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Which Are The Best IT Band Syndrome Compression Sleeves?

IT band syndrome is a very common problem for runners and cyclists. One of the best ways to prevent and heal it is wearing a compression sleeve. But which products are the best for this purpose? Which are the best it band compression sleeves?

If you are in a Hurry: Best IT Band Syndrome Compression Sleeve

What is IT band syndrome and why does it develop with runners and cyclists?

IT Band Syndrome is a condition that arises from the overuse of the connective tissues that are located on the knee and outer thigh. It is also commonly referred to as Iliotibial Band Syndrome. The Iliotibial band runs on the outside portion of the thigh, starting at the pelvis and going all the way to the tibia.

Note that the important thing here is that it crosses not only the hip joint, but the knee joint as well. This is why this is such an important part of the body for runners and cyclists in particular. It helps provide some much-needed stability as the knee and hip joints flex and extend during periods of physical activity.

The issue is that runners and cyclists tend to use these parts of their body in more extreme ways than your average person. This leads to inflammation and irritation of the IT band. As the IT band travels back and forth, it essentially gets “overused” to the point where the outside part of the knee will feel pain whenever a runner’s heel strikes the ground.

Related: Compression shorts for glute injuries

How does an IT band syndrome compression sleeve work? Can they heal IT band syndrome?

A compression sleeve is a very specific type of elasticized garment that reduces the symptoms of a wide range of different conditions common to runners and cyclists. It’s a garment designed to provide as much extra support to your body as possible – which is exactly what it needs if you’re feeling pain related to IT Band Syndrome.

A compression sleeve will apply pressure to the IT band itself, which can be an effective way to relieve the pain felt from IT Band Syndrome. Not only that, but it can also be a viable way to help prevent this condition altogether, which is why they are recommended to be worn whenever you run or cycle at all, even if you currently don’t have any symptoms.

Related: Compression sleeves for shin splints

How can compression sleeves prevent IT band syndrome?

Compression sleeves work so well because they’re designed to warm, support and compress the thigh, knee and IT band area when you’re engaged in any type of high intensity athletic activity like running or cycling. In addition to enhancing the flow of blood throughout the body, an IT Band compression sleeve can also be a great way to encourage quicker healing as your body naturally recovers from what you just put it through.

Related: How long should you wear compression sleeves?

How do compression sleeves help you recover from IT band syndrome?

Speaking of recovery, compression for IT Band Syndrome is a pain-free way to deal with the problem. This is an issue that could easily spread to other areas of the body if you’re not careful. If you’re the type of runner or cyclist who regularly experiences groin strains, groin pulls, hip flexor strains, hip arthritis and similar types of issues, these problems could absolutely be related to IT Band Syndrome without you realizing it.

So not only can a compression sleeve help with your short-term recovery from IT Band Syndrome itself. It can also help stop other small problems today before they have a chance to become much bigger (and more painful) ones down the road.

Not only that, but compression sleeves can also just support your body and make you a better and more effective athlete. In addition to encouraging quicker healing by improving the flow of blood throughout your body, compression sleeves can be a great way to improve endurance. They help you recover from a particularly difficult workout. Compression sleeves also act as a preventative measure for all of the common types of upper leg issues that runners and cyclists usually go through.

What are the features to look for when selecting a great compression sleeve for IT band syndrome?

If you want to make sure that you pick out the right compression sleeve to meet your own needs, there are a few important things you’ll want to keep in mind.

Many high quality compression sleeves come with a specialized compression zone, allowing them to essentially mimic the effects of kinesiology tape. So if you’re trying to recover from (or prevent) IT Band Syndrome you’ll want to invest in a compression sleeve that offers this level of lower leg support. These sleeves are also great at dealing with shin splint.

Likewise, you’ll want to read the product label carefully and make sure that you’re buying sleeves with the right level of compression to begin with. If you’re totally new to the world of compression sleeves, you’ll likely want to try a pair with a lower level of compression just to find what works best for you. If you’re still experiencing pain or discomfort associated with IT Band Syndrome, you can increase the compression level as needed. Generally speaking, the most common compression level is anywhere within the range of 20 to 30 mmHg.

Finally, make sure that you actually buy compression sleeves designed with runners and cyclists in mind. While you’ll absolutely be able to get away with a more “generic” pair, they’ll also lack some of the performance and comfort features that will definitely come in handy in the future. It’s better to buy the right IT Band compression sleeve now than regret making a mistake later on.

Conclusion

There are a lot of compression sleeves on the market. The best it band syndrome compression sleeve use targeted compression, anywhere between 20-30 mm Hg. These types of compression for IT band syndrome will increase the blood flow, help you perform better and end the pain even before it starts.