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Purpose:To determine the effect of wearing compression socks between repeated running bouts on perceptual, physiological, and performance-based parameters.Methods:Twelve well-trained male runners (mean ± SD 5-km time 19:24 ± 1:19 [min:s]) recorded their perceptions of the efficacy of compression socks for recovery before completion of 2 experimental sessions. Each session consisted of two 5-km running time trials (TT1 and TT2) on a treadmill, with a 1-h recovery period between. In a randomized crossover design, 1 session required participants to wear compression socks during the recovery period, and no compression socks were worn between TTs in the other session (control).Results:Running performance between TT1 and TT2 for runners wearing compression socks was similar between TTs (mean Δ 5.3 ± 20.7 s, d = 0.07, P = .20), whereas for control runners, performance significantly decreased in the second TT (mean Δ 15.9 ± 13.3 s, d = 0.19, P < .01). When grouped by perception of efficacy for compression socks, participants with strong beliefs (n = 7) experienced improved subsequent running performance with compression socks (mean Δ –3.6 ± 19.2 s, d = 0.05, P = .32) compared with those with neutral or negative perceptions (n = 5; mean Δ 17.9 ± 17.0 s, d = 0.19, P = .04). Cross-sectional area of the calf and muscle soreness were significantly reduced during the recovery period with the use of compression socks (P < .01), whereas ratings of fatigue showed no difference between conditions.Conclusions:Wearing compression socks between repeated running bouts can aid recovery and subsequent performance. Furthermore, subsequent exercise performance may be even further enhanced when athletes believe in the efficacy of compression socks to assist in recovery between exercise bouts.

Athletes use compression garments (CGs) to improve sport performance, accelerate rehabilitation from knee injuries or to enhance joint position sense (JPS). The position of CGs around the knee may affect knee JPS but the data is inconsistent. The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of CG position on healthy adults' knee joint position sense acuity. In a counterbalanced, single-blinded study, 16 healthy young adults (8 female, age: 25.5 y) performed an active knee joint position-matching task with and without (CON) a below-knee (BK), above-knee (AK), or whole-knee (WK) CG in a randomized order on the dominant (CompDom) or the non-dominant leg (CompNon-Dom). We also determined the magnitude of tissue compression by measuring anatomical thigh and calf cross sectional area (CSA) in standing using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Subjects had less absolute repositioning error (magnitude of error) in BK compared with CON condition. On the other hand, the analysis of the direction of error (constant error) revealed that in each condition subjects tended to underestimate the target position (AK, BK and CON: 75%; WK: 94%). In WK condition there was a significantly larger negative error (-2.7 +/- 3.4) as compared with CON (-1.6 +/- 3.7) condition. There also was less variable error, in WK compared to BK and CON conditions, indicating less variability in their position sense using a WK CG, regardless of the underestimation. CG reduced thigh CSA by 4.5 cm(2) or 3% and calf CSA by Delta 1.3 cm(2) or 1%. The position of CG relative to the knee modifies knee JPS. The findings helps us better understand how the application of a WK CG may support athletic activities.

Compression is a haptic stimulus used in medical interventions (e.g., compression stockings) and has the potential to be integrated into new research areas (e.g., immersive VR experiences, distributed notification mechanisms), yet remains largely understudied. This work investigates the user experience of compression garment technologies that are dynamic, remotely controllable, and low mass, to better address this research gap. Shape memory alloy-based compression garments, capable of creating spatially- and temporally- dynamic on-body compression, were designed and deployed in a user study (n=17, 8M/9F) to understand the effects of compression, and to draw insights for future compression-based applications. The major takeaways are: (1) importance of and sizing/fit, (2) individual/gender preferences and need for customizability, and (3) the relationship between context-specific stimulation and perception.

Purpose: Compression garments are widely used as a tool to accelerate recovery from intense exercise and have also gained traction as a performance aid, particularly during periods of limited recovery. This study tested the hypothesis that increased pressure levels applied via high-pressure compression garments would enhance “multiday” exercise performance. Methods: A single-blind crossover design, incorporating 3 experimental conditions—loose-fitting gym attire (CON), low-compression (LC), and high-compression (HC) garments—was adopted. A total of 10 trained male cyclists reported to the laboratory on 6 occasions, collated into 3 blocks of 2 consecutive visits. Each “block” consisted of 3 parts, an initial high-intensity protocol, a 24-hour period of controlled rest while wearing the applied condition/garment (CON, LC, and HC), and a subsequent 8-km cycling time trial, while wearing the respective garment. Subjective discomfort questionnaires and blood pressure were assessed prior to each exercise bout. Power output, oxygen consumption, and heart rate were continuously measured throughout exercise, with plasma lactate, creatine kinase, and myoglobin concentrations assessed at baseline and the end of exercise, as well as 30 and 60 minutes postexercise. Results: Time-trial performance was significantly improved during HC compared with both CON and LC (HC = 277 [83], CON = 266 [89], and LC = 265 [77] W; P Conclusion: The pressure levels exerted via lower-limb compression garments influence their effectiveness for cycling performance, particularly in the face of limited recovery.

Background: Burn injuries most often result from catastrophic events, leaving the individual with multiple impairments that require intensive and extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation (Elsherbiny, Salem, El-Sabbagh, Elhadidy, & Eldeen, 2011; Kornhaber, Wilson, Abu-Qamar, & McLean, 2014; Sliwa, Heinemann, & Semik, 2005). Burn injuries can lead to a broad range of physical and psychological changes for the individual patient, including the development of hypertrophic scarring. Hypertrophic scars appear different to surrounding healthy skin in that they can be raised, and have a different texture and colour (Tredget, Levi, & Donelan, 2014). If hypertrophic scarring is untreated, the collagen fibre deposition undergoes reorganization, which can cause skin contractures and scar related problems such as movement restrictions, itch and heat intolerance (Ladak & Tredget, 2009). Patients are requested to adhere to lengthy, at times painful, and intensive rehabilitation programmes to manage hypertrophic scars.Compression garments have been used since the 1970s as part of an intensive rehabilitation programme for the management of hypertrophic scars (Atiyeh, El Khatib, & Dibo, 2013; Bloeman et al., 2009; Macintyre & Baird, 2006; Van den Kerckhove et al., 2005). Compression garments rely on a firm fit and prolonged wear (23 hours per day) to ensure that sufficient pressure is applied to inhibit scar growth and optimise scar management (Atiyeh et al., 2013; Bloemen et al., 2009; Ladak & Tredget, 2009; Macintyre & Baird, 2006; Tredget et al., 2014; Williams, Knapp, & Wallen, 1998). The aim of compression garment wear includes direct influence on hypertrophic scar tissues as well as improvements in physical limitations including skin contracture and itch. Compression garments have been reported to reduce hypertrophic scar growth in 60-85% of patients (Atiyeh et al., 2013; Reno, Grazianetti, & Cannas, 2001; Yagmur, Akaishi, Ogawa, & Guneren, 2010). The use of compression garments, however, can cause increased pain, heat intolerance, and skin breakdown for some patients (Johnson, Greenspan, Gorga, Nagler, & Goodwin, 1994; Macintyre & Baird, 2006; Ripper, Renneberg, Landmann, Weigel, & Germann, 2009; Stewart, Bhagwanjee, Mbakaza, & Binase, 2000). Adherence to compression garment wear has been reported as low as 41% (Johnson et al., 1994). With evidence suggesting positive scar and physical outcomes associated with wearing compression garments, it is important to understand why intensive wear might be difficult. Limited literature is available to explain the patient experience of wearing compression and what experiences make wearing compression difficult. Therefore, it is essential to investigate the patient experience of wearing compression garments and the influence of certain experiences on patients’ ability to continue wearing compression garments.Aims: The first aim of this research study was to gain an in-depth understanding of the patient experiences associated with wearing compression garments post-burn injury and identify potential reasons why patients remove their garments. A second aim was to identify what changes could be made to improve the experience of wearing compression garments post-burn injury.Method: A qualitative research design was used, with interpretive description as the methodological approach. Using purposive sampling, 15 burn patients (aged between 24 and 61 years, 8 men and 7 women) were recruited to the study. Eleven patients were recruited over a twelve-month period for interviews, while a further four burn patients were recruited from the hospital burns support group to participate in a focus group. Five occupational therapists currently working within the burn unit participated in a second focus group. Data analysis was undertaken using the six stages of thematic analysis described by Braun and Clarke (2006) to identify themes.Results: Five significant themes were identified from the burn patient and occupation therapist data. The first three themes were derived from burn patient data only and described the burn patients’ experiences of wearing compression garments and included the physical and emotional experiences of wearing compression garments, the experience of being a patient within the burns service, the impact of wearing compression garments. Themes four and five, patient strategies and recommendations for service provision, were built from data from burn patients and occupational therapists. These themes highlight potential modifications to service provision to improve the experience of wearing compression garments, including increased education options, peer support and shared decision making.Conclusion: The findings of this research contribute to an increased understanding of patient experiences associated with wearing compression garments post-burn injury and point towards a number of recommendations to improve these experiences. With such understanding and potentially enhanced service provision, burn patients may be able to wear compression garments more consistently to achieve optimal scar outcomes. With optimal scar management and subsequently improved physical and psychological outcomes, enhanced patient adjustment to life post-burn injury is possible.

There is limited evidence regarding the combined effect of exercise and compression garment on breast cancer–related lymphedema (BCRL). Therefore, we investigate the effect of low-intensity resistance training alone or in combination with a compression garment on lymphedema volume, self-reported lymphedema symptoms, and shoulder mobility and function. A total of 60 women with unilateral BCRL were randomly assigned to low-intensity resistance exercises (Rex group, n = 30) or exercises and compression garment (Rex-Com-group, n = 30). Both groups take part in exercises program consisted of 10–12 repetitions at 50 to 60% of one repetition maximum (IRM), three times weekly, for 8 weeks. The primary outcome was lymphedema volume determined by percentage reduction of excess limb volume (ELV). Secondary outcomes were lymphedema symptoms (pain, heaviness, and tightness) and shoulder mobility and function using the disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) questionnaire. All measurements were standardized and performed before (week 0, W0), after the intervention (week 8, W8), and at follow-up (week 12, W12). A significant reduction in percentage of ELV (p

The following supplement is a rare example of a paper that combines clinical experience and theoretical knowledge on textiles used in compression therapy. The authors' intention is to propose a decision support system for choosing specific compression devices, which can be adjusted to counteract the individual signs and symptoms in an optimally adopted way. The document concentrates on compression devices which can be self-applied by the patients—compression stockings and adjustable wraps. The acronym ‘S.T.R.I.D.E.’, incorporating both textile characteristics and clinical presentation, stands for: Shape, Texture, Refill, Issues, Dosage and Etiology. The intent of the mnemotechnical value is to highlight that successful compression includes more than dosage alone. In addition to dosage, etiology and patient presentation need to be incorporated, including a patient's physical ability to use compression effectively as part of the daily routine, thereby promoting adherence. The suggested algorithms provide a valuable guide to stride across the important, but still underestimated field of medical compression therapy and will help to put the prescription of a specific product on a more rational basis. Enjoy reading! Hugo Partsch Emeritus Professor Medical University of Vienna, Austria

Smart garment system is efficient for upper body movement monitoring during simple tasks. There is a lack of literature on smart textile garments being reliable for shoulder girdle motion assessment in advanced motor tasks such as high string performance. The aim of the article was to examine the reliability of the DAid Smart Shirt for Shoulder Girdle Motion Assessment during advanced motor tasks such as high string performance. Methods: 14 volunteer violinists aged 18.6 (SD 2.1) with a body mass index 20.05 (SD 2.3) were recruited. The violinists performed a legato bowing task. The DAid smart shirt worked as the assessment tool: a compression garment with textile strain sensors sewn onto it. Cronbach alpha coefficient, Interclass Correlation Coefficient were calculated to assess the within-session test-retest reliability. Results: An excellent and good result test-retest reliability was assessed in 57% of the violinists, for other 43%, the ICC and Cronbach alpha coefficient was less than 0.59. Conclusion: the DAid Smart shirt is reliable for shoulder girdle motion assessment during high string performance. The smart textile garment should be customized and suitable for the body in order to assess shoulder girdle motion during high level or advanced activities such as high string performance.

Lower body compression (LBC) has been shown as an effective recovery tool from basketball but it is unknown how it affects performance. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of wearing a LBC garment on anaerobic exercise performance in collegiate basketball players. Healthy Division I collegiate basketball players (n = 12) were recruited for this study. In a crossover, counterbalanced study design, subjects volunteered to participate in two separate visits each with a different condition: wearing a LBC garment or non-compressive control (CON) garment. During each visit, subjects completed 2 &times, 30 second Wingate Anaerobic Tests (WAnTs) separated by a 5-min active recovery period. Each visit was separated by a 72 h washout period. Results revealed that over the 2 &times, 30 second WAnTs, mean power output (p = 0.028, d= 0.35), anaerobic capacity (p = 0.018, d = 0.45), and total work (p = 0.027, d = 0.36) were higher when wearing the LBC versus CON garment. However, peak power output (p = 0.319, d = 0.09), anaerobic power (p = 0.263, d = 0.23), and fatigue index (p = 0.749, d = 0.05) were not statistically different. Rating of perceived exertion (RPE) was significantly lower (p = 0.032, d = 0.72) with LBC compared to CON. Results indicate that LBC may increase anaerobic exercise performance in collegiate basketball players.

Objective Up to 40% of adult burn-injured patients are non-adherent with prescribed compression garment wear. The aim of this paper is to systematically review the literature to understand barriers to adherence with compression garment wear. Method Papers were included if they: investigated adults who required compression garment wear for the management of burns scars; focussed on reasons for non-adherence to compression garment wear; and were available in English. The process of meta-ethnography was then followed to synthesise the findings. Results The factors impacting adherence to compression garment wear were grouped into six themes: sensory factors, psychological state, the impact of the garment on the patient’s function, the availability of social support, the degree of choice, and the education provided to patients by their therapists. A model of compression garment adherence was developed detailing how these factors fit within the continuum of treatment for a burn-injured patient. Conclusions Adherence to compression garment wear post-burn injury is a complex, dynamic phenomenon impacted by a range of factors. Findings from this review may inform approaches to support more consistent and/or extended garment wear, potentially improving scar outcomes and quality-of-life. Further research is recommended to investigate how each of the six identified themes impact adherence.

Compression garments are used by patients with lower extremity edema to help regulate fluid distribution and to prevent orthostatic symptoms. Current compression stockings are often reported as uncomfortable and adherence is poor. The current study was conducted to assess the efficacy of a novel active compression garment on healthy individuals undergoing 60‐degree head‐up tilts for 10 min to induce venous pooling and subsequent physiological responses. During tilts while garments were on, participants’ absolute change in heart rate relative to baseline was lower (16.7 ± 8.7 BPM) compared to control (20.9 ± 11.47 BPM, P = 0.002). There were no differences in changes in mean arterial blood pressure between conditions (P = 0.303). One participant had a pre‐syncopal event which occurred during a tilt without garments. This participant did not experience pre‐syncopal symptoms with the garments on. All together, these data suggest that a novel active compression garment is capable of blunting increases in heart rate during head‐up tilt. While untested thus far in patient populations, these garments may prove efficacious in preventing orthostatic intolerance.

Human bodies come under loads in sports. For safety or other purposes, athletes wear compression garments to help avoid wrong postures or movement. We assessed anthropometrics of elite rowers, and found significant differences with the general population, indicating compression garments would behave differently for the athletes. By combining 3D scanning technique and FEM modelling software, we were able to predict compression garment performance on part of the athlete bodies . Abaqus Explicit solver was applied to simulate movement of athletes actually putting on a compression garment, and to track stress distribution during the process.

Background A 76-year-old woman presented with rheumatoid lymphedema (RL) distal to the left elbow after 20 years of affliction with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Although the RA was controlled by medication, the patient could not receive full-scale compression therapy for her edema with a medium-pressure compression sleeve (pressure: 20–25 mm Hg) due to hand dysfunction caused by long-term RA. Methods Lymphaticovenular anastomosis (LVA) was performed after compression therapy with a low-pressure sleeve (14–18 mm Hg) proved ineffective for edema relief. Two anastomoses were created in a side-to-end fashion at the cubital fossa. Results The edema improved rapidly after LVA and was maintained with a low-pressure compression sleeve. Conclusion LVA represents a treatment option for remaining RL in RA treatment. As some RL patients are ineligible for full-scale compression therapy due to hand dysfunction caused by RA, LVA may help to reduce RL and enable edema management using a low-pressure compression garment without concern for hand dysfunction.

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of an upper body compression garment (UBCG) on thermoregulatory responses during cycling in a controlled laboratory thermoneutral environment (~23°C).A secondary aim was to determine the cardiovascular and perceptual responses when wearing the garment. Methods: Sixteen untrained participants (age: 21.3 ± 5.7 years; peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak): 50.88 ± 8.00 mL/min/kg; mean ± SD) performed 2 cycling trials in a thermoneutral environment (~23°C) wearing either UBCG or control (Con) garment. Testing consisted of a 5 min rest on a cycle ergometer, followed by 4 bouts of cycling for 14 min at ~50%VO2peak, with 1 min rest between each bout. At the end of these bouts there was 10 min of passive recovery. During the entire protocol rectal temperature (Trec), skin temperature (Tskin), mean body temperature (Tbody), and heat storage (HS) were measured. Heart rate (HR), VO2, pH, hematocrit (Hct), plasma electrolytes, weight loss (Wloss), and perceptual responses were also measured. Results: There were no significant differences between garments for Tskin, HS, HR, VO2, pH, Hct, plasma electrolyte concentration, Wloss, and perceptual responses during the trial. Trec did not differ between garment conditions during rest, exercise, or recovery although a greater reduction in Trec wearing UBCG (p = 0.01) was observed during recovery. Lower Tbody during recovery was found when wearing UBCG (36.82°C ± 0.3°C vs. 36.99°C ± 0.24°C). Conclusion: Wearing a UBCG did not benefit thermoregulatory, cardiovascular, and perceptual responses during exercise although it was found to lower Tbody during recovery, which suggests that it could be used as a recovery tool after exercise. This study was supported by the Public University of Navarre.

[PURPOSE]: The combined effect of different types of post-exercise treatment has not been fully explored. We investigated the effect of combined cold water immersion (CWI) and compression garment (CG) use after maximal eccentric exercise on maximal muscle strength, indirect muscle damage markers in the blood, muscle thickness, and muscle soreness score 24 h after exercise. [METHODS]: Ten men performed two trials (CWI + CG and CON) in random order. In the CWI + CG trial, the subjects performed 15 min of CWI (15°C), followed by wearing of a lower-body CG for 24 h after exercise. In the CON trial, there was no post-exercise treatment. The exercise consisted of 6 × 10 maximal isokinetic (60°·s(-1)) eccentric knee extensions using one lower limb. The maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and maximal isokinetic (60°·s(-1)) strength during knee extension, as well as the indirect muscle damage markers, were evaluated before exercise and 24 h after exercise. [RESULTS]: The maximal muscle strength decreased in both trials (p < 0.001), with no difference between them. The exercise-induced elevation in the myoglobin concentration tended to be lower in the CWI + CG trial than in the CON trial (p = 0.060). The difference in the MVC, maximal isokinetic strength, muscle thickness, and muscle soreness score between the trials was not significant. [CONCLUSION]: CWI followed by wearing of a CG after maximal eccentric exercise tended to attenuate the exercise-induced elevation of indirect muscle damage markers in the blood.

Physical, non-painful processes guide the scar reshaping in children in order to prevent growth anomalies due to cutaneous shrinkage. The objective of the surgical treatment, coordinated with the reeducation care, is to improve the physical abilities of the skin, to restore the function and avoid the deformations. Reeducation uses various techniques (i.e. sensitive-motility, massage and mobilizations) with or without physical agent (water, aspiration and touch-drive technique). Posture and positioning rely on the small or major aids, from orthosis to prosthesis. Compression is obtained by the adjustment of aids on molding and compression garment. Indications of the reeducation treatment depend on the timing of cutaneous covering and the advance of the healing process. It also depends on the underlying condition including skin traumas (frictions, wounds, burns), skin surgeries (purpura fulminans consequences, skin graft reconstruction after giant nevus resection, malignant lesion or vascular malformations). The final goal is the rehabilitation and development of the child and the adolescent in its entire somatopsychic dimension.

In this study, we explained the effects of compression garment and electrostimulation on athletes' recovery period by evaluating blood lactate and isokinetic peak torque parameters. Twenty volunteers (15.55± 0.51 yr) were included to study. At recovery period, blood samples was taken for lactate values at 0th, 3rd, 5th, 15th, 30th min. The isokinetic strength test was performed on right ankle at 15th min and on the left ankle at 30th min. The same protocol was performed for compression garment on 2 weeks and for electrostimulation on third weeks and results were compared. There wasn't any significant difference on blood lactate levels within groups. At women; there was not any significant difference on isokinetic peak torques within two groups. but at electro-stimulation usage we found significant increases on right plantar flexion (P

The present study examined the effects of wearing a lower-body compression garment (CG) after endurance exercise on recovery of physiological function. 18 males were divided into 2 experiments, the downhill running (n=10, DHR) experiments and the level running (n=8, LR) experiments. Subjects performed 30 min of DHR (gradient: - 10%) or LR (gradient: 0%) at 70% of ˙VO2max with either wearing a CG (CG trial) or normal garment (CON trial) for 24 h after running. Changes in jump performance (counter movement jump; CMJ, rebound jump; RJ, drop jump; DJ), subjective feelings, circumferences of leg, and blood variables (creatine kinase, myoglobin, interleukin-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) were evaluated before exercise, immediately after exercise, 1, 3 and 24 h following exercise. Running economy was evaluated at 24 h following exercise. CMJ height and RJ index were significantly higher in the CG trial than in the CON trial 24 h after running (P0.05). Although changes in muscle soreness and blood variables were significantly greater in the DHR experiment than in the LR experiment, there was no significant difference between the trials in either experiment. Wearing a CG following endurance exercise facilitated recovery of jump performance under situations with severe exercise-induced muscle damage.

Compression garments are widely used in various sports activities. Since the cloths in a compression garment are sufficiently attached to the human body, it is possible for a compression garment to have particular mechanical functions by appropriately arranging the tension distribution in the garment. However, the effects of such garment on muscle activity have not been sufficiently investigated yet. Therefore, a method of musculoskeletal simulation for such problems were developed in the present study. In the developed musculoskeletal model, particular belt-like parts of cloths which had larger tension against stretch were modelled as virtual ligaments. In order to distribute the virtual ligaments, 403 reference points for upper half of the body were defined on the whole body in the musculoskeletal model. These points could be used as start, end and via points for the virtual ligaments. As an example of analysis, a running motion was analyzed in the present study. The running motion was acquired from the experiment using motion capture system, and put into the simulation model. One simple pattern of tension distribution was examined by the simulation. From the simulation, it was confirmed that the muscle activity changed according to the tension of the belt-like cloths. Therefore the developed simulation method will be useful for the design (the arrangement of the belt-like cloths) of the whole body compression garments.

BACKGROUND The potential mechanism of compression apparel remains unclear to date because of insufficient knowledge on the influence of compressive level on muscular responses. OBJECTIVE To explore the influence of external leg compression on (a) the muscle force and endurance of the quadriceps femoris and (b) the muscle activation patterns during prolonged muscle actions. METHODS Twelve male participants performed consecutive maximal concentric muscle actions of the quadriceps in compression garment (CG) and control condition (CON) at two angular velocities on the Contrex. The EMG amplitude and frequency of the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), and vastus medialis were quantified during the concentric phase of the knee extension movement. RESULTS There was no significant compression effect on muscle force and total work during knee extensions. Contrarily, the overall EMG amplitude was significantly lower in CG than in CON at 60 and 300°/s. Additionally, the EMG frequency of the RF and VL was significantly higher in CG than in CON at 60°/s. CONCLUSION Increased external pressure is associated with changes in EMG time and frequency domain behavior. These effects can potentially relieve muscle fatigue and improve muscle endurance during long-term exercise.

BACKGROUND: The mechanism by which increased compression affects muscle strength and electromyographic (EMG) time/frequency domain behavior during prolonged muscle actions has yet to be elucidated. OBJECTIVE: To determine the effectiveness of compression on quadriceps strength and endurance and EMG amplitude/frequency of the quadriceps during repeated concentric muscle contractions. METHODS: Twelve healthy male athletes executed 25 maximal repeated isokinetic knee extensions in compression garment (CG) and control condition (CC) at 60 and 300 ◦ /s on a dynamometer. The EMG time and frequency domain behavior of the rectus femoris (RF), vastus lateralis (VL), and vastus medialis were collected synchronously. RESULTS: Compression exerted no significant effect on peak moment and total work during the isokinetic contractions. By contrast, the overall EMG root mean square amplitude was significantly lower ( p< 0.05) in CG than in CC while the EMG mean power frequency of the RF and VL was significantly higher ( p< 0.05) in CG than in CC at 60 ◦ /s. CONCLUSION: The described effects may potentially improve muscle endurance and fatigue resistance during prolonged muscle actions.

Introduction Compression garments tend to be difficult to don/doff, due to their intentional function of squeezing the wearer. This is especially true for compression garments used for space medicine and for extravehicular activity (EVA). We present an innovative solution to this problem by integrating shape changing materials-NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) coil actuators formed into modular, 3D-printed cartridges-into compression garments to produce garments capable of constricting on command. Methods A parameterized, 2-spring analytic counterpressure model based on 12 garment and material inputs was developed to inform garment design. A methodology was developed for producing novel SMA cartridge systems to enable active compression garment construction. Five active compression sleeve prototypes were manufactured and tested: each sleeve was placed on a rigid cylindrical object and counterpressure was measured as a function of spatial location and time before, during, and after the application of a step voltage input. Results Controllable active counterpressures were measured up to 34.3 kPa, exceeding the requirement for EVA life support (29.6 kPa). Prototypes which incorporated fabrics with linear properties closely matched analytic model predictions (4.1%/-10.5% error in passive/active pressure predictions); prototypes using nonlinear fabrics did not match model predictions (errors >100%). Pressure non-uniformities were observed due to friction and the rigid SMA cartridge structure. Discussion To our knowledge this is the first demonstration of controllable compression technology incorporating active materials, a novel contribution to the field of compression garment design. This technology could lead to easy-to-don compression garments with widespread space and terrestrial applications.

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of an ankle compression garment (CG) on muscle performance and physiological variables associated with recovery from fatigue. Fifteen participants took part in a randomized crossover study design with 2 experimental conditions (ankle CG and control). The dependent variables skin temperature, evoked muscle contractile properties, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) force, electromyography (EMG), drop jump performance (20, 35, and 50 cm box heights), continuous drop jump (30 cm), time to fatigue (TTF), and blood lactate concentration were measured pre- and post-warm-up and postfatigue. Compared with control condition, ankle CG condition had significantly reduced half-relaxation times (p = 0.043) and higher skin temperatures at post-warm-up and post-fatigue protocol (p0.001, Δ3.2 and Δ4%, respectively). Participants also exhibited significantly lower ground reaction forces (GRFs) for 50-cm drop jumps (p = 0.044, Δ9.9%) with ankle CG at post-warm-up. There were no significant differences between conditions for muscle contractile properties, MVC force or EMG, jump height, take-off velocity, contact time, and jumping TTF. Independent of group, there was a threefold increase in blood lactate (p0.01) from pre-warm-up to post-fatigue and a significant decrease in MVC force (p = 0.048, Δ8.1%) from post-warm-up to postfatigue. Results suggest that ankle CG increased and maintained skin temperature during recovery, decreased twitch half-relaxation times, and reduced GRF from a 50-cm drop height. However, ankle CG did not improve other performance measures, aid in recovery, or affect blood lactate clearance.

(1) Background: Compression garments (CGs) are an adjuvant treatment for generalized joint hypermobility (GJH), including the Ehlers&ndash, Danlos syndrome/hypermobility types. The effects of CGs are likely to be related to better proprioceptive control. We aimed to explore the use of CGs in individuals with autism and severe proprioceptive dysfunction (SPD), including individuals with GJH, to control posture and challenging behaviors. (2) Methods: We retrospectively described 14 patients with autism and SPD, including seven with comorbid GJH, who were hospitalized for major challenging behaviors with remaining behavioral symptomatology after the implementation of multidisciplinary approaches, including medication, treatment of organic comorbidities, and behavioral restructuring. Each patient received a CG to wear for at least 1 h (but most often longer) per day for six weeks. We assessed challenging behaviors in these participants with the Aberrant Behavior Checklist (ABC), sensory integration with the Dunn questionnaire, and postural sway and motor performance using a self-designed motricity path at baseline, two weeks, and six weeks. (3) Results: We observed a significant effect on most ABC rating scores at two weeks, which persisted at six weeks (total score, p = 0.004, irritability, p = 0.007, hyperactivity, p = 0.001, lethargy, p = 0.001). Postural control in dorsal and profile positions was significantly improved between before and after wearing the CGs (p = 0.006 and 0.007, respectively). Motor performance was also significantly improved. However, we did not observe a significant change in Dunn sensory scores. During the six-week duration, the treatment was generally well-tolerated. A comorbid GJH diagnosis was not associated with a better outcome. (4) Conclusions: CGs appear to be a promising adjuvant treatment for both behavioral and postural impairments in individuals with autism and SPD.

Compression garments can enhance performance and promote recovery in athletes. Different body coverage with compression garments may impose distinct effects on kinematic movement mechanics and thus basketball free-throw accuracy. The objective of this study was to examine basketball free-throw shooting accuracy, consistency and the range of motion of body joints while wearing upper-, lower- and full-body compression garments. Twenty male basketball players performed five blocks of 20 basketball free-throw shooting trials in each of the following five compression garment conditions: control-pre, top, bottom, full (top + bottom) and control-post. All conditions were randomized except pre- and post-control (the first and last conditions). Range of motion of was acquired by multiple inertial measurement units. Free-throw accuracy and the coefficient of variation were also analyzed. Players wearing upper-body or full-body compression garments had significantly improved accuracy by 4.2% and 5.9%, respectively (p &lt, 0.05), but this difference was not observed with shooting consistency. Smaller range of motion of head flexion and trunk lateral bending (p &lt, 0.05) was found in the upper- and full-body conditions compared to the control-pre condition. These findings suggest that an improvement in shooting accuracy could be achieved by constraining the range of motion through the use of upper-body and full-body compression garments.

Background Compression garments are a widely used intervention for the management of hypertrophic scar and recent research demonstrates the varied experiences of patients wearing compression garments. However, the patient and therapist perspective on how to improve the experience of wearing compression garments remains unexplored. Objective To gain an understanding of the patient and therapist perspective of potential improvements to the provision of compression garments after burns. Method A qualitative research design with an interpretive description approach was utilised in this study. Data was collected from patients through semi-structured interviews and a focus group and therapists by a focus group. Thematic analysis was completed to reveal the key themes across the data. Results Two main themes were identified: “what patients want” and “access to professional development”. The first theme “what patients want” described three suggested improvements including education, peer support, and increased participation in garment prescription. Conclusions The reported patient and therapist perspectives highlight the need for further research into service improvement to enhance the patient experience of wearing compression garments after burns.

This prospective, single-centre, observational study set out to evaluate the clinical performance and safety of JOBST Relax®, a custom-made compression garment, when worn by a series of patients with lymphoedema during resting hours and at night. Patients were recruited after undergoing complete decongestive therapy (CDT) and wore the night-time compression garment for 21 days as part of their compression therapy regimen. Questionnaires were used to capture their views on parameters such as the garment's comfort, ease of use, fit, ability to avoid excessive heat and perspiration, its effect on their quality of life and their overall satisfaction with it. Occurrences of erythema, skin rash, skin dryness and pain were also evaluated. Ninety-one patients completed the study. Most perceived the night-time compression garment to be ‘very good’ or ‘good’ in terms of its ease of use and comfort, its ability to control their oedema and its effect on their quality of sleep. The prevalence of erythema, skin rash, skin dryness and pain was reduced when compared with baseline. Patients also reported that the night-time garment reduced their dependence on others and improved their quality of life. Overall, most rated their satisfaction with the garment as ‘very good’ or ‘good’. Patients reported a high level of satisfaction with both the garment and the comfort associated with it when wearing it frequently.

The study aimed to review the literature on the effects related to post-exercise of graduated compression garments (GCGs) use on muscle recovery and delayed onset muscle soreness. The search was performed in Pubmed/Medline, Bireme, Scielo, and Lilacs electronic databases using the following descriptors in English: "compression clothing", "physical exercise", "recovery", "physical activity", "compression stockings" and "delayed onset muscle soreness". The search resulted in 102 articles and after removing duplicates, applying exclusion criteria and checking the reference lists, nine studies fulfilled the criteria and were included in the review. Seven studies associated the use of GCGs with reduction of delayed muscle soreness and improvement in performance after the use of compression clothes. However, the methodological quality of the studies, using PEDro scale, presented an average of 5.1±0.9 points (out of a total of 11 points), classified as intermediate. In conclusion, although the positive effects of using CGCs on improving recovery and reduction of delayed muscle soreness after physical exercises are almost consensual, the insufficient methodological quality of the included studies requires careful consideration of the results., Motricidade, Vol 14 No 2-3 (2018): Motricidade

The aim of the study is to investigate the comparative effect of compression sleeves, rest and active recovery on performance and immediate recovery from high-intensity cycling performance (HICP). Eight recreationally trained male cyclists completed three trials, each separated by one week. Each trial consisted of two 10-min high intensity exercise task (30-20-10 s maximal HICP bouts with 3 min 1 W/kg recovery) separated by application one of the three 24-min recovery strategies (active – cycling 1W/kg, ACT; passive – supine position, PAS; passive – sitting with compression sleeves; PAS+CS). Applied recovery strategy effectiveness was assessed via changes in blood lactate clearance (LA), acid-base changes and performance parameters (fatigue index, FI; peak power, PP and relative peak power). Fatigue index was significantly improved by ACT for 30s and 20s HICP. There was a significant decrease in FI for PAS + CS (p = 0.041) and PAS (p = 0.026) showing a negative impact of PAS + CS and PAS for keeping PP during 10s task. The rate of decrease in plasma LA concentration over the 24-min recovery period was significantly higher in ACT (0.50 ± 0.1 mmol/min) compared to PAS and PAS+CS (0.31 ± 0.07 mmol/l, p = 0.001, 0.37 ± 0.09 mmol/min, p = 0.024, respectively). The passive recovery strategies decreased the ability of keeping repeated maximal intensity cycling performance in contrast to active recovery. The use of compression calf sleeves has no significant additional effect on plasma lactate clearance after high intensity anaerobic exercise above resting condition. This article was written at the Masaryk University as part of the project The Effect Of Selected Regeneration Techniques Applied In The Early Phase Of Recovery On Performance And Biochemical Indicators Of Recovery 1255/2016 with the support of the Specific University Research Grant, as provided by the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports of the Czech Republic in the year 2017.

User-oriented custom-fit compression garment (CG) catering to individual preferences is fast growing. This study aims to establish and verify a new three-dimensional (3D) modeling and design system of custom-fit functional compression garment including digitalized body scanning, digital knitting design and performance assessment. The personalized numerical 3D models of human and elastic compression fabrics were created based on medical magnetic resonance scanning images, anthropometry, and finite element analysis. The developed numerical model was validated using experimental data and demonstrated agreement with the measured skin pressure profiles. The tissue deformations, curvature variations and internal stress distributions by the designed and fabricated CG were visualized via the developed numerical model and used for assessment of biomechanical effects of the designed CG on the specific subject. The applicability of the proposed digitalized development and assessment system for custom-fit pressure product was demonstrated, which would not only contribute to improving custom-fit, pressure function and wearing comfort, but also conform to the promising trend of automation and data exchange in modern textile and fashion manufacturing technologies.

This paper outlines an ongoing PhD dissertation research, seeking to explore the user experience of a non-traditional form of haptic modality --- compression, through the use of computer-mediated on-body compression systems with embedded active materials that are capable of being simultaneously functional, remotely-controllable, and inconspicuous. The motivation for this work is to address the need to expand our understanding of different haptic sensations, in this case, the objective and subjective effects of compression on a user, as well as how might the use of active, dynamically-controllable garments affect traditional compression garment use paradigms.

The sensation of touch is integral to everyday life. Current haptics research focuses mainly on vibrations, tap, and point pressures, but the sensation of distributed pressures such as compression are often overlooked. We investigated the subjective comfort and emotional effects of applied on-body compression, specifically on the torso and upper arms, through a pilot user study incorporating a novel, low-profile, and actively-controllable compression garment. The active compression garment was embedded with contractile shape memory alloys (SMAs) to create dynamic compression on the body. Qualitative interview data collected (n=8) were used to generate a list of findings to inform the future creation of a computer-mediated compression garment that is wearable, comfortable, and safe for use.

We determined the effects of wearing an above-knee compression garment (CG) on knee joint position sense. Healthy young adults (n = 24, age = 27.46 +/- 4.65 years) performed a passive knee position-matching task on an isokinetic dynamometer with each leg separately. We determined the magnitude of compression by measuring anatomical thigh cross sectional area (CSA) in standing using magnetic resonance imaging. Wearing the CG compressed CSA by 2% (t = 2.91, p = 0.010, Cohen's d = 0.68). Repeated measures ANOVA (rANOVA) with three repetition factors (condition: CG, no CG; leg: right dominant, left non-dominant; and target angles: 30 degrees, 45 degrees, 60 degrees) revealed an effect of angles (p

Objective Compression therapy (CT) has been an important, but debated, treatment for burn scars. To better understand one source of variation in observed outcomes after CT, an evaluation of CT timing of application is needed. Materials and Methods Following IRB approval, 126 burn centers were contacted to complete a 17-question survey regarding the center’s practice pattern for compression garment therapy. Locally, study subjects were identified between March 1, 2014 and December 31, 2015 and medical records examined for timing of garment ordering, delivery and fitting. Results The majority believed that compression therapy is beneficial. Most centers reported using custom-fit and pre-fabricated garments, and a goal time of application between 2–4 weeks (42%) and 4–6 weeks (36%). After the garments are ordered, 61% of centers estimate that it takes 2–4 weeks for them to arrive. No significant differences in practices were found among centers treating pediatric patients only, adults only or both. Locally, the mean number of weeks between the date of original injury and garment order placement was 9.1 weeks with an additional 8.7 weeks between the date of order and date of delivery. Conclusions The current study identified that although the national reporting of time to garment application is estimated to be between 2–6 weeks at the majority of burn centers including our own, we found our center to be well in excess of 17 weeks. The findings offer an opportunity for local improvement, and raise the possibility of similar incongruity between goals and practice at other centers.

Background: The use of compression garments has spread rapidly among athletes, largely because of marketing and perceived benefits. Upon review, it is unclear whether compression garments have a significant effect on performance and recovery, although they have been found to enhance proprioception. Further, it is reported that compression of the knee joint improves both dynamic and static balance. However, there is currently a paucity of data demonstrating the effects of compression garments on the biomechanical risk factors of knee-related injuries in female athletes. Purpose: To evaluate the ability of a directional compression garment to alter hip and knee kinematics and kinetics during a drop vertical jump (DVJ) in healthy college-aged female athletes. Study Design: Controlled laboratory study. Methods: A sample of 23 healthy female collegiate athletes (mean age, 19.6 ± 1.3 years) participating in jumping sports (volleyball, basketball, and soccer) was included in this analysis. Each athlete performed 2 sets of 3 DVJs with and without a directional compression garment. Three-dimensional hip and knee kinematics and kinetics were collected using a standard Helen-Hayes 29-marker set, which was removed and reapplied after the garment was fitted, as well as 8 visible-red cameras and 2 force platforms. Each participant was tested in a single session. Results: Hip abduction range of motion was significantly reduced from 12.6° ± 5.5° to 10.2° ± 4.6° ( P = .002) while performing DVJs without and with the compression garment, respectively. No statistically significant differences between conditions were found in peak hip abduction, knee valgus range of motion, peak valgus, peak hip abduction moment, and peak knee valgus moment. Conclusion: The results of this study show that wearing compression garments does have minimal effects on lower body mechanics during landing from a DVJ, partially supporting the idea that compression garments could acutely alter movement patterns associated with the knee injury risk. However, further research should focus on muscle activation patterns and adaptations over time. Clinical Relevance: The use of specifically designed compression garments could aid in the prevention of knee injuries by inducing changes in jumping mechanics.

Lymphedema is a condition characterized by localized fluid retention and tissue swelling caused by a compromised lymphatic system. To minimize fluid buildup and stimulate the flow of fluid through the lymphatic system, compression garments are usually applied to patients with lymphedema. There are few studies to report complications of compression garments to treat breast cancer-related lymphedema. To our knowledge, this is the first report of radial nerve compression neuropathy associated with wearing a compression garment to treat lymphedema. Level of Evidence: V.

Compression apparel is popular in both medical and sport performance settings. Perceived benefits are suggested to include changes in sensory feedback transmission caused by activation of mechanoreceptors. However, little is known about effects of compression apparel on sensorimotor control. Our purpose was to mechanistically examine whether compression apparel modulates sensory feedback transmission and reaching accuracy in the upper limb. Two experiments were completed under CONTROL and COMPRESSION (sleeve applied across the elbow joint) conditions. M-waves and H-reflexes were elicited by stimulating the median nerve and were recorded via surface electromyography (EMG). In experiment 1, H-reflexes and M-H recruitment curves were assessed at REST, during wrist flexion (10% EMGmax), and during a cutaneous conditioning of the superficial radial (SR) or distal median (MED) nerve. Cutaneous reflexes were elicited during 10% wrist flexion via stimulation of SR or MED. In experiment 2, unconditioned H-reflex measures were assessed at rest, during arm cycling, and during a discrete reaching task. Results indicate that compression apparel modulates spinal cord excitability across multiple sensory pathways and movement tasks. Interestingly, there was a significant improvement in reaching accuracy while wearing the compression sleeve. Taken together, the compression sleeve appears to increase precision and sensitivity around the joint where the sleeve is applied. Compression apparel may function as a “filter” of irrelevant mechanoreceptor information allowing for optimal task-related sensory information to enhance proprioception. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Wearing a customized compression sleeve was shown to alter the excitability of multiple pathways within the central nervous system regardless of conditioning input or movement task and was accompanied by improved accuracy of reaching movements and determination of movement end point. Compression apparel may assist as a type of “filter function” of tonic and nonspecific mechanoreceptor information leading to increased precision and movement sensitivity around the joint where compression is applied.

Medical compression garments are used to treat lymphatic disorders or conditions of poor venous return (e.g. orthostatic intolerance). Conventional compression garments, namely elastic compression sleeves and inflatable compression systems, may aid in relief of these conditions but are also limited in usability. Fixed levels of compression in elastic materials may induce challenges in donning/doffing, complicating patient compliance [1]. Compression levels in inflatable systems are customizable, but these garments are also bulky and require a tethered inflation source [2]. We are interested in developing easy-to-don/-doff compression garments using shape memory alloy (SMA) coil actuators that contract with heat from an applied current which can be wrapped around the body to apply compressive forces. More specifically, we use a spring coil formation as described by Holschuh et al. [3]. Further developed in the Wearable Technology Lab at the University of Minnesota, our current SMA compression garment (SMA-CG) design improves upon the work of Duvall et al. [4] presented in previous year’s (2017) Design of Medical Devices Conference, representing a year’s evolution in active compression garment design that integrate actuators made with SMA.

Muscle activity and fatigue performance parameters were obtained and compared between both a smart compression garment and the gold-standard, a surface electromyography (EMG) system during high-speed cycling in seven participants. The smart compression garment, based on force myography (FMG), comprised of integrated pressure sensors that were sandwiched between skin and garment, located on five thigh muscles. The muscle activity was assessed by means of crank cycle diagrams (polar plots) that displayed the muscle activity relative to the crank cycle. The fatigue was assessed by means of the median frequency of the power spectrum of the EMG signal; the fractal dimension (FD) of the EMG signal; and the FD of the pressure signal. The smart compression garment returned performance parameters (muscle activity and fatigue) comparable to the surface EMG. The major differences were that the EMG measured the electrical activity, whereas the pressure sensor measured the mechanical activity. As such, there was a phase shift between electrical and mechanical signals, with the electrical signals preceding the mechanical counterparts in most cases. This is specifically pronounced in high-speed cycling. The fatigue trend over the duration of the cycling exercise was clearly reflected in the fatigue parameters (FDs and median frequency) obtained from pressure and EMG signals. The fatigue parameter of the pressure signal (FD) showed a higher time dependency (R2 = 0.84) compared to the EMG signal. This reflects that the pressure signal puts more emphasis on the fatigue as a function of time rather than on the origin of fatigue (e.g., peripheral or central fatigue). In light of the high-speed activity results, caution should be exerted when using data obtained from EMG for biomechanical models. In contrast to EMG data, activity data obtained from FMG are considered more appropriate and accurate as an input for biomechanical modeling as they truly reflect the mechanical muscle activity. In summary, the smart compression garment based on FMG is a valid alternative to EMG-garments and provides more accurate results at high-speed activity (avoiding the electro-mechanical delay), as well as clearly measures the progress of muscle fatigue over time.

Background Breast cancer-related lymphoedema (BCRL) presents a significant healthcare burden and adversely affects quality of life of breast cancer survivors. A prospective feasibility study was performed on lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA) for the treatment of BCRL. Methods Patients with BCRL underwent near-infrared spectroscopy with indocyanine green lymphatic mapping to identify suitable lymphatic channels for LVA. End-to-end anastomoses to subdermal venules were performed and patients recommenced compression garment therapy (CGT) after surgery. Volumetric assessment of the affected limb was performed at regular intervals using infrared perometry to calculate the excess volume reduction. Results Over a 24-month interval, 27 patients with BCRL underwent LVA. The mean duration of lymphoedema was 3·5 (range 0·5–18) years, and the mean number of LVAs performed was 3 (range 2–5). Twenty-four of the 27 patients completed 12-month follow-up. Patients exhibited three patterns of volumetric response following LVA: sustained response (16 patients), transient response (5) or no response (6). Sustained responders showed an excess volume reduction of −33·2 per cent at 12 months, and this correlated positively with the number of LVAs performed (r = −0·56, P = 0·034). Overall, ten patients were able to downgrade CGT after surgery, and two patients were CGT-free at 12 months. Conclusion LVA resulted in a sustained volume reduction in selected patients and may offset the burden of CGT. Further work is required to identify biomarkers that predict a favourable response to LVA surgery.

Body measurement is the first process that must be encountered before any custom-made compression garment can be designed. The current practice of obtaining the measurement is by traditional methods using tools like measuring tape. However, this method is considered to be time-consuming and usually not accurate. The most popular solution to the problem is by using non-contact measurement. The development of the 3D whole body scanner has made non-contact body measurement become a reality due to its capacity to capture a vast amount of information. However, the cost to buy the whole body scanner is quite expensive. Moreover, their sizes are also bulky which make them less portable. Thus, a handheld body scanner provides a solution to the problem. Despite that, current handheld scanner only provide image and visualization aspect, but not the measurement aspect. This paper reports the development of a method to acquire body data from a 3D handheld scanner. In this new method, the point cloud of a body part was collected using the handheld scanner. Then, the data was transformed into point coordinates. Several processes were developed to filter the number of points to allow for faster processing time and increasing the measurement accuracy. In the first process, only points at specific height/layers are selected. In the second process, the remaining points are rearranged according to their height and angle. In the last process, the number of points is further reduced. In this process, the number of points per layer is limited to 72 points. Results show that the method can be used to determine body measurement.

The predominant clinical presentation of lymphedema is characterized by the presence of regionalized edema; this problem is commonly encountered in the regions of the head and neck. As in other forms of this disease, lymphedema of the head and neck can be classified as either «primary» or «secondary», although hybrid forms will certainly be encountered. Head and neck involvement in primary lymphedema suggests a widespread developmental problem of the lymphatics. Localized head and neck lymphedema also occurs as a consequence of recurrent episodes of skin infection or chronic inflammation. Head and neck lymphedema is often iatrogenic, the consequence of surgical resection and radiotherapy. A compression garment is required to maintain the results achieved with manual lymph drainage and multilayered bandaging. For mild cases of facial lymphedema, a ski mask can fulfill this function, but a medical garment for facial edema may be necessary. The garment is typically worn at home. Treatment of head and neck cancer may trigger a variety of dysfunctional consequences beyond lymphedema. Lymphedema of the face and neck generates emotional and social dysfunction which must be assessed and addressed in a timely fashion to maximally enhance the quality of life for patients and family.

Lower extremity lymphedema accounts for the majority of all lymphedema cases. There­fore, its treatment deserves more attention than treatment of any other part of the body.

Compression and stretch fit apparel have long been used for the medical treatment of hypertrophic scars and venous diseases, as well as for body shaping and intimate apparel. Compression sportswear has been recently developed to improve athletic performance. Given the extensive applications of compression and stretch fit apparel products, more attention should be given to its functions and effectiveness. The selection of materials and the maintenance of proper pressure levels are critical to achieve the desired outcomes and to avoid negative effects on the wearers. The physiological and psychophysical effects on the human body, which are attributed to the compression garment, may affect the acceptance and compliance of these garments, as well as the outcomes of its use. The balance between different design criteria is important in the development of compression garments.