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Supporting Circulation & Complementing the Body's Tissue Repair Process: a Wearable Approach

Updated: Nov 19



Supporting Circulation, Tissue Repair, Exercise Recovery, & Performance: Overview

Enhancing circulation is essential for tissue repair, as it supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients, crucial for generating ATP and fueling cellular proliferation as well as protein synthesis. It also aids in the efficient removal of metabolic waste products, which can hinder healing following physical stress or injury. In this article, we will go through two remarkable published studies featuring patients with osteoarthritis and patients who have had a total knee arthroplasty; we will finish the conversation by going through an absolutely remarkable tool for supporting tissue recovery via supporting circulation and lymphatic flow.


Circulation & Tissue Repair:

Enhancing circulation is critical for facilitating tissue repair, as it augments the perfusion of oxygen and key nutrients necessary for cellular regeneration and repair processes. Oxygen is critical for mitochondrial respiration, yielding adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which serves as the cell's energy currency. Adequate ATP levels are essential for various cellular functions, such as protein synthesis, DNA replication, and cell proliferation, all of which are vital for tissue regeneration. In damaged or inflamed tissues, hypoxia (low oxygen levels) can severely impair mitochondrial efficiency, leading to reduced ATP production and compromised cellular function. Improved circulation restores oxygen supply, thereby optimizing mitochondrial activity, which in turn boosts energy production needed for healing. Nutrient delivery is another crucial aspect, as amino acids, glucose, and essential fatty acids transported through the bloodstream support the synthesis of cellular components needed for tissue repair.


Furthermore, the circulatory and lymphatic systems play complementary yet distinct roles in clearing metabolic waste during the recovery process following tissue stress or damage. The circulatory system is primarily responsible for delivering oxygen and nutrients to cells while efficiently removing metabolic by-products such as carbon dioxide and lactic acid. As blood flows through the network of capillaries, it not only provides essential oxygen that supports mitochondrial function and ATP production but also removes waste products generated by cellular metabolism. These by-products are transported through the bloodstream to organs like the liver, kidneys, and lungs for detoxification and excretion, thus preventing the accumulation of substances that can impede cellular function.


In parallel, the lymphatic system specializes in draining interstitial fluid that accumulates in tissues. This fluid often contains larger waste products, such as cellular debris, excess proteins, and inflammatory molecules. By absorbing this fluid, the lymphatic vessels play a crucial role in maintaining tissue homeostasis. The lymph, once collected, is transported through a network of lymphatic vessels where it is filtered by lymph nodes before eventually being returned to the circulatory system via the thoracic duct. This process is essential for clearing out excess fluid, reducing tissue swelling, and facilitating the removal of larger waste particles that cannot be efficiently handled by the blood vessels alone.


Enhanced blood flow not only accelerates the removal of soluble waste but also supports the lymphatic system by promoting the movement of interstitial fluid into lymphatic vessels. This synergy reduces the buildup of metabolic by-products and excess fluid, ultimately decreasing tissue pressure and inflammation. The combined action of these systems aids in restoring optimal cellular function, providing a cleaner environment for tissue repair and regeneration, which is crucial for maintaining overall tissue health after physical stress or injury.



Published Study Using Incrediwear:

Effect of Germanium-Embedded Knee Sleeve on Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee is a degenerative joint disorder characterized by the progressive breakdown of cartilage, leading to pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility. Affecting approximately 20% of individuals over 45 years old in the United Kingdom, knee OA not only impairs patients' quality of life but also contributes to significant healthcare burdens due to increased consultations, interventions, and surgical procedures. The standard approach to managing OA focuses on alleviating pain, maintaining joint function, and delaying the progression of the disease.


46 participants who had radiographically confirmed OA, reported knee pain for at least 6 months, and had chosen non-surgical treatment options were included and assessed over a 6-month study. Pain levels, mobility, and overall knee function were assessed, and the Incrediwear Cred40 knee sleeve (a germanium-embedded sleeve) was used in the study.


Germanium, a semiconductor metalloid, possesses unique electronic properties that differentiate it from traditional metals. Unlike metals that increase resistance with rising temperatures, germanium's resistance decreases as temperature increases, due to the enhanced mobility of its "free" electrons. This distinctive feature enables germanium to generate a low-level electromagnetic field when exposed to body heat, supporting an increase in circulation and a decrease in inflammation within the body.


Following the assessment period, the Incrediwear knee sleeves significantly improved pain relief, knee function, and overall mobility in patients with Grades 1 and 2 osteoarthritis, showing marked improvements in their pain scores and functional assessments. These are truly incredible findings!


Marino K, Lee R, Lee P. Effect of Germanium-Embedded Knee Sleeve on Osteoarthritis of the Knee. Orthop J Sports Med. 2019;7(10):2325967119879124. doi: 10.1177/2325967119879124.



Published Study Using Incrediwear:

Non-Compressive Sleeves Versus Compression Stockings After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Pilot Study

Compression stockings are commonly prescribed after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and minimize leg swelling. This study sought to compare the effects of traditional compression stockings with the Incrediwear sleeves (Incrediwear sleeves utilize a non-compressive design embedded with semiconductor elements, including germanium and carbonized charcoal) on post-operative recovery outcomes after TKA. The study involved 55 subjects who underwent TKA, and participants were divided into two groups: a control group using compression stockings and an experimental group using Incrediwear sleeves. Additionally, 5 subjects who underwent bilateral TKA wore a compression stocking on one leg and an Incrediwear sleeve on the other for direct intra-patient comparison.


At 3 weeks post-surgery, the Incrediwear group had a significant reduction in effusion/swelling compared to the compression group, which showed an increase in effusion. In more detail, Incrediwear users experienced a 19% reduction in effusion/swelling, while the control group showed a 35% increase.

Justice TE, Jacob PB. Non-compressive sleeves versus compression stockings after total knee arthroplasty: A prospective pilot study. J Orthop. 2023; 49:102-106. doi: 10.1016/j.jor.2023.11.044



Incrediwear Technology:

Incrediwear truly exemplifies cutting-edge technology in tissue recovery, utilizing embedded semiconductor elements—particularly germanium and carbonized charcoal—to enhance healing, as demonstrated through numerous studies, including the two remarkable published research studies above.


Unlike traditional compression garments which utilize mechanical pressure that can temporarily reduce swelling, but are not indicated for prolonged use and bring the risk of decreased circulation, Incrediwear does not utilize compression. Instead, Incrediwear uses the body's natural heat to activate its technology. The semiconductor particles within the fabric generate low-level electromagnetic fields when exposed to body heat, supporting an increase in circulation and decrease in inflammation.


As discussed previously, optimal circulation is essential for tissue repair, as it supports the delivery of oxygen and nutrients, crucial for generating ATP and fueling cellular proliferation and protein synthesis. It also aids in the efficient removal of metabolic waste products, which can hinder healing if not cleared following physical stress or injury.



With that said, Incrediwear is truly a phenomenal tool to support the body: They have an amazing range of products, including their knee sleeves, ankle sleeves, elbow sleeves, and other braces, designed to enhance exercise performance and mobility as well as expedite recovery. Whether you're a competitive athlete looking to optimize your performance or simply seeking relief from chronic joint pain, Incrediwear is undoubtedly an invaluable tool!


Go and check out Incrediwear at incrediwear.com, and use code CHLOEP to get 10% off.



Published Research Studies:


(1) Marino K, Lee R, Lee P. Effect of Germanium-Embedded Knee Sleeve on Osteoarthritis of the Knee. Orthop J Sports Med. 2019;7(10):2325967119879124. doi: 10.1177/2325967119879124.


(2) Justice TE, Jacob PB. Non-compressive sleeves versus compression stockings after total knee arthroplasty: A prospective pilot study. J Orthop. 2023; 49:102-106. doi: 10.1016/j.jor.2023.11.044


*Always consult with a licensed medical professional for all of your medical needs and before taking any nutritional supplement.

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