Compression Clothing & Gear

Sports Science Basic for Runners

By Dr. David Cosman in Hong Kong

Runners and Compression Gear

I approve of compression gear for runners, but what you choose to wear is your individual choice. Compression gear worked hundreds of years ago for the Arrow Messengers, and it works for those who use it today.

Supports, sleeves and light compression accessories can stabilize joints without reducing normal required ranges of motion. Even when the pain is absent and the injury is not apparent, wearing a sleeve can remind the athlete that he does have an problem in there; this reminder might prevent you from making a tricky and risky movement like a “bob and weave” or a twist or a jump that could exacerbate the injury.

Compression accessories provide warmth for muscle and fascia, and increases proprioception that allows for the brain to know where your body parts are in space. This improves nerve, muscle, and joint coordination.

Many athletes don’t want to wear prescribed sleeves or accessories in warm weather. To that, I say “a warm caress is better than a chronic injury”.