Saturday, July 22, 2006

Important Information for Workers who Stand for Long Hours

Important Information for Workers who Stand for Long Hours

Findings from a clinical trial support the use of Knee High Support Hose

STRONG BENEFITS OF BELOW THE KNEE STOCKINGS

This study has shown that wearing support stockings results in significantly reduced fluid accumulation in the legs and a reduced leg volume increase.Workers general comfort was also improved with less leg aching, tightness, heaviness and tiredness. Neck & shoulder and lower back discomfort plus overall fatigue were also improved. In the short term, these stockings can prevent leg fluid accumulation, improve how the legs feel and general body discomfort & fatigue, making standing for prolonged periods a little more bearable.

MAY PREVENT OR SLOW THE ONSET OF VARICOSE VEINS

Over the long term based on other information in the literature, it is believed that they may reduce the load on the lymphatic system, improve tissue and cellular health in the lower limbs and prevent or slow the onset of problems such as varicose veins.

Thursday, July 20, 2006

Italian Advice for Healthy Legs

Heatlhy Legs Advice from Italy

A figure fit for a miniskirt? The secret to attractive, healthy legs lies in more than a regular exercise program at the gym, it also involves proper nutrition. Certain kinds of food actually help us to get into shape and have a healthy body that is toned and full of energy. By relying on natural methods, you can improve your circulation and get rid of that sense of heaviness and tiredness in your legs, eliminating those unsightly swollen ankles that so many women are afflicted with, especially during the summer.


HEALTHY LEGS BEGIN AT THE TABLE

What foods should you choose to have shapely, healthy legs?

Tomatoes, potatoes and bananas, to start with; they are rich in potassium and help eliminate excess liquids. Blue fish contains those famous Omega 3 and 6 fats, as well as zinc, helping to keep the blood from becoming viscous while breaking down and eliminating toxins. Citrus fruits contain lots of vitamin C, and acts as an antioxidant, which fights free radicals. This means, among other things, that it helps maintain the elasticity of the veins, while protecting the blood vessels.

The "black" fruits, such as blueberries, grapes and berries in general, do the same thing, even if by different means. Hot pepper contains capsicine, a resin oil with a vasodilatory action, making it very good for circulation. According to recent studies, it appears that pomegranate juice is also excellent for circulation because it helps eliminate the accumulations of cholesterol and fats that tend to build up in the arteries. The recommended amount is just 50 ml a day. And finally, to keep fat intake under control, try to steer towards white meats (chicken, turkey and rabbit), eggs and yogurt, not to mention vegetables, fruit and cereals. Your food should be steamed or grilled and then sprinkled with cold-pressed oil (olive, linseed or sunflower). It's also important to drink lots of water.

Healthy Legs at Swedish Medical Center in Seattle

Healthy Legs Program

The Healthy Legs (Vascular Rehabilitation) Program is a comprehensive, year-long program offered through the Center for CardioVascular Wellness at Swedish. The program provides risk-reduction education and coaching to people with vascular disease, and is designed to help them reduce their risk for stroke and heart attack.

Know Your Risk for DVT Blood Clots

Know Your Risk

Are you at risk for DVT blood clots?

4 tests your doctor uses to diagnose DVT.

If your doctor thinks you have DVT blood clots, or may be at risk for DVT blood clots, the first thing he will do is examine you and get your medical history. Then, he may give you a test to help him make a more complete diagnosis. There are four tests that are commonly used to detect DVT blood clots and assess risk.

Wednesday, July 19, 2006

Health Tip: Varicose Veins May Not Need Treatment - Forbes.com

Health Tip: Varicose Veins May Not Need Treatment - Forbes.com

Although many people with varicose veins don't have any other symptoms, the Cleveland Clinic says that some people may have swelling or pain in the legs, itching, soreness or aching. Some skin discoloration may also occur.

Varicose veins occur most often among women, and may be influenced by a number of factors. Being older, overweight, and having a job that requires standing all day may contribute to varicose veins. Other factors may be heredity, crossing the legs often, using birth control pills, or use of post-menopausal hormone therapies.

Treatment may not be necessary, according to the clinic, unless you are experiencing pain. Support hose may help reduce symptoms in some people, and lifestyle changes like losing weight, exercise, and getting off your feet may also help.

Dealing with swollen feet on the bike

Triathlete Magazine "Dealing with swollen feet on the bike"

Recommendation from a family practitioner responding to a question about swollen feet during exercise. The response ...."start with a pair of below knee non-prescription support hose while biking and running. "

New Support Hose - Socks it to me?

Socks it to me

One man's experience with his new support hose. He notes "At nighttime, I swear I can hear them snarling in the drawer."