Blood circulation is one of the most important bodily functions. Good blood circulation allows tissues to take in nutrients and get rid of waste and is an essential function for long-term leg health and strength. Circulation is best described as being the “flow” of blood and nutrients throughout the body which is made possible by the heart’s pumping function. Typically, when you think about issues with blood circulation, the first things you will think of are directly related to the heart; but these problems can exist throughout the body. From clots to plaque buildup, there are many ways that circulation throughout the body can be hindered. One of the most dangerous things that can occur from poor circulation is lack of feeling or use of your extremities.
Everyone has experienced moments where they sat weird or sat on their leg for just a bit too long causing you too – temporarily – lose feeling in your foot; or maybe you feel as if you are walking on pins and needles. This is not the issue of poor circulation; this would be an issue of cutting off circulation in a tourniquet style fashion. Though this sensation could be a sign of poor circulation, there are other factors that may give you a better indication of whether you should consult your physician.
Here are some factors you should be aware of:
- Frequent exhaustion,
- Tightening of chest,
- Cold Extremities,
- Skin Discoloration,
- Swelling of feet and hands,
- Leg Ulcers,
- Varicose Veins,
There is a particular problem with leg circulation as when blood is circulating through your lower extremities back to you heart, due to the fact that that the returning blood is having to fight gravity; after all, gravity does not just affect your ability to not float right off the ground. If you notice any of these signs, it would be a smart to consult your doctor to see whether you should approach it homeopathically or through the use of medical intervention.
So how do I know what I should do?
If you feel that you want to try natural remedies before seeking more aggressive medical intervention, there are several things you should consider. The first and most important would be to reduce your level of stress. According to a recent study completed by the American Psychological Association (APA), nearly 2/3rds of Americans feel certain levels of stress – this being the highest percentage of Americans to identify this way.
Due to this increase in stress levels and the fact that increased stress has become a societal norm, most people will not think of this as being a contributing factor. Though this is not the easiest factor to diminish, there are things you can do. From taking the time to meditate, listening to music, or even just taking some controlled, deep breaths. Even just taking a few moments for yourself to recenter yourself can be beneficial physically and mentally.
After dealing with your mental state, there are some physical things you can do to work on positively increasing your blood circulation.
Here are some examples of easy tricks:
- Simply getting up and moving around is the easiest way to improve blood circulation because it is the fastest way to increase muscle contractions in the legs. As muscles contract and relax, they squeeze around the large veins in the legs, promoting healthy circulation in more stagnant areas of flow.
- Through the use of stretching or yoga, other than increasing your flexibility and possible weight loss, can also promote blood flow throughout the body.
- Avoid restrictive clothing. Now we all know that skinny jeans are a fashion trend that just won’t die. But there is a difference between slender cut jeans and jeans that are actually just far too small and restrictive. Never let fashion trump your health.
- Wear comfortable shoes throughout your day. Whether you are at work, home, or going out, if you wear comfortable shoes, you are more likely to stand and move about more than if you are wearing uncomfortable shoes. For example, if you are wearing high heels all day, you are far more likely to “flat out” and sit down constricting your blood flow; while conversely if you wear tennis shoes, you may feel more comfortable and be able to stand and walk around for longer throughout your day.
But if you are looking for more immediate solutions, or if you just aren’t sure where to start there are resources you can utilize. For more information or to find a vein clinic near you to assist in your quest, click here to find a vein clinics near you.
Melissa Bell
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