Runner's knee is no joke.
The pain and discomfort can sideline us at the worst possible times, whether you're hitting a PR, maintaining an exercise routine, or trying to stay ahead of the competition in your 5K race.
Are knee sleeves worth it for running?
Or are they another in a long line of fitness trends that will fade away?
Should I wear knee sleeves for running?
Knee compression sleeves are pretty popular among runners and athletes. Knee compression sleeves are different from traditional knee braces and are growing in popularity.
A quick look at Amazon reviews, you'll see thousands of reviews of folks who've managed their knee pain with a compression sleeve. In addition, many more doctors and physical therapists are recommending their use.
It's important to note that despite their effectiveness and reducing pain, they will not fix any underlying conditions causing pain. Therefore, it's always important to discuss with your doctor to diagnose any serious conditions.
Benefits for runners
The main benefit of compression sleeves is that they increase blood circulation in your knee area. In turn, this increases oxygenation in your muscles.
- Here are 7 benefits of compression for runners:
· Increases blood circulation
- · Reduces lactic acid buildup
- · Reduces muscle oscillation
- · Helps regulate muscle temperature
- · Reduces delayed-onset muscle soreness
- · Increases sensory feedback
- · Reduces swelling
Which one to buy?
The thought of knee compression sleeves might conjure up images of a bulky, heavy piece of equipment that is the opposite of comfortable. But that's not what they are at all.
A compression sleeve is a lightweight fabric fitted to cover the knee area. The one thing all knee compression sleeves must do, as the name implies, is to compress your knee area.
A quick internet search shows dozens of types and brands of compression sleeves available, all claiming to offer similar benefits.
Elemental things to look for in a knee compression sleeve:
|
• Quality compression knit fabric
• Reusable
• Strong stitching
• Washable
• Silicone strips for anti-slip |
Any other features like copper fibers, fasteners, or cooling pads are extra, or you may find unnecessary.
Pictured: TKWC Knee Compression Sleeve
At Rent A Knee Walker, we carry the TKWC model for compression sleeves because of their consistent product quality.
How tight should a knee sleeve be for running?
If you're wearing one that's too loose, you won't get enough support from them. But if your sleeve is too tight, it will limit your range of motion. So how tight should your compression sleeve be for running?
In order for the sleeves to do their job properly, you want them to fit snugly around your knee area. The knee sleeve should be firm enough to provide firm but comfortable compression during activity.
It shouldn't feel confining or restrictive—you should still have a full range of motion in your leg—but it should feel like you have a nice, supportive hug going on around the knee.
Further Reading: How to Measure for Knee Compression Sleeves.
A well-designed knee compression sleeve should be made with breathable fabric that makes it comfortable when sweating outdoors.
Pictured: TKWC Knee Compression Sleeve
Bottom Line
Wearing knee compression sleeves can provide many benefits for your active lifestyle.
The compression sleeves provide stability, support, and a feeling of protection to the knees while they are being used during exercise. Knee compression sleeves can help reduce pain and make exercising more enjoyable.
Pictured: TKWC Knee Compression Sleeve
Pictured: TKWC Knee Compression Sleeve