With the foot massager craze continuing, we know that you are wondering if these devices can actually improve circulation.
The short answer is yes!
Using a foot massager for just 10 minutes has been shown to lower blood pressure and increase circulation. We recommend you use it before bedtime because this will help you sleep better and reduce stress levels.
Keep reading to learn more about the signs and causes of poor circulation, what to do about it and how foot massagers can help.
There are many different types of foot massagers on the market and we help you to choose one that helps to improve your blood flow.
How to Recognize Bad Circulation in Your Feet?
If you notice any of the following symptoms there is a good chance your blood circulation is less than optimal. It may be time to see a doctor and get a professional opinion.
Cold feet
Our blood circulation and temperature are closely related. When the rate of blood flow drops, our body's natural heat regulation system can't keep up with fluctuations in outside temperatures.
The first body parts where we will notice this issue are the extremities - our hands and our feet.
Swelling
Poor circulation can have adverse effects on the body, such as fluid accumulation. This is called edema and causes swelling, typically in the lower legs, ankles, or feet.
Numbness or tingling
Poor circulation within your body, particularly in hands or feet, is often accompanied by symptoms such as numbness and tingling sensations.
Tired feet
The body needs a certain amount of energy to function properly. Poor blood flow affects the levels and causes fatigue, making it difficult to do daily activities without feeling lethargic.
What causes poor circulation in the feet?
Diabetes
Researchers found that diabetes can cause swelling, hypertension, and impaired circulation in the feet. It also has a connection to neuropathy which presents symptoms similar to those of foot circulation problems.
Deep vein thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis is a condition where a blood clot obstructs the arteries leading into limbs with stagnant pools of venous blood. If a DVT breaks free and causes a pulmonary embolism, it could even be fatal!
Sedentary lifestyle
A lack of movement can lead to circulation problems for seniors and people who sit all day long. This is why it's important to remain active, in order to keep our hearts healthy and pumping smoothly.
Age
When we age, our blood vessels become less responsive. When the baroreceptors in your body don't work as they used to, it becomes more difficult for them to sense changes in pressure.
The aorta can also be damaged by high cholesterol levels and this can lead to circulatory impairment that is unavoidable with age.
Smoking
Smoking causes a number of negative side effects - from cancer to lung disease- but did you know that smoking can cause peripheral vascular disease too?
It's making it more difficult for blood to flow appropriately throughout your body - including down into your feet!
Obesity
People who are overweight often suffer from circulation issues due to the strain their weight puts on their heart and the additional pressure it puts on the feet.
Do Foot Massagers Improve Circulation?
Foot massage increases blood flow, which helps with healing and keeps your muscles and tissues healthy.
People with diabetes or those who spend too much time sitting can benefit even more as poor blood circulation can lead to a number of additional health issues if not managed properly.
The pressure from the massage actually moves excess and congested blood through your body's circulatory system which is why you feel lighter after a session.
When this same pressure releases, new fresh blood rushes into that space where there was previously stagnant congestion causing a burst of renewed energy!
What is the best foot massager for circulation?
In our opinion, the Sole Solutions Foot Massager from Cloud Massage takes the palm.
This device can be used on your feet, ankles, and calves. It utilizes the Shiatsu technique that simulates kneading sensations and promotes blood circulation - everything a person needs after a long day!
In addition to this model, we have also reviewed 9 other foot massagers for diabetics, and people who need to improve their circulation here.
Features of the top foot massagers
There are a wide variety of foot massagers available and to various degrees, they will all help.
However, some features are more helpful if your goal is better blood flow. Let's see which ones you wanna pay attention to!
Heat therapy
With heat therapy, blood circulation will be increased allowing for ease of movement and relaxation. It also stimulates the flow of blood to damaged areas in order to make recovery much easier and faster than it would otherwise.
Compression massage
Air compression leg massagers are a great way to alleviate the pain in your feet and calves. They improve lymphatic blood circulation, flush out lactic acid, and reduce soreness and pain - all without any harmful side effects!
Shiatsu technique
Shiatsu massage is a type of Japanese touch therapy that increases blood circulation throughout the body by restoring the circulatory system.
It also helps reduce stress, anxiety, and chronic pain while stimulating your nervous system and the immune system, benefiting both body and mind at the same time.
FAQ
What can you do about poor circulation in your feet?
Wear properly fitted shoes with enough room for your toes.
Avoid standing or sitting without movement as much as possible
Try using a foot massager! The best options have at least one setting specifically designed to increase circulation.
Where do you massage for blood circulation?
There are many places on your body that can be massaged for blood circulation.
Your hands, feet, and head all provide excellent massage areas to increase circulation in the body.
The sole of the foot is one of the most effective ways to stimulate blood flow because it has more nerve endings than any other part of your legs.
