The Effects of a Compression Garment on Lower Body Kinematics and Kinetics During a Drop Vertical Jump in Female Collegiate Athletes

BACKGROUND: The use of compression garments has spread rapidly among athletes, largely because of marketing and perceived benefits. Upon review, it is unclear whether compression garments have a significant effect on performance and recovery, although they have been found to enhance proprioception. Further, it is reported that compression of the knee joint improves both dynamic and static balance. However, there is currently a paucity of data demonstrating the effects of compression garments on the biomechanical risk factors of knee-related injuries in female athletes. PURPOSE: To evaluate the ability of a directional compression garment to alter hip and knee kinematics and kinetics during a drop vertical jump (DVJ) in healthy college-aged female athletes. STUDY DESIGN: Controlled laboratory study. METHODS: A sample of 23 healthy female collegiate athletes (mean age, 19.6 ± 1.3 years) participating in jumping sports (volleyball, basketball, and soccer) was included in this analysis. Each athlete performed 2 sets of 3 DVJs with and without a directional compression garment. Three-dimensional hip and knee kinematics and kinetics were collected using a standard Helen-Hayes 29-marker set, which was removed and reapplied after the garment was fitted, as well as 8 visible-red cameras and 2 force platforms. Each participant was tested in a single session. RESULTS: Hip abduction range of motion was significantly reduced from 12.6° ± 5.5° to 10.2° ± 4.6° (P = .002) while performing DVJs without and with the compression garment, respectively. No statistically significant differences between conditions were found in peak hip abduction, knee valgus range of motion, peak valgus, peak hip abduction moment, and peak knee valgus moment. CONCLUSION: The results of this study show that wearing compression garments does have minimal effects on lower body mechanics during landing from a DVJ, partially supporting the idea that compression garments could acutely alter movement patterns associated with the knee injury risk. However, further research should focus on muscle activation patterns and adaptations over time. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The use of specifically designed compression garments could aid in the prevention of knee injuries by inducing changes in jumping mechanics.