Calf sleeves or braces fit around your calves just below the knees, helping improve blood circulation. As well as this, they also provide your calf muscles with continuous support, helping with mobility.
Calf support braces help manage calf pain
Calf injuries, including calf strain or pulled calf muscles, are common leg or calf problems that may hurt anyone. However, people involved in strenuous activities requiring repetitive calf movements may be more prone to injuries. People who regularly practice or participate in tennis, football, racquetball, or even running are vulnerable to leg or calf problems. As well as this, people who have a sedentary lifestyle or are involved in prolonged time standing or sitting may face circulation problems in their legs. These circulation problems may lead to chronic problems, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Wearing calf supports helps you in a number of conditions. For example, they provide your calf muscles with complete protection, helping avoid further damage following an injury. They are best at providing enough compression, helping improve blood circulation. The improved blood circulation in your lower legs speeds up recovery. If you have been through surgical treatments, wearing calf compression may help you improve healing.
Wear calf braces to prevent calf injury
If you are involved in high-contact sports or occupations where you are vulnerable to injuries, wearing calf sleeves or supports is recommended. These sleeves or supports protect your calf muscles from external forces. As well as this, they help keep your muscles active and improve blood circulation, helping perform well without any injury.
Types of calf compression sleeves
Calf support braces or compression sleeves are classified based on their compression levels. The followings are the types of calf support braces or compressions sleeves based on their compression levels:
- Medical grade 1: These are mild to moderate or even firm-level compression sleeves (15 – 30 mmHg). These calf supports or sleeves are usually recommended for daily wear, sports, and travel.
- Medical grade 2: These are extra firm-level compression sleeves (30 – 40 mmHg). These are best for daily wear, sports recovery, and medical recovery.
- Medical grade 3: These are prescription-level compression sleeves (40 – 50 mmHg). These are best for chronic conditions, such as DVT and severe swelling, such as oedema.
A guide on wearing calf supports
Wearing too-tight compression sleeves may cut blood circulation or cause skin problems. However, when loose-fitted, they are unable to provide sufficient compression. Moreover, wearing compression sleeves for a prolonged time may also be harmful. Ensure that you wear them under the guidance of your GP.