Effects of compression garments on skeletal muscle physiology, performance and recovery in young healthy adults : a systematic review

• Main Author: Liew, Yi Hui
• Other Authors: Swarup Mukherjee
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2018
• Subjects: DRNTU::Science
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/73885
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

Introduction: Compression garments (CGs) are gaining popularity globally with both athletes and non-athletes. Manufacturers claims that they have numerous benefits which the current scientific literature provide equivocal results. Aim: To identify and evaluate the current literature on the effects of CG on skeletal muscle physiology, performance and recovery in young healthy adults. Methods: Search of PubMed, Web of Science and SPORTDiscus databases for relevant studies from February 2008 to February 2018. Results: Eight studies (n = 108) were selected to have met search criteria. Most studies show no significant effects of skeletal muscle outcomes when compared to control groups. All reported results on blood lactate concentration either during or after exercise. Conclusion: Compression garments have minimal beneficial effects on young healthy adults, but can be worn for individual comfort and belief. Future studies can use more recreational or sedentary subjects for more variations among studies’ subjects.