Compression creates warmth throughout the muscles, which directly prevents muscle strain and fatigue. This causes a substantial reduction in the risk of injury. In fact, a recent literature review illustrated that athletes employing compression wear or equipment experienced a 64% increase in the reduction of ankle sprain risk and an overall decrease in injury (Bellows & Wong, 2018). While traction may depict reduced risk as opposed to no intervention, compression employs a more significant decrease in risk of injury. While compression has the potential to be ineffective after its implementation, it does not possess all the health risks that are possible with traction, such as damage to tissue, infection, or nerve injury.
Besides that, compression allows for improved circulation. Blood circulation is benefitted by tighter apparel and allows for reduced lactic acid, which can contribute to excessive soreness. Similarly, oxygen flow throughout the body, with extremities receiving substantial amounts, is also improved and allows for increased endurance. The collective effects this has on the body allows individuals to experience less risk of exhaustion, sprains, injury, and soreness. Though the study found that compression may not alter injury to extremities, this is potentially due to inadequate bracing wear. Compression equipment has the potential to reduce swelling, thereby limiting pain and injury.
Especially relevant to knee sprains and injuries, compression can reduce the effects of muscle oscillation. In sports or activities in which impact between the foot and the ground can be highly risky, compression is necessary to reduce vibrations. As such, injuries that come as a result of heightened muscle oscillation can be prevented or minimized with appropriate compression equipment or apparel. Additionally, the likelihood of compression tool misuse is low, and in the case that it is inadequately utilized, the severity of an injury is distinctly smaller than traction intervention.
Reference
Bellows, R., & Wong, C. K. (2018). The effect of bracing and balance training on ankle sprain incidence among athletes: A systematic review with meta-analysis. The International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy, 13(3), 379-389. Web.