The use of compression socks during running

Abstract

Introduction: Running has become a popular sport. The health benefits obtained through running and the ease of access contribute to the increase in runners. Due to the runner's objectives, health professionals must support different aspects, from running performance to physical recovery after running. Compression socks have the plausibility to meet the varied needs of runners but need more scientific support. Objective: The objective of this thesis was to investigate the effects of using compression socks during running. Methods: This thesis is composed of two studies with different designs and objectives. A systematic review investigated the effects of wearing compression socks during running on physiological, performance and perceptual outcomes. A randomized, controlled crossover clinical trial aimed to investigate the effects of wearing compression socks on muscle soreness and physical recovery after running. This study is in the data-collection phase. Results: Subtopic 2.1 included 28 clinical trials (600 runners). The results showed that compression socks had similar effects to regular socks. The quality of evidence was classified as low to moderate for physiological outcomes (e.g., heart rate mean difference), very low to low for performance outcomes (e.g., running speed), and very low to moderate for self-reported outcomes (e.g., perceived exertion). The study presented in subtopic 2.2 is ongoing, and it is expected that compression stockings will have positive effects in reducing muscle pain in the lower limbs and the perception of physical recovery. Conclusion: There is very low to moderate certainty evidence that wearing compression socks during running does not benefit physiological, running performance, or perceptual outcomes compared to regular socks.