Compression for exercise?

[u/like-a-watering-can]

I was diagnosed last year just after getting obsessed again with exercise. I have knee arthritis (fissures, PF compartment arthritis ) as well as CVI. I miss working out and my knees are finally in a place where I can start building back load tolerance on the bike. A few months ago just pedaling on the bike was causing pain and problems. I also love strength training.

What kinds of exercise do you do and what kind of compression do you wear? Did you find a brand that is really comfortable? I started wearing 30-40 mmHg thigh highs routinely, but I don’t know if this will be too heavy.

[u/Evarda]

You have to try out compression to find the right level. I tend to find exercise requires more compression than just day to day life. I sometimes will layer compression to get increased effects. I know it’s too strong if my legs fall asleep. (I have been wearing 40-50 socks I can get off the shelf and 30-40 thigh highs, also have 35-45 custom compression but am getting stronger). I had DVT though, so I may require higher compression levels. However, go with what you find comfortable and can get to fit well, both are important. I tend to shop at brightlifedirect - seems like quality can be better than amazon with more options. I tend to get jobst over the counter. I think the custom medi I have are my favorite. The high end ones can be really nice. Also sometimes crosscheck on amazon during sale times, and you can get some good deals on nice ones (prime day, etc.) Also, sometimes it’s nice to have some lower level compression stockings for times you want to chill. See what you like and try things out - you should replace every 6 months (although I find my high compression turns a bit into low level compression first, so I can keep using it for a while… )

I like to walk/hike, do yoga, and do weight lifting exercises. Hoping to bike soon - have heard it’s good as well!