Pesky Knee Pain? Experts Say A Compression Sleeve Could Help Keep You Active

For knee support through the toughest workouts.

Common among runners, cyclists, lifters, and athletes alike, knee pain is extremely disruptive in any training regimen or day-to-day routine. Whether you're experiencing pain in your knees for the first time or you've dealt with chronic pain for years, it's as aggravating as it can be debilitating. While they won't get to the root of the problem, the best knee compression sleeves will help keep you moving and ease your pain. Wear them to get back on the court or up that flight of stairs, but it's best that you also work with an expert to find out what's causing your knee pain.

We've researched the options and rounded up the best knee compression sleeves of 2022, to keep you as comfortable as you can be. Below, experts explain how these compression sleeves work and answer the most frequently asked questions about knee pain relief.

How do compression sleeves work?

A tight piece of fabric that wraps around the knee, compression sleeves work by applying even pressure and providing support to the muscle and joints. To understand if this technique really works, we spoke with Ann Swanson P.T., DPT, doctor of physical therapy and board-certified orthopedic specialist.

"Ultimately, the goal of a compression sleeve is to improve functionality1 and help with pain2. While a knee sleeve can make you feel better day to day and help keep you active so you can build strength more comfortably, it will not change your mechanics or [treat] the root cause of the issue," says Swanson P.T., DPT.

She notes that compression sleeves are known to control swelling and improve blood flow. In fact, this study found that compression garments boosted recovery after strength training by increasing blood flow to the knee3. So if your doctor clears you for workouts but you're still feeling some pain (or you know you're prone to injury), knee compression sleeves could make a big difference.

How to choose.

Aside from narrowing down for a specific activity such as weight lifting or running, the most important aspect when finding the best knee compression sleeve is how it fits to your body. Swanson says the ultimate goal is a sense of support.

"The compression sleeve should not be so tight that it is uncomfortable or feels like it is limiting your movement. If you notice swelling above or below your sleeve, you might be using a sleeve that is too tight. Also, if you have sensitive skin, be mindful of the fabric you choose," she advises.

Swanson's biggest sleeve-shopping tip: "Know that the knee sleeve will not solve your problem, but it can be helpful in managing pain and keeping you moving. If you are experiencing pain, it is important to consult a physical therapist or your doctor to address potential strength deficits or improve movement patterns to create long-term pain relief."

Finding the best knee compression sleeve that's right for you might take some trial and error, but every option on this list has an easy return policy. Try on the sleeve for fit, and then test it for pain relief and support. If you feel like your movement is limited or the sleeve is not providing any relief, speak with your doctor to find something that will work better for you.

Our picks of the best knee compression sleeves of 2022:

If you’re someone whose arthritis isn’t stopping them from hitting the pavement, then this knee compression sleeve by Powerlix is for you. Its four-way compression design applies stable compression across the knee, providing sufficient support that won’t limit your range of motion, but will ease your pain. The fabric is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and breathable so you won’t have to worry about itchy or odorous knees. It’s also got a range of stylish colors to choose from. With silicone anti-slip gel strips, this sleeve stays in place even during the sweatiest workouts.

Specifically designed to evenly disperse pressure, this knee sleeve provides targeted relief with anatomically contoured pads—and the relief it provides to runners is worth the higher price point. The pressure points and lateral wings provide targeted stimuli which stabilize you as you move, and protect your knees against overuse and strain. With an air-knit fabric, these sleeves have a lightweight feel that will help you put in miles without irritation or chaffing.

If you’re a runner with knee pain, take it from this Amazon reviewer: “I wouldn't have finished my half marathon yesterday if not for this awesome knee sleeve. I haven't been able to run for more than 8 miles since being race-ready over a month ago. I bought this sleeve a week before the race and immediately felt relief and support.”

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