EFFECTS OF LOWER BODY COMPRESSION GARMENT IN MUSCLE OSCILLATION AND TISSULAR INJURY DURING INTENSE EXERCISE

Abstract

This study meant to evaluate if compression garments have a protector effect on muscular injury. Nine active males participated in the study ([mean ± SD] age 27.7 ± 10.9 years; height 176.8 ± 3.6 cm; weight 76.1 ± 6.1 kg). Subjects performed a 40 min running test at the velocity of their anaerobic threshold with a negative steep of –10% wearing shorts with compression in one leg and no compression in the other leg using a balanced, randomised design. Muscular displacement was evaluated using a 3D analysis. Tissue damage was assessed by a muscular biopsy performed 48h after the running test. Results indicate a significantly higher muscular displacement in the leg with no compression and an increased muscular damage. This indicates that compression shorts have a protective effect on muscle.