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Discover the benefits of intermittent pneumatic compression devices for improved recovery and reduced soreness after working out. Learn how intermittent pneumatic compression devices can enhance athletic performance and prevent DVT.
Medical Disclaimer: While we do our best to provide you researched-backed information, our articles are just that: informational. Our team consists of members passionate about fitness and wellness, but no doctors at this time. Therefore this article can not and should not be considered medical advice, and we cannot be a judge of whether or not the outlined information is the best choice for you. Consult a healthcare provider before adding supplements to your daily routine.
Introduction to Compression
Muscular compression is good for blood flow and muscle oxygenation, which can lead to better performance and recovery for athletes. Compression sleeves are a garment worn by athletes that compresses the muscles in a particular area. One of the newest fitness trends takes this tool to the next level using intermittent pneumatic compression devices. The bulky-looking sleeves use the latest technology to enhance muscular recovery and decrease soreness after intense cardio workouts.
Contents
Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Device
Intermittent pneumatic compression devices (IPCDs) use small air pumps to increase the pressure exerted on the compression of the muscles. More advanced devices will also use patterns of inflation to push lactic acid, the compound that builds up in anaerobic exercise, out of the muscles to further reduce 'delayed-onset muscular soreness' (DOMS). If you have ever had your blood pressure taken by an inflating arm sleeve, you have an idea of what these devices do to compress your muscles.
In a clinical trial performed by Winke and Williamson, IPCDs were found to be more effective than traditional compression sleeves at reducing DOMS by 39%. A meta-analysis found inconsistent results for muscle damage markers in speeding up recovery, but conclusive evidence was found for perceived soreness. This meta-analysis found that the optimal protocol was "20 to 30 minutes and pressures of about 80 mmHg".
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where blood begins to clot, disrupt flow, or breaks a valve in your veins. Particularly, the veins in your legs that are moving oxygen-depleted blood against gravity and back to your heart. This condition becomes more common in older individuals (+65) and is made worse when sedentary. Muscle contractions in your legs are usually enough to make this condition less severe, but in post-surgery patients, movement is not an option. These clots can have various effects including leg pain, leg swelling and a pulmonary embolism.
IPCDs that wrap around your legs, help to increase blood flow and stimulate the release of natural, anti-clotting compounds. The intermittent compression helps push the blood back up the leg and towards the heart. In a research meta-analysis performed in 2024, it was found that intermittent pneumatic compression "effectively prevented DVT, PE [pulmonary embolisms], and bleeding in surgical patients". Speak to your provider if you believe you have these condition or want IPC to be a part of your surgery recovery plan.
Pneumatic Compression Device Cost
Personal pneumatic compression devices can cost anywhere from $100 to $800 depending on the size, quality, versatility, and technology. A brand like Hyperice makes a premium device with various stages and programs in their Normatec line for professional athletes. Whereas other brands won't have the same sophistication, quality, and versatility, but can be found at a more affordable price level.
Hyperice Recovery has a wide variety of professional-grade workout recovery products. They use the latest technology in pneumatics, heat/cold therapy, and percussion massage fields to craft high-quality devices. Their Normatec line has compression boots and sleeves for various needs.
I have personally tried the Normatec 3 boots, and loved the experience. They have 4 different 'bladders' that inflate separately so that the compression gradually moves up the leg for better flushing waste from the legs.
Therabody
Therabody is most well-known for their massage guns in the 'Theragun' line. They also have a wide variety of wellness products, including the JetBoots Pro Plus. These compression boots are high-quality and have the unique addition of near-infrared LEDs for red light therapy.
Quinear
Quinear offers a more budget-friendly option with their leg compression system. They can be found on Amazon or their website, and specialize in compression sleeves. There is not an extensive set of reliable reviews, but the general consensus is that they are a good quality for the price and provide a good user experience.
Others
There are other alternatives on Amazon, but there are generally mixed reviews on quality, customer service, and prices. Check them out below.
Conclusion
Muscular compression has long been known to improve circulation while reducing inflation and muscle soreness (DOMS). New technology has lead to the development of intermittent pneumatic compression devices that are more effective, and have been shown to reduce the risk of potentially fatal conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Various research studies and personal experience affirm my belief that this functional wellness tool is going to stick around and continue to improve athletes' ability to recover and perform at their best for longer.
Brands such as Hyperice Recovery, Therabody, and Quinear have developed sleeves that use this new technology to bolster recovery and reduce DOMS. While the pneumatic compression devices may be expensive, there are several audiences that would find the investment worthwhile: distance runners, professional athletes, and elderly individuals that are bedridden for a period of more than a few days.
To read more about functional wellness therapies, see more articles here.
Affiliate Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate we earn a commission from select purchases and links as purchased through this site.
Medical Disclaimer: While we do our best to provide you researched-backed information, our articles are just that: informational. Our team consists of members passionate about fitness and wellness, but no doctors at this time. Therefore this article can not and should not be considered medical advice, and we cannot be a judge of whether or not the outlined information is the best choice for you. Consult a healthcare provider before adding supplements to your daily routine.
Sources
Kim NY, Ryu S, Kim YH. Effects of intermittent pneumatic compression devices interventions to prevent deep vein thrombosis in surgical patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. PLoS One. 2024 Jul 23;19(7):e0307602. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307602. PMID: 39042653; PMCID: PMC11265719.
Maia F, Nakamura FY, Sarmento H, Marcelino R, Ribeiro J. Effects of lower-limb intermittent pneumatic compression on sports recovery: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Biol Sport. 2024 Oct;41(4):263-275. doi: 10.5114/biolsport.2024.133665. Epub 2024 Jun 17. PMID: 39416507; PMCID: PMC11475002.
Park JY, Yu J, Kim CS, Baek JW, Jo Y, Kim YK. Effect of pneumatic leg compression on post-induction hypotension in elderly patients undergoing robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy: a double-blind randomised controlled trial. Anaesthesia. 2023 Jun;78(6):730-738. doi: 10.1111/anae.15994. Epub 2023 Mar 1. PMID: 36855947.
Winke M, Williamson S. Comparison of a Pneumatic Compression Device to a Compression Garment During Recovery from DOMS. Int J Exerc Sci. 2018 May 1;11(3):375-383. doi: 10.70252/YXDX1767. PMID: 29795729; PMCID: PMC5955306.
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