Compression therapy uses inflatable boots (or sleeves for arms) that sequentially compress your limbs from extremities toward your core. This mimics the muscle contractions that normally pump blood and lymph through your body.

Originally developed for medical use (preventing blood clots in bedridden patients), compression therapy has been adopted by athletes worldwide. Professional sports teams, Olympic training centers, and fitness enthusiasts use compression boots for faster recovery.

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The mechanism is simple: sequential compression pushes blood and lymphatic fluid toward your heart. This flushes metabolic waste (like lactic acid), reduces swelling, and delivers fresh oxygenated blood to tired muscles. The result is faster recovery and less soreness.

Benefits of Compression Therapy

Enhanced Circulation

Compression mechanically moves blood through your legs, overcoming the resistance gravity creates. This is especially valuable for those who sit or stand all day, when blood can pool in lower extremities.

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Faster Muscle Recovery

By flushing metabolic waste and delivering nutrients, compression accelerates muscle recovery. Post-workout soreness diminishes faster. You can train more frequently with less downtime.

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Reduced Swelling and Edema

Compression moves excess fluid out of tissue. For swollen legs, post-flight puffiness, or edema from any cause, compression therapy provides relief.

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Lymphatic Drainage

Your lymphatic system has no pump—it relies on muscle movement to circulate. Compression therapy stimulates lymphatic flow, supporting immune function and detoxification.

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Decreased Muscle Soreness

DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) makes the days after intense training uncomfortable. Compression therapy significantly reduces DOMS, letting you feel better faster.

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Improved Flexibility

Flushing metabolic waste and improving circulation loosens tight muscles. Many users report improved range of motion after compression sessions.

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Who Should Try Compression?

Compression therapy benefits:

• Athletes of all levels (runners, cyclists, CrossFitters, weekend warriors)

• Those who stand or sit all day (healthcare workers, office workers, service industry)

• Travelers recovering from long flights

• People with circulation concerns or leg fatigue

• Post-workout recovery seekers wanting to reduce soreness

• Anyone preparing for athletic events (pre-event circulation boost)

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Considerations: Those with active blood clots or severe peripheral artery disease should avoid compression therapy. We screen all clients before treatment.

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What to Expect During Your Session

You'll relax in a comfortable position while wearing inflatable boots that cover your feet and legs (or arm sleeves if treating upper body). The boots inflate sequentially—starting at your feet and working up toward your core—then deflate and repeat.

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Sessions last 20-30 minutes. The sensation is like a deep, rhythmic massage. Most people find it deeply relaxing. You can read, use your phone, or simply close your eyes.

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For athletic recovery, we recommend sessions after workouts. For general wellness, 1-2 sessions per week maintains circulation and reduces leg fatigue.

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Our Compression Technology

Cryo Body Works uses professional-grade pneumatic compression systems with customizable pressure zones and patterns. Our equipment is the same quality used by professional sports teams. Staff can adjust settings based on your comfort and treatment goals.

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Learn more about our equipment.

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Services That Pair With Compression

• Cryotherapy Austin: Cold therapy reduces inflammation while compression flushes waste. This combination is a staple recovery stack for serious athletes.

• Infrared Sauna: Sauna then compression creates a powerful circulation and detox session. Sweat out toxins, then flush them through the lymphatic system.

• Cold Plunge: Contrast therapy (cold) followed by compression maximizes circulation and recovery. Many athletes use this combination post-training.

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Compression Therapy FAQ

How does compression therapy work?

Inflatable chambers wrap around your legs (or arms) and inflate sequentially, starting at the extremities and moving toward your core. This mechanical compression pushes blood and lymphatic fluid through your vessels, improving circulation and flushing metabolic waste.

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Is compression therapy just for athletes?

No—anyone benefits. If you stand or sit all day, have swollen legs, travel frequently, or simply want better circulation, compression therapy helps. Athletes love it for recovery, but the benefits extend far beyond sports.

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How often should I use compression?

For athletic recovery, after every intense workout is ideal. For general wellness, 1-2 sessions per week maintains circulation. Those with chronic leg issues may benefit from more frequent sessions. It's safe for daily use.

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Does compression therapy hurt?

Not at all. The sensation is similar to a rhythmic massage—firm but comfortable. Most people find it relaxing. You can adjust pressure to your comfort level.

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Ready to Try Compression in Austin?

Whether you're an athlete seeking faster recovery or simply someone with tired legs, compression therapy delivers. Flush waste. Boost circulation. Feel better.