How Compression Socks Affect Athletes

Compression socks have become increasingly popular among athletes in recent years and for good reason. The specially designed socks can benefit athletes during and after workouts or competitions. Athletes can also expect better performance, fatigue and soreness reduction, and improved blood circulation.

Continue reading to learn how compression socks affect athletes.

Performance

Most athletes constantly work out and push themselves to their limits to achieve peak performance but are not excluded from complications. For example, runners can experience blisters or leg swelling. Comrad, a compression sock commerce and blog website, indicates “compression socks have been anecdotally reported to have reduced blisters and shin splints.” As a result, athletes can anticipate a lower risk of body complications when performing with compression socks. 

In addition, compression socks used by athletes can also prevent delayed soreness, resulting in improved healing and scheduling. A compression sock study in the National Library of Medicine emphasizes that “compression socks help alleviate delayed-onset muscle soreness.” Ultimately, they can prevent other injuries and soreness, adding more time for healing and workout routines. Besides improved abilities, the garment can produce additional other health benefits.

The Health Benefits

Compression socks can also provide extra relief during injury or alleviate other leg and foot aches. The garments reduce swelling and inflammation during an injury, surgery, or general use, according to Comrad. Again, the garment is practical for healing the leg and foot of an athlete while contributing to better blood circulation. 

Athletes need excessive blood flow during workouts or competitions, and compression socks can be a convenient solution. Swolverine, a workout performance supplement website, suggests that “compression socks can eliminate stagnant blood, varicose veins, and blood clots from forming.” Aside from healing, compression socks can be a favorable prevention for existing or potential blood health issues for athletes. Athletes can also consider other compression gear for their bodies.

Other Types of Compression Gear

Compression socks primarily target the feet and ankles, so other types of compression gear target other specific body areas. The gear similarly produces the same health and performance benefits, but compression sleeves and tights reduce soreness, according to Comrad. 

However, compression shirts and unitards are not confirmed to achieve the same health benefits based on very few studies regarding the gear. Moreover, athletes should consider the differing materials and compression levels when researching compression gear and socks. The right level and material can go a long way for performance, healing, and career longevity.

Advantages for Athletes

Ultimately, compression socks can be a valuable tool for recovery. After a workout or competition, compression socks can help athletes achieve their full potential while reducing soreness and gaining faster recoveries. Compression socks can be a valuable addition to any athlete’s gear. 

For more articles about compression socks and other health topics, visit Magic Feet.