Study on the Physiological Effect of Compression stockings for sports

In spite of an increasing use of elastic stockings in the field of sports, the paucity of reports on physiological and morphological responses to wearing elastic stockings prompted us to investigate it. The purpose of the present investigation was to clarify the physiological effects of wearing elastic stockings for sports on cardiorespiratory responses, peripheral circulation, leg circumference etc. during exercise. Data were collected through a questionnaire, which was then compared against previously reported results. The results of the questionnaire revealed that many of the subjects were amateur runners, who exercised as a hobby or for recreational purposes. In addition, many of the subjects have some experience using compression stockings, holding the view that it aids the recovery of fatigue, promotes blood circulation, and improves their competitive power. On the other hand, although elastic stockings increased suppression around the lower leg, physiological effects demonstrated no significant differences in cardiorespiratory responses or peripheral circulation. It is concluded that wearing elastic stockings for sports does not a large effect on respiratory responses to intense exercise in healthy young people. Questions still remain about the physiological role of elastic stockings, but at this stage, there is no alternative but to wait for future research.