose sleeve provides no benefit, while a tight one restricts blood flow. Measurements should be taken early in the day before swelling occurs to ensure an accurate fit. Consult a healthcare provider before using compression if you have severe peripheral arterial disease (PAD), as external pressure can worsen oxygen supply issues. Other contraindications include severe, uncontrolled heart failure or acute skin infections in the affected area.