Some people may have problems with swollen feet or legs in a particular area. This can sometimes be known as edema. Edema is medically known as the presence of retained fluid between the spaces of the body’s cells. This can cause swelling in the feet and legs. Some people are finding refuge from swelling by using a compression massage from a massage chair.
Edema can be the result of a serious condition of the kidneys, heart, liver, or even blood vessels. Some of the following have been slow to contribute to edema: pregnancy, premenstrual syndrome, neuromuscular disorders, and drug abuse. These are known to cause fluid retention between cells in the body.
Edema can usually affect the feet, ankles, and lower legs. These areas will tend to collect more fluid due to their relative positions when sitting and standing. Edema is also known to affect other areas of the body. When this occurs, there may be systemic symptoms.
How to know if you are being affected by edema? The first symptoms that may appear are swelling of the feet and legs. This usually happens as the day progresses. The swelling may start to appear in the morning and become more progressive throughout the day. This can start to weigh on you as the day goes on.
As the day progresses, your feet or lower legs may feel swollen. This can start to get you stuck as the swelling causes increased stiffness in the muscles and joints. With increased stiffness, it begins to affect your mobility.
People who suffer from long-term edema may have what are called pitting. Bites can be checked when you press on a small area for a few seconds. Once you release your finger, you may notice that an indentation continues in that area. This should be checked as continued swelling can cause skin ulcerations.
The edema can be progressive and begin to show many other symptoms. Other symptoms that may be experienced are high blood pressure, headaches, increased urination, and puffy eyes. Often edema sufferers may also notice weight gain. This is difficult as mobility is affected by swelling in the lower legs.
Preventing edema is always the best measure, but seeking relief is also a good alternative. Since you are dealing with swelling, it is always important to elevate your legs. When you raise your legs above the level of your heart, you put minimal pressure on the back of your knees and thighs.
You can also try leg wedges to elevate your feet while you sleep. Make sure your feet fit well in your shoes and there are even support socks. When trying to pick out some shoes, just make sure you try them on in the late afternoon. If you try them on in the morning and your feet swell up, they won’t fit in the afternoon.
Compression massages have been used to help reduce swelling associated with edema. A compression massage uses inflatable air bags to provide firm pressure. This helps relieve tension to reduce stiffness.
Many massage chairs have air compression massages for the lower body. A leg rest contains a series of airbags to provide a gentle massage for holding and squeezing. These airbags are designed for the feet and calves. This can be a great relief for someone with stiff joints and muscles.
Like any medical condition, you should always consult with your medical provider to see what is right for you. There are many options that may be available to help relieve stiffness and pain from edema. Massage chairs have been used in some cases to help patients relieve stiffness and help improve their mobility.