Leg Rest - How It Can Benefit Your Health

Author: Derry Hall

Mobility aids can be beneficial for people who are unable to walk and move all by themselves. Several mobility aids like a wheelchair, a walking stick, crutches, toilet aids, etc. don't only provide extra support and reduce pain but also help elders or people with mobility issues to retain their independence.

A versatile range of mobility and comfort devices is available in the market to meet people's expectations. A leg rest is a popular aid among them. By allowing the legs to stay elevated, it helps reduce discomfort typically for older adults or someone who has an illness or impairment. Physicians, for years, have been recommending leg elevation. It is a simple method that helps treat swelling and other health problems majorly in legs and veins.

Read on to know a few health benefits that you can enjoy by using this aid.

Enhanced Blood Circulation

Poor blood circulation can increase fatigue and health complications. By elevating your legs, the flow of blood becomes easier and this will help enhance your health. Secondly, in those who are suffering from mobility ailments, lack of proper physical activity as compared to others can cause blood clot or varicose veins to develop. Keeping feet elevated can help reduce the risk of developing these circulatory conditions.

Reduced Back Problems

Sitting on a wheelchair or a simple chair for extended periods puts a strain on your spine. This can lead to back problems - especially in your lower back. A possible solution to avoid this is a rest. It enables you to sit straight in a chair without slouching thus reducing the pressure on your spine and lower back. This will not just make you feel comfortable but also reduce the risk of a back strain or injury.

Improved Posture

Slouching has a direct impact on your posture. A bad posture not only causes back pain but also leads to decline in productivity. People with mobility issues already suffer from pain and injury. Improper posture can add to further complications in pre-existing back and leg problems.

Sitting with elevated legs can lead to a dramatic improvement. This, by supporting the calf, takes the pressure off the thigh and keeps legs straight to increase comfort for long periods of sitting.

Reduced Swelling and Inflammation

If your leg is swollen and you raise it higher than your heart, the fluid in your leg will move towards your heart due to the force of gravity. Therefore, elevation is a good practice to reduce swelling. This aid can help reduce inflammation that occurs due to swelling. The more the swelling, the longer you need to elevate your legs. Reduced swelling will, in turn, keep your veins healthy.

Apart from these primary health benefits, this equipment has several other advantages as follows:

  • It is a good option for short-heighted people who might not keep their feet flat on the ground while sitting on a chair. The tool also takes care that the weight is properly distributed.
  • As this aid is easily transportable between rooms, you can move your rest to wherever you are sitting. It also does not require a long process of installation.
  • These rests are extremely comfortable if you have long hours to spend at the desk.
  • You can also use this rest while working on an adjustable desk.

    • Final Words

    A leg rest has emerged as a popular aid among a number of comfort and mobility aids over the last couple of years. It significantly reduces pain and provides comfort. However, getting your condition assessed thoroughly by a professional physiotherapist is highly recommendable before you buy this aid or feel changes like sudden pain in calf, knees, lower back, or any other like that.