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Leg compression machines can improve one’s circulation by intermittently squeezing the leg veins, then releasing the pressure. These machines work similarly to a blood pressure cuff, only they wrap around the legs instead of the arms.
To determine the best leg compression machines, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on over 50 products on the market, ranking them based on cost, the number of mode options, the number of intensity options, the versatility of the leg garments and more. Read on to explore our top picks.
Note: All product prices are accurate as of the publication date.
This lightweight, portable massager is designed to provide fast-acting relief for sore feet, ankles and calves. Users can control heat, massage mode and intensity all from the handheld controller and store the massager in its travel bag when not in use. Vive Health offers free shipping for this massager, as well as a 60-day, money-back guarantee for customers who aren’t pleased with the product and a lifetime warranty.
This lower leg and foot compression sleeve from Lifepro can help circulation issues at an affordable price. One LCD backlit remote lets you toggle between intensities and massage modes, and the sleeves can fit a variety of leg sizes with Velcro closures. The sleeves are slim, and the device can be stored in its own carrying case—which is included with a purchase.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
This Lifepro device combines varying degrees of heat (though only to the feet), compression and massage to boost circulation and increase range of motion and flexibility, according to the manufacturer. Users remain in control of the temperature and intensity with an easy-to-use remote control. This product comes with a lifetime warranty.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
This full leg massager can accommodate a range of users with its leg extension pieces that support a thigh circumference up to 36.5 inches a calf circumference up to 28.5 inches. It also offers 15 massage technique options, as well as a slim, easy-to-use remote that includes preset timed massage settings. The inner lining of the leg garments is washable, and the massager features three heat levels, which can warm both the calves and feet.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
Whereas many compression sleeves target the calf exclusively, this device wraps around and provides compression therapy to the entire leg. The massager provides heat and massage therapy as well, including preset timed sessions for those who want to sit back and relax. It also comes with a lifetime warranty.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
This boot-style massager from Quinear targets the toes, feet, ankles and calves, and its removable and machine-washable leg liners make it a hygienic option for multiple users under the same roof. The company claims the massager can help provide relief for restless legs and alleviate swelling, soreness and poor circulation.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
This device offers compression for both the upper and lower leg, as well as heat therapy for the knees and feet (but not the calves). The sleeves have a sturdy, tear-free construction and can adjust to fit larger leg sizes. The manufacturer also provides a lifetime warranty and live customer support.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
If you’re experiencing pain, stiffness, swelling or other issues in your lower legs or feet, this Cincom massager may offer you some relief. With two heat levels, targeted massage modes (for the feet and calves) and a Velcro sleeve design and extenders that accommodate calf circumferences up to 28.5 inches, this massager can address a range of ailments and suit an array of body types. The device can also be disassembled quickly for easy cleaning.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
This compression device comes in two parts—thigh sleeves and lower leg and foot sleeves. You can use one element at a time or both sleevest together. The thigh sleeves can also fit around the upper arm to provide upper body compression therapy. Unlike many of the devices we analyzed, this one from Renpho can apply heat to both the calves and feet.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
In addition to compression, this Fit King massager gives you access to 27 massage techniques and three heat levels that can provide 360-degree relief for the calves, ankles and feet, according to the company. It also includes a 20-minute auto-shutoff function, so you don’t have to worry about the machine running longer than recommended. Fit King offers a one-year warranty for this device.
Have you considered Vive Health Calf and Foot Compression Massager?
An all-rounded leg massager with handheld controller that helps soothe the feet by promoting faster muscle recovery. Here’s why we chose it:
Features 2 heat function to provide warmth for your calves and feet
Made with high-quality and breathable mesh and flannel for ultimate comfort
Easily change sizes using velcro straps
To identify the best leg compression machines, the Forbes Health editorial team analyzed data on over 50 products on the market, ranking them based on:
Leg compression machines—called intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) machines in the medical community—are sleeves or cuffs with air chambers that are worn around the legs and, occasionally, the feet. At certain intervals, air pumps through connector tubes and inflates the sleeves, squeezing your legs similar to the way a blood pressure cuff works on your upper arm. This squeezing motion forces blood through the veins all the way to the heart. When the sleeve deflates, blood flows back to the legs. These devices help blood move more efficiently through the veins. They also can help the body release substances that prevent blood clots.
Depending on the device, there may be one or multiple air chambers and precise, customizable compression that occurs at a fixed pressure and interval. The device may cover the entire leg or just the lower part of the leg.
Most leg compression machines fit around your leg and are fastened with Velcro and additional snap closures. The device should fit snugly but not be painfully tight; be sure you can wiggle a finger between the device and your leg. Next, you connect the air pressure hoses to the control unit and set the intensity of the compression, as well as any heat or massage options. Sit comfortably without crossing your legs while using the machine. The sleeves can be cumbersome and affect your mobility, so to prevent tripping and falling, don’t try to walk while wearing the sleeves.
Leg compression machines can be very effective in supporting blood flow and reducing the risk of blood clots in certain situations.
In a 2017 study in the European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, people who used a leg compression machine after total knee replacement surgery had a 10% relative risk reduction of deep vein thrombosis (DVT)[1]Liu P, Liu J, Chen L, Xia K, Wu X. Intermittent pneumatic compression devices combined with anticoagulants for prevention of symptomatic deep vein thrombosis after total Knee Arthroplasty: A pilot study. Therapeutics and Clinical Risk Management. 2017;13:179-183. . DVT is a condition in which a blood clot develops in the deep veins of the body—usually the legs. In addition to causing pain and discomfort, a DVT can become deadly if the clot breaks away and travels to the lungs (which is called a pulmonary embolism). DVTs affect up to 2% of all hospitalized patients[2]Deep Vein Thrombosis. Mayo Clinic. Accessed 2/13/2022. .
Leg compression machines can also be a valuable treatment for lymphedema, a condition in which lymph fluid drains into the soft tissues of the body (usually the arms and legs), causing swelling. One study conducted on people with lower leg lymphedema found 90% of those treated with a particular leg compression device experienced “significant” reduction in leg volume[3]Muluk SC, Hirsch AT, Taffe EC. Pneumatic Compression Device Treatment of Lower Extremity Lymphedema Elicits Improved Limb Volume and Patient-reported Outcomes. European Journal of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery. 2013;46(4):480-487. .
“The risks of intermittent pneumatic compression are minimal but include discomfort and skin abrasion or irritation,” says Michael Go, M.D., a vascular surgeon at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. “They’re easily managed by removing the devices and only wearing them while immobilized or in bed,” he adds.
Sequential Compression Therapy At The Push Of A Button
Vive Health's Leg Compression machine offer different modes, all while helping you improve circulation and blood flow to provide pain relief. This machine will come in handy pre or post workout!
The right compression intensity for you depends on your doctor’s recommendation and the condition for which you’re using the leg compression device. Opting for a device that offers varied intensity levels can make it easier to find a level that feels comfortable and works for your condition.
Ideally, you should be measured to determine the right sleeve length or cuff circumference for you. The leg compression devices we reviewed come with one-size-fits-all sleeves, and some come with extenders to widen and/or elongate the sleeves. If you’re shorter or taller than the average person, you might want to look for a device sized for you specifically. Some manufacturers offer small, medium or large fits.
Many leg compression devices come with Velcro closures, so you can adjust the fit easily. It’s important that the device fits snugly, but not be so tight that it’s uncomfortable. If you have larger legs, look for one with extenders. Some with foot compression sleeves have stitches you can snip to accommodate a wider foot.
Some of the models we reviewed are powered by batteries as well as an AC adapter, so you can use them away from an electric outlet. Many weigh just a few pounds, are foldable and come with their own carrying case as well.
Sequential Compression Therapy At The Push Of A Button
Vive Health's Leg Compression machine offer different modes, all while helping you improve circulation and blood flow to provide pain relief.
Leg compression machines are particularly beneficial for people who:
While active people often use leg compression machines for things like muscle soreness and recovery, some experts say there’s no evidence proving they treat these issues effectively. For example, in one study involving healthy men, those who used intermittent pneumatic compression sleeves after exercise were no more likely to have a decrease in muscle soreness than those in the placebo group[4]Wiecha S, Jarocka M, Wiśniowski P, et al. The efficacy of intermittent pneumatic compression and negative pressure therapy on muscle function, soreness and serum indices of muscle damage: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2021;13(1):144. .
“It’s important to know that [these devices] are specifically designed to treat lymphedema, venous insufficiency with ulcers and to prevent DVT,” says Dr. Go. “Research is ongoing for other conditions, but as of now, they are not recommended for other uses.”
Yes, leg compression machines can be very effective in increasing blood flow and improving conditions like lymphedema and CVI. For instance, a study in Circulation found people who used leg compression machines had a lower risk of blood clots in the legs than those who didn’t use the machines. Also worth noting, those who used the machines and took medications to prevent blood clots as well experienced the best results[5]Ho KM, Tan JA. Stratified meta-analysis of intermittent pneumatic compression of the lower limbs to prevent venous thromboembolism in hospitalized patients. Circulation. .
How often you should use a leg compression machine depends on a number of factors, such as why you’re using it and your overall health and mobility. Your health care provider should give you specific use instructions. Be sure to read the owner’s manual of your chosen machine as well.
It depends on whether you have a prescription for the device and why you’re using it. Medicare, for example, can cover the cost of the machine if it’s prescribed by a physician and used to treat lymphedema or CVI with ulcers. In some cases, though, you may need to try more conservative therapy options, such as wearing compression garments, before insurance will cover a leg compression machine. Check with your insurance provider directly for more details about your specific coverage.
Information provided on Forbes Health is for educational purposes only. Your health and wellness is unique to you, and the products and services we review may not be right for your circumstances. We do not offer individual medical advice, diagnosis or treatment plans. For personal advice, please consult with a medical professional.
Forbes Health adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertisers.
Donna Christiano Campisano is a freelance writer specializing in women and children's health issues. She has written for numerous consumer publications and websites, including Parents, Woman’s Day, Good Housekeeping, Healthline and Verywell Health. She has also served on the staffs of both Glamour and Brides magazines as a researcher and copywriter. In addition to freelance writing, Christiano also works as a staff writer at the University of South Florida’s College of Public Health. She lives in the Tampa area with her family and beagle, Bananas.
Robby has spent his career in a variety of writing, editing and storytelling roles. He now resides near Birmingham, Alabama, with his wife and three kids. He enjoys woodworking, playing rec league soccer and supporting chaotic, downtrodden sports franchises like the Miami Dolphins and Tottenham Hotspur.
Back massager Alena is a professional writer, editor and manager with a lifelong passion for helping others live well. She is also a registered yoga teacher (RYT-200) and a functional medicine certified health coach. She brings more than a decade of media experience to Forbes Health, with a keen focus on building content strategy, ensuring top content quality and empowering readers to make the best health and wellness decisions for themselves.