Compression Sock For Running: Why Use It?

Created to help with diseases such as varicose veins, diabetes, edema and other venal problems, for some time now, compression stockings are no longer used only as a medical accessory and have become part of the runner's life.

This happened because its use promises to improve blood circulation and helps to recover muscle faster.

Running compression socks are usually high, reaching up to the knee, providing a progressive compression that promotes increased blood circulation and muscle strength, reducing the chances of fatigue.

Its indication is especially for athletes who do long training and heavy events, but it is very important to remember not to use them constantly, as this can reduce the muscle's ability to adapt to impacts, making them lazy.

The short answer to this commonly asked question regarding the effectiveness of plantar fasciitis sock is that we do not know. Whilst there seems to be some personal testimony on the World Wide Web from people who say that running compression socks healed their condition but there is no documented peer-reviewed clinical evidence to show that this is scientifically true.

It is important to emphasize that there are no concrete studies that prove the benefits of running with compression socks, but users of the accessory insist that there is an improvement in blood circulation, as it reduces the concentration of lactate and controls the muscle oscillation generated by the impact with the floor.

Wearing socks, for example, for 48 hours after running a marathon, can improve runners' performance , speeding up their recovery, according to a study by the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research , conducted in 2015.

What is the compression sock for on the run

About the effects and benefits of compression stockings for runners, its effectiveness is proven only when used for recovery, as we have already mentioned, as it increases blood circulation, reducing muscle pain and fatigue , swelling, injuries and inflammation.

What is suggested, since there is no scientific proof of its use during running, is that there is a “placebo effect”. That is, even without proof of positive effects, the simple fact of using them makes the athlete believe that he is doing better in competition.

Choose the best compression sock

In sporting goods stores and also in pharmacies you can find several models, which vary in pressure, fabric type, antibacterial properties, breathability and cushioning.

The sock needs to have progressive compression, that is, be tighter around the ankles and loosen it until it gets wider at the knee, as this helps to prevent the development of blisters.

To choose the best compression sock, take into account the size of your foot and calf, as it is necessary to feel the leg supported and not crushed, that is: tight, but without causing great discomfort.

When and How to Wear Compression Socks for Running

Currently, use is indicated between 24 and 48 hours after competitions, championships or intense training. If you're traveling to the next race, the sock will also help with circulation during a long flight or many hours in a bus or car.

Despite having numerous benefits that improve the athlete's performance, the constant use of socks can generate loss of the adaptive and oscillatory function of the muscle, which can increase the risk of injury in cases of future physical activities without the use of compression stockings.

The ideal is to use them on colder days, as they heat up more than common socks, and also alternate use, to end up not leaving the muscle unused, making it more fragile.

And a tip for dressing time : fold the top over the bottom and put only your foot on, then unroll the top toward your knee.

As it is made of a resistant elastic material, wearing it can be a challenge, but for an athlete who participates in endurance competitions, this task will be a piece of cake.