Gabe Mirkin, M.D.
Elastic compression stockings have no effect whatever
on exercise, according to a recent study from France (European
Journal of Applied Physiology, July 2006). They neither increase
nor decrease endurance, strength, speed, recovery, or blood flow
to the limbs. The study did not test the increased warmth
generated by compressive stockings, but many people with
arthritis have difficulty exercising in the cold and feel better from
the warmth generated by a snug wrapping. In hot weather, the
support hose can act as a barrier to prevent heat loss, which may
make you tire earlier.
Many people develop swollen feet and ankles when they
stand or sit, which goes away when they lie down. People with
this gravity-dependant swelling of their feet and legs often find
that support stockings help to prevent fluid from collecting in their
legs. While you exercise, the force of your contracting muscles
keeps blood from pooling. When your leg muscles relax, the
veins near them fill up with blood. When your leg muscles
contract, they squeeze the veins near them and pump blood up
toward your heart. The pumping action of your leg muscles
exerts a strong force to empty your veins, so you will not need
support hose during exercise. So you may benefit from wearing
support hose when you stand around, but it is unlikely that you
will need them when you exercise.
January 15, 2007