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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Effects of a fatiguing run in popliteal vein flow using sports compression socks

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Introduction Although the use of sports compression socks is becoming more popular, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding the helpfulness of these garments for physical movement or sports use. One of the main effects attributed to the use of compression sock is the facilitation of venous blood flow return which is thought to improve performance and recovery. Methodology In this study, 10 trained runners performed 2 treadmill running tests for 30 min to 75% of their maximum aerobic speed, without sports socks (control) and with different sports compression socks. We measured popliteal vein flow volume before and after each test using magnetic resonance imaging. Results and discussion No differences were observed between the conditions before the test ( p > 0.05), but there were differences between the high compression socks condition and the control after the test ( p < 0.05). Exercise increased the venous flow in both legs in the control ( p < 0.001) as well as in the right leg with the high compression sock type ( p < 0.01) but there were no differences in the behaviour of the different sock compression levels ( p > 0.05). Conclusion The use of sports compression socks with different levels of compression does not increase the volume of venous blood return via the popliteal vein in trained athletes after running for 30 min.