The How’s and Why’s Behind Compression Therapy
If you’ve ever finished a long run, tough workout, or even a long day on your feet and wished you could hit “refresh” on your legs, compression therapy may be the answer.
This recovery method, trusted by professional athletes and everyday movers alike, uses NormaTec compression boots to deliver a massage-like experience that supports circulation, reduces soreness, and helps your body bounce back faster. But how does it actually work—and why is it so effective? Let’s break it down.
How Compression Therapy Works
Compression therapy uses air-filled sleeves that rhythmically inflate and deflate in a wave-like sequence along the legs. This motion isn’t random—it’s designed to mimic the natural pumping action of your muscles.
Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes:
Improved circulation: The sequential squeezing helps push deoxygenated blood and waste products—like lactate, hydrogen ions, and carbon dioxide—out of your legs.
Faster recovery: Once waste is cleared, oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood flows back in, fueling tissue repair and reducing soreness.
Lymphatic support: The lymphatic system plays a big role in immune health and fluid balance. Compression assists this drainage, which can reduce swelling and inflammation.
In short, compression therapy accelerates your body’s natural recovery process, leaving you with fresher, lighter legs.
Why Compression Therapy Matters
Athletes aren’t the only ones who benefit from this treatment. Whether you’re logging miles, lifting weights, or standing at work all day, the science behind compression can make a difference.
Reduced soreness & stiffness → quicker bounce-back between workouts.
Enhanced performance → fresher legs allow higher-quality training sessions.
Injury prevention → better circulation and reduced swelling can lower the risk of overuse injuries.
Everyday wellness → ideal for people who sit or stand for long hours, travelers dealing with swelling, or anyone wanting to improve circulation.
Research supports these benefits, showing that compression therapy can improve perceived recovery, decrease markers of muscle damage, and shorten the time it takes to get back to peak performance.
What to Expect in a Session
At Optimum Health, we use NormaTec compression recliners to give you the best recovery experience possible. Each session takes place in a private compression therapy room where you can fully relax.
Session length: Choose from 30-minute or 60-minute sessions.
Setup: You’ll slip into the NormaTec boots while reclining comfortably.
Experience: Sit back, enjoy the wave-like compression, and even catch up on a show—the room is equipped with a TV to help you unwind.
Most people describe the experience as deeply relaxing, and many notice an immediate difference in how their legs feel—lighter, less sore, and ready for what’s next.
UFC Heavyweight Fighter, Tommy Petersen, uses our Compression Boots weekly to stay at the top of his game.
Making Compression Therapy Part of Your Routine
Like any recovery tool, consistency matters. Here’s how to get the most out of it:
Athletes in training: 2–3 times weekly or after long runs and hard workouts.
General wellness: 1–2 times weekly to reduce swelling, boost circulation, or shake off daily fatigue.
For best results: Pair with other recovery methods such as contrast therapy, red light therapy, or chiropractic care for a well-rounded routine.
The Bottom Line
Compression therapy isn’t just a trend—it’s a simple, effective, and science-backed way to recover better and feel your best. Whether you’re chasing new athletic goals or just looking for a way to ease sore legs after a long day, this tool can give your body the boost it needs.
