Author(s) :

Arslan Maharramli.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Heated compression therapy combines two common recovery strategies—thermal therapy and mechanical compression—to enhance circulation, reduce soreness, and restore performance. This systematic review with a structured search (2010–2025) synthesizes evidence on compression, heat, and their combination, and contrasts responses between younger (16–35) and middle-aged (36–54) athletes, with additional commentary on older adults ≥ 55 where available. These broader categories were selected due to heterogeneity in age definitions across the included studies. Compression consistently improves venous return and perceptual recovery; heat increases local blood flow and tissue extensibility. Combined heated compression generally yields larger short-term gains in pressure-to-pain threshold, perceived soreness, and local perfusion than either modality alone, although protocols vary widely (temperature 38–45 °C, pressure 15–30 mmHg, 5–20 min). Younger athletes show faster vascular kinetics and quicker readiness; middle-aged/older groups report greater reductions in stiffness and potential vascular health benefits. Evidence is limited by small samples, male-heavy cohorts, heterogeneous devices, and labdominant settings. Standardized protocols and outcome measurements are needed to make clearer comparisons and real-world validity in future research.