Here’s something you knee-d to know: knee pain is very common.
Whether you’re young or old, active or inactive, completely healthy or suffering from a condition, knee pain can strike anytime, anywhere and anyone.
And when that happens, a knee compression sleeve is usually recommended to help deal with the ago-knee (we’ll stop with the knee puns, we promise).
But of course, you wouldn’t want to jump right into purchasing anything without knowing whether it works or not. Doing some research is always good practice and will help you come to the right decision.
What’s even better is if all your questions are answered in just one article — like this one! By the end of this post, you should know:
- What a knee compression sleeve is for, how it works and how it’s different from a knee brace
- The benefits of knee compression sleeves
- What makes a good knee compression sleeve, and how to choose the right one
- How to use compression sleeves safely
Let’s get into it.
What is a knee compression sleeve?
It’s a stretchy band of fabric that’s used to provide warmth and compression to the knee. The warmth of the compression increases blood flow to the knee, which then gives you better control, support and stability.
Knee compression sleeves are different from knee braces, which are designed to protect a knee injury that has already happened.
While knee compression sleeves stretch and wrap around the knees to reduce swelling, minimize pain and provide support, knee braces are made out of more hardy materials to limit movement and allow for recovery.
Knee compression sleeve benefits
One of the most common questions asked about knee compression sleeves is whether they really work or not. This is, of course, understandable as nobody wants to wear a fabric around their knees when it does pretty much nothing.
But don’t worry. As backed by various studies, knee compression sleeves have been proven to aid with:
- gait and knee function
- reduction of pain and/or swelling in and around the knee
- minimizing chances of injury during sports or workouts
- increasing range of motion
- faster recovery
All these benefits combined, knee compression sleeves can help with:
- Tendonitis or overuse of muscles (or muscle pain), like runner’s knee
- Sprains and strains caused by certain movements, improper form or lifting techniques
- Cartilage pain or discomfort (such as that caused by osteoarthritis or arthritis)
In short, knee compression sleeves would definitely help in managing existing knee pain or preventing injuries. Using knee compression sleeves would also avoid long-term side effects from oral pain-relief drugs.
Choosing the best knee compression sleeve
It’s worth noting though, that not all compression sleeves are made the same.
There are different sizes, styles, fabric types and price points — on top of other attractive offers that might appeal to certain consumers. For example, some knee compression sleeves work best for arthritis, while some are designed specifically for running.
Fit
But before we get into specifics, it’s important that you get the measurements right. You’ll need a measuring tape or a string and ruler for this.
- Bend your leg at a 30° angle by standing straight and holding your form at the bottom of a squat.
- Measure the circumference of your leg about 4” starting from the middle of your kneecap.
- Reference knee size charts (especially that of the brand you’re opting for) before purchasing.
A compression sleeve needs to be snug — not too tight, not too loose. Though a knee compression sleeve may seem simple in theory, it can cause unwanted reactions if the wrong fit is used.
Compression sleeves that are too tight can break thin, brittle and dry skin. They can even cut off circulation, bruise or chafe the legs and cause skin irritation (such as itching, redness or dents).
Material
Neoprene, polyester, cotton, nylon, and spandex are materials commonly used in knee compression sleeves for their elasticity and ability to absorb moisture.
Knee sleeves will make full and direct contact with your skin, so make sure that you’re not allergic to any of those materials before purchasing.
As for how long you can wear knee compression sleeves, the general rule is that they are good to go for up to 6 months before they start losing their stretch.
Precautions and risks
Though nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) can provide relief for joint and muscle pains, NSAIDs can have long-term side effects such as the increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
The Thermosleeve is a safer method to relieve your joints or muscular pains. It uses non-invasive hot/cold compression therapy to reduce swelling or increase blood flow.
If you’re unsure about using knee compression sleeves, the best thing to do is to consult your doctor.
Those who have diabetes, arthritis, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or any other health conditions whose symptoms include inflammation, swelling or any kind of pain should also double-check with their doctors before purchasing and/or using.
Thermosleeve: more than just a knee compression sleeve
Since you’re on the lookout for a good knee compression sleeve, get the Thermosleeve by HYDRAGUN instead. It’s a 360° multi-temperature compression sleeve that aids in recovery and pain relief, plus many other benefits:
A true multi-tasker
What’s great about the Thermosleeve is that aside from using it as a knee compression sleeve, you can also use it on nearly any part of your body to regulate temperature, relieve pain, improve circulation and aid in recovery.
Made with high-quality fabric
Rest easy knowing that you will not experience any adverse effects after being in contact with the Thermosleeve as it is made from antibacterial and hypoallergenic fabric.
Hot or cold? Have it your way
Equipped with ThermoGel™ Technology, this knee compression sleeve provides controlled temperature release around the entire joint or muscle.
It is a safe, non-toxic hydrogel that optimizes energy transfer so that it stays hot or cold for the recommended amount of time.
Simply pop it in the freezer or microwave (for no more than 30 seconds at a time) and wear it as a compression sleeve. You can also use your Thermosleeve as a weighted ice/heat pack (for no more than 10 minutes at a time to prevent burns or ice burns).
Using the Thermosleeve will provide you with instant and immediate relief — minus the mess of melting ice or condensation!
Here’s an easy guide on when to use your Thermosleeve:
Don’t let knee pain stop you from being at your best every day. Experience faster recovery and pain relief with an effective knee compression sleeve. Try Thermosleeve today!
