Coretech® vs. Regular Compression: What Makes It Medical Grade?

Compression garments have become a staple in both athletic and medical communities, offering benefits ranging from enhanced performance to injury prevention. However, not all compression wear is created equal. Medical-grade compression garments, such as Supacore’s Coretech® shorts, stand out due to their specific design features and therapeutic benefits.

Understanding Coretech® Compression

Supacore’s Coretech® compression shorts are engineered with patented technology that integrates a built-in sacroiliac (SI) joint belt directly into the waistband. This design provides targeted compression and stability to the pelvis and core, mimicking the body's deep core stabilizing muscles. The shorts also feature Ribtech® body-mapped ribbing over key muscle groups, delivering micro-massaging effects that resemble kinesiology taping. With a high/firm medical-grade compression level of 25 mmHg, Coretech® shorts are registered as a medical device with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia and are endorsed by the Australian Chiropractors Association.

Distinguishing Features of Medical-Grade Compression

1. Compression Levels

Compression garments are rated based on the pressure they exert, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Medical-grade compression typically ranges from 20 to 30 mmHg, suitable for conditions like varicose veins and mild lymphedema . In contrast, over-the-counter compression wear usually offers lower pressure levels, providing general support without therapeutic benefits.(nypost.com)

2. Targeted Support

Medical-grade compression garments often incorporate features that provide targeted support to specific body areas. For instance, Coretech® shorts include an integrated SI joint belt, offering enhanced pelvic stability, which is beneficial for individuals with pelvic instability or related conditions.

3. Therapeutic Benefits

Beyond general muscle support, medical-grade compression wear aids in reducing swelling, improving circulation, and accelerating recovery. These garments are designed to address specific medical conditions and are often recommended by healthcare professionals.(share.upmc.com)

Benefits of Medical-Grade Compression Shorts

1. Enhanced Circulation and Recovery

Medical-grade compression garments facilitate blood flow, preventing venous insufficiency and reducing the risk of blood clots. Enhanced circulation promotes tissue oxygenation and accelerates healing .(sleevestars.com)

2. Reduced Muscle Oscillation

By providing consistent pressure, compression shorts stabilize muscles, reducing oscillation during physical activity. This stabilization minimizes muscle fatigue and the risk of injury .(vaia.com, bodyhelix.com)

3. Improved Proprioception

Compression garments enhance proprioceptive feedback, improving body awareness and coordination. This can lead to better movement efficiency and reduced injury risk .

References:

• Sleeve Stars. (n.d.). The Benefits of Medical-Grade Compression Clothing. Retrieved from https://sleevestars.com/blogs/posts/the-benefits-of-medical-grade-compression-clothing(sleevestars.com)

• National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2019). Compression Garments for Medical Therapy and Sports. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6404358/(pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)

• Vaia. (n.d.). Compression Garments: Benefits & Performance. Retrieved from https://www.vaia.com/en-us/explanations/sports-science/sport-and-recovery/compression-garments/(vaia.com)

• Body Helix. (n.d.). 5 Benefits of Compression for Injury Prevention. Retrieved from https://www.bodyhelix.com/blogs/injury-prevention/5-benefits-of-compression-for-injury-prevention(bodyhelix.com)

• SRC Health. (n.d.). Compression Socks and Shorts: 7 Benefits of These Garments. Retrieved from https://srchealth.com/blogs/news/compression-socks-compression-shorts-7-everyday-benefits-of-compression-garments-for-everybody(srchealth.com)