The value of graduated compression socks as a post-exercise recovery modality in long distance runners
Year: 2011
Type: dissertation
Study design: Clinical Trial
Abstract: The purpose of this two part investigation was to examine the efficacy of graduated compressive knee‐high socks (CS) to modulate the recovery of muscle damage and athletic performance in well‐trained distance runners after an actual 56 km ultra‐marathon. In the first part of the research (part I) the objective was to compare the use of graduated compression socks and a placebo sock during a 56 km ultra‐distance event. The next part of the investigation (part II) endeavoured to establish the optimal time to wear graduated compression socks i.e. during or after exercise. In part I, 40 competitive male distance runners (age: 42 8 years; VO2max: 50 8 mL.kg‐1.min‐1; height: 180 7 cm and body mass: 80 10 kg) were randomly divided into an experimental (EXP) and control (C) group. The EXP group wore compression socks (20 – 30 mmHg) during the 56 km race as well as for the subsequent 72 hours, while the C group wore a placebo sock (0 mmHg). In part II, 43 competitive male distance runners (age: 41 8 years; VO2max: 49 6 mL.kg‐ 1.min‐1; height: 178 6 cm and body mass: 76 11 kg) were randomly divided into three treatment groups CSRun, CSRec and CSRun&Rec. In both parts recovery was assessed by measuring serum creatine kinase (CK), skeletal myoglobin (s‐Mgb), C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), lower limb circumferences (cmf), blood lactate (LT), Visual analogue scales (VAS), running economy (RE) and a peak power (PP) for muscle function.
Author: Karen Welman
Language: English
Subfield: Physiology (medical)
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W129802478