Leg compression devices — including compression boots, sleeves, and wraps — have become a go-to for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even people with circulation problems. These devices use controlled pressure to promote better blood flow, reduce swelling, and speed up recovery after workouts or long days on your feet. They can feel like a professional massage at home, and when used correctly, the benefits can be impressive.

But here’s the thing: just because something feels good and is marketed as “healthy” doesn’t mean it’s without risks. Like any medical or recovery tool, compression therapy has safety guidelines — and ignoring them can lead to discomfort, injury, or even serious health complications.

Whether you’re buying your first pair of compression boots or you’ve been using them for years, knowing the top 10 potential risks can help you get the benefits without putting your health at risk.

Related articles: Leg Compression Machine Side Effects: What You Should Know

Overly High Pressure

More pressure doesn’t always mean better results — in fact, cranking your compression boots or sleeves up too high can do the opposite of what you want.

When the compression is overly tight, it can restrict blood flow instead of improving it, which may cause numbness, tingling, swelling, or even bruising. In severe cases, especially for people with vascular problems, it can temporarily cut off circulation, which is dangerous and may require medical attention.

The safest approach is to start with the lowest pressure setting when using a new device, then increase the intensity gradually as your body gets used to it. Pay attention to warning signs — if you feel sharp pain, notice unusual pressure, or see your foot turning pale or cold, stop immediately and allow your legs to recover before trying again.

Prolonged Sessions

It’s easy to assume that if 20 minutes of compression feels good, doubling or tripling that time will make your legs feel even better — but compression therapy doesn’t work that way.

Overusing these devices can over-compress your tissues, which may lead to irritation, reduced circulation, or swelling once you remove the boots or sleeves. That’s because extended pressure can interfere with your body’s natural blood flow patterns, causing fluids to pool in unintended areas.

Most manufacturers recommend limiting sessions to about 15–30 minutes at a time, with breaks in between to let your legs recover. Longer sessions might be safe for certain individuals, but they should only be done with medical guidance.

If your goal is faster recovery, you’ll get better results by using compression boots for legs more often in shorter bursts throughout the day, rather than trying to pack all your recovery into one marathon session.

Skin Irritation or Chafing

Compression sleeves and boots wrap snugly around your legs, creating a warm, enclosed environment that can quickly turn into a breeding ground for irritation — especially when sweat or heat builds up inside.

Over time, the constant friction between your skin and the fabric can cause anything from mild redness and itching to more painful blisters or rashes. This is particularly common after long sessions or in hot, humid conditions.

To minimize the risk, it’s best to wear a thin, breathable layer underneath — moisture-wicking fabrics work especially well to keep your skin dry and reduce friction. Make sure your legs are completely clean and dry before putting the device on, and if you have sensitive skin, give yourself a quick check after each session so you can catch irritation early before it turns into something more serious.

Nerve Compression

Your legs aren’t just made of muscles and veins — they’re also packed with sensitive nerves that can easily be affected by excessive or uneven pressure. When a compression boot or sleeve applies too much force in the wrong spot, it can pinch or irritate these nerves, resulting in burning sensations, persistent tingling, sudden weakness, or even sharp, shooting pain.

The sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back down the back of the leg, is particularly vulnerable if the device doesn’t fit properly or distributes pressure unevenly. If you notice tingling that doesn’t fade after the session, a sudden drop in leg strength, or pain that feels like an electric shock, stop using the device immediately and allow your body time to recover before the next use. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more serious nerve irritation and longer recovery times.

Related articles: Top 6 Air Compression Boots For Optimal Recovery

Risk for People with Certain Conditions

While leg compression therapy can be beneficial for improving circulation and reducing swelling, it isn’t safe for everyone. People with certain medical conditions — such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), severe varicose veins, peripheral artery disease (PAD), congestive heart failure, or severe edema caused by organ failure — should avoid using compression devices unless specifically cleared by a doctor.

In these cases, applying external pressure can worsen the condition, dislodge blood clots, or place dangerous strain on the heart and vascular system. Even for individuals with milder circulation or heart issues, compression therapy should be approached with caution. The safest step is to consult your healthcare provider before starting, discuss the right settings and duration, and ensure that compression therapy is truly appropriate for your situation.

Swelling in Other Areas

Compression boots work by pushing fluid out of your legs to reduce swelling and improve circulation — but that fluid doesn’t just disappear. If the pressure is set too high or the session runs too long, the displaced fluid can accumulate in other parts of your body, such as your hips, lower abdomen, or even your lower back.

This effect is more common in people with lymphatic drainage issues or in those who use compression devices too frequently without giving the body enough time to redistribute fluids naturally. To minimize this risk, stick to moderate pressure settings, allow rest periods between sessions, and follow your treatment with gentle movement or stretching to encourage healthy fluid circulation throughout your body.

Overheating

Some compression devices can trap heat around your legs, especially if they’re made with thicker, non-breathable materials. While a little warmth can relax muscles and promote comfort, too much heat can cause discomfort, particularly if you use the device right after an intense workout when your body temperature is already elevated. In certain situations, overheating can even worsen inflammation, especially if you’re dealing with a fresh injury.

To avoid this, take breaks if the device feels overly warm, use it in a cooler environment, and consider models that feature breathable fabrics or cooling settings. It’s also best to avoid using compression boots immediately after applying heat packs or soaking in a hot bath, as the added warmth can increase the risk of irritation or swelling.

Improper Fit

One of the most common mistakes people make with compression therapy is using a device that doesn’t fit their leg size properly. If the boots or sleeves are too small, they can create painful pressure points and restrict circulation.

On the other hand, if they’re too large, they won’t deliver consistent compression, reducing the overall effectiveness of your session. To get the best results, always measure your legs before purchasing and follow the manufacturer’s sizing guide closely.

If you share your device with someone else, make sure to adjust the fit each time. Avoid makeshift straps or DIY adjustments that can lead to uneven pressure and discomfort — proper fit is key to both safety and performance.

Infection Risk

If you have cuts, open wounds, or existing skin infections on your legs, using compression boots can trap bacteria and create a warm, moist environment that allows infections to spread more quickly.

This can slow healing and lead to more serious complications if left unchecked. Before every session, inspect your skin for any abrasions or sores, and make sure your legs are thoroughly cleaned and dried. It’s also important to clean and disinfect the interior of your compression device regularly, especially if multiple people use it. By keeping both your skin and your device clean, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

False Sense of Security

Compression boots can be an excellent addition to your recovery routine, but they’re not a magic solution. They can’t replace the benefits of staying hydrated, eating well, stretching, or getting enough rest. Some people fall into the trap of thinking they can skip cooldowns, train harder, or recover faster just by using compression devices — but over-reliance can actually slow your progress or lead to injuries.

The best approach is to treat compression therapy as one tool in a balanced recovery plan, alongside active methods like walking, yoga, or foam rolling. Listening to your body and giving it the rest it needs is just as important as the tools you use to aid recovery.

Conclusion

Leg compression devices have earned their popularity for good reason — they can make your legs feel lighter, reduce soreness, and improve circulation. But like any health tool, they come with potential risks if used incorrectly.

By starting with low pressure, keeping sessions short, and paying attention to your body’s feedback, you can enjoy the benefits without putting your health in danger.

And above all, remember: when in doubt, ask your healthcare provider. Safe recovery is always better than a quick recovery that comes with long-term consequences.

If you need compression boots or want to learn more, you can click here.