Some of the greatest runners wear compression socks to help build up endurance. These medical socks are available at any running store or drug store. Though some people believe these socks help runners improve efficiency, there are a variety of benefits from using compression socks. Keep in mind, running efficiency gains will vary from runner to runner.
Use
Compression socks are used to treat a variety of medical issues. Edema, lymph edema, phlebitis, varicose veins, spider veins and deep vein thrombosis are all treated with compression socks. Doctors may suggest that patients wear compression socks to increase blood flow in their legs, and they are available anywhere that medical supplies are sold. Proponents think the increased blood flow helps runners, too.
Blood
When exercising or at rest blood pools in the bottom of the legs. Compression socks improve the flow, helping the blood to move better from the bottom to the top of the leg and throughout the rest of the body. The socks produce an overall endurance improvement because not only does the blood move better throughout the body, it is cleaner blood as well because as it flows better it gets reoxygenated in the lungs more quickly.
Lactic Acids
Lactic acids increase when a runner wears compression socks. Not only does the blood flow increase, but the lactic acids do as well. When this is increased, runners improve muscle efficiency. However, the socks are most important after the race when the muscles are at rest.
Length
Research is conducted often on compression socks. Researchers found that it does not matter the length of the race. Short-distance and long-term running both benefit slightly from a runner wearing compression socks. It's agreed that it's best to wear them when resting after a race so blood flows and does not pool.
Tags: blood flow, compression socks, compression socks, after race, blood move, blood move better