To narrow down our list, we looked at adjustability and whether the ankle brace was machine washable. We also considered how easy it was to put on and take off, as many users have difficulty reaching their feet. Finally, we looked at the price point to decide which ankle braces provided the best value. Based on these factors, we compiled a list of the best ankle braces on the market. Raetz J, Wilson M, Collins K. Varicose veins: diagnosis and treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2019;99(11):682-688. Ideally, you should be measured to determine the right sleeve length or cuff circumference for you. The leg compression devices we reviewed come with one-size-fits-all sleeves, and some come with extenders to widen and/or elongate the sleeves. If you’re shorter or taller than the average person, you might want to look for a device sized for you specifically. Some manufacturers offer small, medium or large fits. Garment Adjustability

Kerhervé HA, Samozino P, Descombe F, et al. Calf compression sleeves change biomechanics but not performance and physiological responses in trail running. Front Physiol. 2017;8:247. doi:10.3389/fphys.2017.00247 Soaking your feet in warm water can relax sore muscles and alleviate foot pain. Some people claim that adding a little Epsom salt to the water can further soothe the discomfort of fatigued and overworked feet. Pérez-Soriano P, García-Roig Á, Sanchis-Sanchis R, Aparicio I. Influence of compression sportswear on recovery and performance: A systematic review. Journal of Industrial Textiles. 2018;48(9):1505-1524. doi:10.1177/1528083718764912 Many compression sleeve brands offer size charts you can use to determine which sleeve size is right for you. Simply measure the circumference of the largest part of your calf, and compare it to the size chart. Calf compression sleeves may improve performance during exercise and promote post-exercise recovery by increasing the elimination of waste metabolites from muscle tissue . Compression sleeves can reduce pain, inflammation, soreness, and fatigue related to exercise by increasing blood flow.

Benefits of Wearing Foot Compression Sleeves

Dr. Parisien urges people to seek guidance from a professional to ensure that they're getting proper treatment. "Both an ankle brace and formal physical therapy can help provide physical stability and mental confidence in the ankle, both of which are critical." AFO vs ASO Designs Most compression sleeves are tight and stretchy, but some deliver more compression than others. To determine how tight and compressive a sleeve will feel, look for millimeters of mercury (mmHg) measurement. The higher the number, the greater the compression. For context, most sleeves will deliver between 20 to 30 millimeters of mercury of compression, but some will deliver less and others more. It’s also worth noting that most of this compression will be “graduated.” This means there will be more compression at the bottom of the sleeve and less at the top of the sleeve. Or, to frame it in other terms, the sleeve will feel tighter at your ankle than it does at the top of your calf. Ankle-Foot-Orthosis (AFO): These are larger, more rigid braces that, according to Dr. Parisien, "may be used to improve walking patterns by reducing, preventing, or limiting movement of the lower leg and foot and by supporting profoundly weak muscles."

https://www.vivehealth.com/collections/sequential-compression/products/compression-foot-and-calf-massager?aff=10 Wearing uncomfortable shoes is the leading cause of foot pain. As such, avoid shoes that are too loose or overly narrow. Wearing shoes with excess wear and tear can also contribute to foot problems, so remember to update your footwear on a regular basis.

Compression Foot Sleeves by SB Sox

You'll also want to look for an ankle brace that provides stability and keeps your foot in place during activities. "An ankle brace should provide enough support to decrease symptoms while increasing ankle instability," says Robert L. Parisien, MD, orthopedic sports medicine surgeon at Mount Sinai and team physician for US Ski & Snowboard and USA Fencing. "However, it must be noted that following a traumatic ankle sprain, all patients should undergo formal focused physical therapy to work on stretching, strengthening, as well as neuromuscular and proprioceptive training." During exercise—especially more strenuous activities, like running, heavy lifting, and HIIT classes—your muscles are put through the wringer,” says Natasha Trentacosta, MD, sports medicine specialist and orthopedic surgeon at Cedars-Sinai Kerlan-Jobe Institute in Los Angeles. As your muscle tissues break down and as water and lactic acid build up, your muscles can become sore and swollen. Dr. Trentacosta notes that compression sleeves may help counteract this. Robert L. Parisien, MD, orthopedic sports medicine surgeon at Mount Sinai in New York City and team physician for US Ski & Snowboard and USA Fencing Depending on the device, there may be one or multiple air chambers and precise, customizable compression that occurs at a fixed pressure and interval. The device may cover the entire leg or just the lower part of the leg. How Do You Use a Leg Compression Machine? Dermont T, Morizot L, Bouhaddi M, Ménétrier A. Changes in tissue oxygen saturation in response to different calf compression sleeves. J Sports Med (Hindawi Publ Corp). 2015;2015:857904. doi:10.1155/2015/857904

According to Dr. Parisien, it's important to consider your activity level when choosing an ankle brace. "The degree of injury, acuity of injury, and activity level all play an important role in the type of ankle brace that may be utilized," he says. Your activity level and recovery needs should dictate whether you opt for an ankle-foot-orthosis or an ankle-stabilizing-orthosis. Have venous insufficiency with ulcers. (When blood pools in the lower leg due to conditions like CVI and varicose veins, pressure from built-up blood can cause skin ulcers to form.) The right compression intensity for you depends on your doctor’s recommendation and the condition for which you’re using the leg compression device. Opting for a device that offers varied intensity levels can make it easier to find a level that feels comfortable and works for your condition. Garment LengthMany calf compression sleeves are made from a blend of nylon and spandex, but some are crafted from other materials, like cotton, neoprene, or bamboo. Nylon will feel sturdy and stretchy, spandex will feel stretchy, cotton will feel soft and breathable, neoprene will feel smooth and breathable, and bamboo will feel soft. Ankle-Stabilizing-Orthosis (ASO): These braces provide low-profile support and stability for both chronic and acute ankle instability. There are plenty of foot massager options on the market, from massage rollers and spiky massage balls to electric foot massagers. Alternatively, you can even roll your feet over a golf ball or a tennis ball. Massaging your feet is a great pain relief option that also increases blood circulation.

Have lymphedema, a condition in which lymphatic fluid builds up in the soft tissue of the body, causing swelling. Delivering 12.6 to 21 millimeters of mercury of graduated compression, it's milder than some options, which makes it a good sleeve to start with if you've never worn one before. What to Look for in Calf Compression Sleeves Quantity

The 10 Best Foot Compression Sleeves

As a long distance runner, I’ve unfortunately suffered a few injuries in my career. Whenever I feel the strain or twinge of an oncoming injury, I immediately start using a compression sleeve to alleviate swelling. This list includes a variety of products that I have personally used and swear by, as well as the favorites from my trail running community. Considering materials used, sizing, and stretchiness, you'll find the best ankle sleeves available for runners today below.