Compression Clothing: Good or Bad?
By Tom Herrin
As society develops in whatever areas it grows, there are special items made just for each particular niche. Everyone sees ads that tout the unique advantages of each thing that is custom made for every kind of activity possible. Kids are especially taken by these sales gimmicks as they often use some well-known personality to make the point that wearing that special thing must be what helps make them who they are. In the old days, it was beer or cigarettes. Today it is more like athletic shoes or some other piece of daily clothing. One of those that has gotten lots of attention in recent years is compression clothing.
Stockings May Serve a Good Purpose
Many people have been instructed to wear compression stockings for years. Those who were recovering from certain injuries or surgeries could avoid some risks by wearing them. The design could help prevent blood from pooling in extremities and becoming serious problems. The pressure applied to those body parts could help to move the blood effectively so that the blood would continue in circulation. Some people wear them for what they feel is greater comfort during a workout, particularly running.
The Shirts Are a Maybe
While shirts may not be used as widespread as some other compression clothes, many people prefer to wear them. Some believe that they may help to keep down inflammation and help in recovering after a workout. For those who are a little trimmer, they can emphasize that Superman look. For those who may be feeling they would like to lose a little more cover in the upper body, it may be better for their self-esteem to avoid wearing them. It is probably more of a personal preference than one based on health.
Compression Shorts or Pants, Depends on Need
For sure, compression garments for the lower body may serve a purpose. They do hold the body in place a little better. This helps to avoid some uncomfortable moving around while exercising. Many people like them for riding bicycles. I have used them on occasion, and they may save some fatigue. The most effective use I found for them is not the intended use at all. Back in the early summer, I spent three days on horseback at a primitive youth camp. Forty years ago, I rode horses on a regular basis in competitions. I remembered how much soreness I got if I did not ride for a while. In my fear of that discomfort, I decided to wear compression shorts under my jeans. It worked well as I spent about 10 hours a day on horseback without any saddle-soreness or chafing. Be your own judge, but you may find some good uses for compression clothing. Just don’t expect too much of a miracle, but they can be a good accessory.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brentwood, Calif.