Compression Sleeves

Nysportsred

I am new to this so any advice would be appreciated.

I do a lot of running, stair climber, and treadmill. My calves were feeling a little sore so a friend of mine suggested compression sleeves for the legs. He uses them and said they have helped him when training for marathons. He had an extra pair so he gave them to me. I have done two workouts with them and while the legs feel much better during the workout, afterwards and the next day they feel tight and fatigued despite a decent amount of stretching each day. Does it sound like they are too tight or are they simply not worth it? He said they are supposed to feel snug, which I imagine they would, but I wanted to see here if anyone uses them and can give me some insight.

Inspirationalwaterjug

I’ve used them before post injury. They’re tight and the strain is still there in your calf’s. I’d check with a PT to see if you have any issues. But chances are you’ve got some super tight muscles and could use more than just stretching most run.

BrianSharpe

The science behind compression sleeves and socks etc is simply inconclusive unless you're trying to avoid deep vein thrombosis on a long flight. Personally, and this is purely anecdotal, I like to use compression tights on long runs in the late stages of a training plan, I feel a little less beat up and find I recover more quickly.

Have you considered that you might really want to focus on strengthening you calves? Mine complain bitterly when I've been slackening off on my strength (I usually like to incorporate a couple of sets of calf raises as an accessory lift along with Stronglifts 5x5)

dewd2

Ice after you run. Stretch less (you're probably doing more damage). Strengthen your calves. Take it easy (make sure you have plenty of rest days for your body to grow and heal). Also, check your shoes. Are they worn? Are they even the correct shoe for your gait?

No real opinion on compression other than the science is just not there. I have them and sometimes use them but its more of a mental/placebo thing for me.

moonangel12

When I first am getting back into running after a break (when i first started back last year and then again after 3 month surgery recovery) it is brutal on my calves. Compression sleeves make a difference for me. It’s like a tight hug for my legs, almost like they are holding it all together when the muscle wants to go hog wild. I also noticed a decrease in shin splint tendencies. For a while I HAD to wear them, but once I was in better shape and my muscles were stronger I was able to do without. I still wear them for races, but not for my neighborhood runs.