How Does An Elbow Compression Sleeve Work?
Elbow compression sleeves have become very popular among athletes and workout enthusiasts throughout the years. The sleeves are not merely for fashion, but also serve a more important purpose.
There are many health benefits of wearing compression sleeves and they can make a huge difference in the success of the physical activity. An elbow compression sleeve is an elastic sleeve worn snugly over the elbow. They are usually made from a neoprene material to encourage compression and stabilization of the joints and muscles in the covered area.
Many athletes have relied on this compression technology to give them a leverage and the underpinning necessary for achieving consistent superior performance.
Advantages of Using an Elbow Compression Sleeve
There are many advantages of wearing a compression sleeve. The elbow compression sleeve, specifically, supports the elbow joint while being active. As an athlete vigorously moves his joints and muscles, considerable amounts of strain and stiffness can affect the joints.
The elbow compression sleeve prevents muscles from tightening up by warming the body temperature in the area it is worn. This, consequently, encourages efficient circulation in the muscles and reduces tension.
Also, compression sleeves aid in muscle recovery after a tough workout. Muscle strain is enormously relieved from the intentional tight design of the compression sleeve.
Another advantage of using a compression sleeve is protection from scratches, bumps, and bruises during high activity. The neoprene material acts as an extra protective layer on top of the skin during workouts. In this manner, it acts similarly to weightlifting gloves that protect the hands of lifters as the hold and lift the rough barbells and equipment.
How to Select the Right Elbow Compression Sleeve
Selecting the proper compression sleeve is specific to the health and athletic needs of the person. It is important to make the right choice, as not doing so may suppress or limit the intended benefits of using the sleeve.
One determining factor when choosing a sleeve is the size of the area to be compressed.
For example, an athlete only concerned with compression in the elbow joint might choose to wear a shorter compression sleeve. On the other hand, an athlete who is attentive to the needs of his the lower forearm, in addition to the elbow joint, might consider using a longer compression sleeve.
Another determining factor when choosing a sleeve is the planned activity level. Not all sleeves offer the same level of compression, measured by the term mmHg (millimeter of mercury). Mild compression, denoted by a lower number, is sufficient for light physical activity like walking. Triathletes or basketball players may require a higher compression level to support the heavy physical activity performed.
How to Maintain Your Elbow Compression Sleeve
Since compression sleeves make such a significant impact on the success of athletes during physical activity, it is important to learn how to maintain and care for these special garments to ensure longevity and effectiveness.
Though these sleeves are made from durable materials, it is best to daily wash and dry the material to prevent a buildup of perspiration, bacteria, and dirt. Daily washing helps restore and maintain elasticity for optimum wear.
Choosing between machine-wash or hand-wash is personal preference when washing compression sleeves. If choosing to machine-wash the garments, it is best to wash the items in a gentle cycle with cooler water. Hand-washing the garments in cool water is another great option, as it does not permit heavy agitation that can stretch out the delicate, elastic fibers.
Another tip for ensuring the longevity of your compression sleeves is to allow your garments to air dry, as opposed to drying in an electric dryer. The heat from the dryer may weaken and damage the fibers over time. They should lie flat or be hung in indirect sunlight to gently wick away the moisture.