Thigh & hamstring supports

Thigh supports are used for injuries and strains to the hamstring, the quadriceps and the groin. Additionally they may be used for repetitive strain injuries, teninitis and some chronic degenerative conditions. They can also be worn to prevent injuries, or to reduce the likelihood of a reoccurrence of a previous injury.

Most thigh supports come in the form of a sleeve that is available in different circumferences to fit people of differing sizes. The typical span of sizes range from 18 inches to over 30 inches. The fitting measurement (circumference of the thigh) can be taken either halfway up the thigh, or at the broadest part of the thigh, depending upon the supplier's buying advice.

Most sleeves are made from an elasticized fabric (e.g. neoprene) that will be 1.5mm to 3mm in thickness and that will provide mild compression, therapeutic warmth and breathability. An external lining like nylon is often used to make the sleeve more comfortable.

Some sleeves will have Velcro (hook and loop) straps to enable the fit and tightness to be customised further. There may be as few as two, or as many as six fastening on a single sleeve.

How they work

Thigh supports work by providing consistent compression around the thigh. This compression, combined with heat retention, keeps the injury or weakness supported and warm. This in turn can improve circulation and speed up rehabilitation to the damaged area whilst protecting the injury as it recovers.

Like most supports, a thigh sleeves will add a feeling of reassurance to the wearer which makes it easier to continue with everyday activities or sports.

Many sportspeople wear thigh sleeves for the benefits that they can provide in preventing muscle strains when the muscles are still cold. The passive heat therapy that a thigh support can offer allows the muscles to warm up and retain their heat much more rapidly.

Thigh support sleeves are washable.

Elastic wrap

An elastic wrap is an alternative to a sleeve and it has the advantage that the compression can be varied specifically for the individual using it. Furthermore, the compression can be increased in specific zones simply by applying different degrees of pressure to the areas that require it the most.

Wraps (which look like broad tape) can be washed and reused.

Support half tights

If compressive support is required for the thighs of both legs, then the best option will usually be a pair of half support tights.

These support tights will start just above the knee and extend to a waistband. This means that they provide complete support over the full length of the thigh. A further advantage is that they will not slip down the leg, twist or lose their position. Many athletes (male and female) wear these tights during sport.

Groin support

Various groin supports are available and they generally take the form of a single "half tight" with a sleeve that starts halfway down the thigh and runs up the entire length of the leg of the affected side. The sleeve then wraps around the groin area (like underpants) providing continuous support from the upper leg to the waistband.

Supports of this type provide some reassuring compression along with heat therapy that should speed up recovery from an injury.

See this knee support page for information about knee sleeves and braces.

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