Some people may have problems with swelling of the feet or legs in a particular area. This is sometimes known as edema. Edema is known medically as the presence of fluid trapped between the spaces of the body’s cells. This can cause swelling and swelling of the feet and legs. Some people find refuge from bloating using a compression massage from a massage chair.
Edema can result from a serious condition of the kidneys, heart, liver, or even blood vessels. Some of the following have been delayed to contribute to edema: pregnancy, PMS, neuromuscular disorders, and drug abuse. They 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 accumulate 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 do you know if edema affects you? The initial symptoms that may appear are swelling of the feet and legs. This usually happens as the day progresses. The swelling can start in the morning and become more progressive during 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 increases the stiffness of the muscles and joints. With increased stiffness, it begins to affect your mobility.
People who suffer from prolonged edema can have what is called stings. Stings 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 people with edema 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 this is a swelling, it is always important to elevate the legs. When you raise your legs above the level of your heart, this puts 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, be sure to try them on in the late afternoon. If you try them in the morning and your feet swell, 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 legrest contains a series of air pockets to provide a soft support and a squeeze massage. 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 check with your medical provider to see what is right for you. There are many options that may be available to help relieve the stiffness and pain of edema. Massage chairs have been used in some cases to help patients relieve stiffness and help improve their mobility.
