Good circulation is essential for a healthy body, especially for older adults or anyone with mobility issues. If you have limited mobility or spend a lot of time sitting, you might experience symptoms of poor leg circulation, like cold feet or cramping. One convenient way to boost circulation in your legs is by using a massage chair at home.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore why circulation problems happen, how massage chairs (particularly riser recliner chairs) can help, and what you can do to keep your legs healthy and comfortable.
Navigation guide
- What causes poor leg circulation?
- Signs of poor circulation in the legs
- How massage chairs improve circulation
- Benefits of riser recliner chairs for leg circulation
- Tips for using a massage chair to boost circulation
- Other ways to improve circulation in your legs
- Living more comfortably with better circulation
- Transform your circulation and comfort today
1. What causes poor leg circulation?
Circulation refers to the flow of blood through your arteries and veins, delivering oxygen and nutrients to your muscles and organs.
There are many reasons someone might develop poor circulation in their legs. Age is a common factor – as we get older, our arteries can stiffen or narrow, making it harder for blood to reach the extremities. This often happens due to a build-up of fatty plaques in the artery walls (atherosclerosis), which slows blood flow.
Certain health conditions can also contribute to poor leg circulation. For example, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which is common in the legs, involves narrowed arteries and reduced blood flow. Diabetes is another contributor – high blood sugar over time can damage blood vessels and lead to circulation issues.
Other factors like high blood pressure and high cholesterol also increase the risk by harming the blood vessels or causing plaque build-up. Being overweight or inactive can worsen circulation as well, since exercise normally helps pump blood through the body.
2. Signs of poor circulation in the legs
Poor circulation can cause a variety of symptoms – some subtle, some more obvious. You might notice your feet or toes often feel cold, even when the room is warm. Some people experience frequent pins and needles sensations or tingling in the feet and legs. Numbness or a “fallen asleep” feeling in the legs is another common sign that blood flow is reduced.
If you have circulation problems due to artery narrowing, you could develop cramps or pain in your calf muscles when walking, a condition known as intermittent claudication. Visibly, you might see swollen ankles or varicose veins in your legs; blood pooling from poor circulation can make the veins enlarge or fluid accumulate.
In more severe cases, chronically poor blood flow might even lead to slow-healing sores on the feet or legs. Pale or bluish skin on the legs or feet due to lack of blood flow is also a known symptom.
If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms regularly, mention them to your GP, especially if they’re persistent, as they can evaluate for underlying conditions. The good news is that there are simple ways to encourage better blood flow, even if you have limited mobility – and massage is one of them.
3. How massage chairs improve circulation
Massage therapy is well-known for its ability to stimulate blood flow. When muscles are massaged, pressure is applied to the soft tissues, which helps push blood through areas where it might be stagnant or congested.
Essentially, massage works like a pump on your muscles – squeezing and releasing – which can propel blood in the veins back towards your heart. It also helps to move out waste products like lactic acid from your muscles, reducing pain and stiffness. The result is often an immediate feeling of warmth in the massaged area due to increased circulation.
For older people, this boost in blood flow is particularly beneficial. Better circulation means oxygen and nutrients are delivered more efficiently to your leg tissues, which can ease aches and reduce that heavy, tired-leg feeling. Massage also gently stretches and relaxes the muscles and blood vessels. This can bring relief from cramps or numbness caused by sitting too long.
A massage chair delivers these circulation benefits in a convenient way, without needing a professional masseuse. Modern massage chairs use mechanical motors and vibration technology to simulate the effects of a hands-on massage. By simply sitting back in your chair, you can enjoy a consistent, therapeutic massage at the press of a button. The rhythmic vibrations or kneading motions in a massage chair help dilate (widen) blood vessels in your legs and feet, encouraging better blood flow.
Over time, regular use of a massage chair can help to maintain healthy circulation in your lower limbs, especially if health or mobility issues make exercise difficult.
Another advantage is that massage chairs at home allow frequent therapy without the hassle or cost of visiting a massage clinic. You can use the chair daily, or even multiple times a day, to keep your leg circulation stimulated. This consistent approach can really make a difference – instead of one massage a month, you’re able to encourage blood flow every day on your own schedule. And unlike a simple leg massage device, a full riser recliner massage chair treats your entire body with integrated support and comfort.
4. Benefits of riser recliner chairs for leg circulation
Riser recliner chairs – like those offered by Adjustamatic – have specific features that can benefit blood flow in your legs. They combine two important functions: gentle massage therapy and powered reclining that can elevate your legs. Together, they can provide fast relief for poor circulation symptoms.
Built-in therapeutic massage
Adjustamatic’s riser recliner chairs can come with an NHC Cyclo-Therapy® massage system, an innovative technology registered in the UK as a Class IIa medical device for its therapeutic benefits.
Unlike some massage mechanisms that just thump or vibrate, Cyclo-Therapy uses a unique circular motion massage. This three-way cycloidal vibration gently rotates and pulsates, penetrating deeper into muscle tissue without the harsh “hammering” effect of ordinary massage chairs. The result is a soothing yet effective stimulation of blood vessels and muscles.
The technology is proven to help stimulate healthy circulation, which can be especially helpful for those suffering from leg problems like swollen ankles or varicose veins.
Elevating leg rest for better blood flow
A key benefit of riser recliners is the ability to raise your legs and feet at the touch of a button. Elevating your legs improves circulation by using gravity to your advantage. The British Heart Foundation recommends propping your feet up at least slightly higher than your hips when sitting, because it makes it easier for blood in your legs to flow back up to your heart.
In a riser recliner, you can smoothly adjust to this ideal position. By reclining back and lifting the leg rest, your legs are supported in an elevated position that helps prevent blood from pooling in your lower legs.
Many people with varicose veins or oedema find significant relief when they can regularly put their feet up. Adjustamatic’s riser recliners are designed with a “high leg lift” position for this very reason – it helps reduce leg swelling and improve circulation for those with conditions like osteoarthritis or varicose veins.
Comfort and pain relief encourages movement
Simply sitting in a well-designed recliner can alleviate discomfort that might be hindering your mobility. Stiff or painful joints often discourage people from moving around, which in turn worsens circulation.
A riser recliner chair supports your body in a comfortable, ergonomic position, easing pressure on the hips, knees, and lower back. The gentle vibrations from the built-in massage can further ease aches, loosen stiff joints, and relax tight muscles.
When your pain is under control and you feel more relaxed, you’ll be more inclined to stand up and move periodically rather than staying stuck in one position.
Easy rise to a standing position
Riser recliners also have a powered lift function that tilts the chair forward and assists you in standing up with minimal effort. This is very helpful if you have limited strength or balance. It means you can get up frequently and safely, even on days you feel a bit weak.
Regularly standing and walking are natural ways to boost circulation, so anything that helps you stand up more often is a benefit to your legs. With a riser recliner, you don’t have to dread the process of getting out of your chair. At the push of a button, the seat will gently lift you to your feet. This feature provides both independence and a subtle health benefit – by making standing up easier, the chair encourages you to be more active.
5. Tips for using a massage chair to boost circulation
Having a massage chair is a great start, but there are a few things you can do to ensure you’re getting the maximum benefit from it. Here are some tips and best practices, especially for older users or those with health concerns:
Use your chair regularly
Consistency is key to improving circulation. Aim to use the massage function on your chair daily, or as advised by the manufacturer. Even a 15–20-minute massage session once or twice a day can make a difference over time.
Many people find a session in the morning helps loosen up stiff legs, and another in the evening relieves any swelling from the day. Listen to your body – start with shorter sessions and gradually increase as you feel comfortable.
Find the optimal position
When using a massage chair, adjust the recline angle and leg elevation to a comfortable position that promotes circulation. As mentioned, elevating your legs slightly above hip level is ideal for venous blood flow. Make sure your feet are supported by the footrest and not dangling.
Many riser recliners allow you to adjust the backrest and footrest independently – experiment with different angles until you feel a good pressure relief in your legs. A zero-gravity position can be particularly effective at boosting leg circulation.
Adjust massage intensity and zones
Modern massage chairs often have settings to control the intensity of the massage and target different body areas. Start with a gentle intensity if you’re not used to massage, then increase as needed. You might focus the massage on the leg and lower back area if your chair has zone controls, since stimulating the calves, thighs, and lumbar region can all aid circulation in the lower body.
If the chair has heat therapy, using a bit of warmth can also help, as it causes blood vessels to dilate.
Keep sessions comfortable and safe
Always sit properly in the chair with your back supported to get the best results. If you have any medical devices like a pacemaker or specific health conditions like deep vein thrombosis, consult your doctor before using vibration massage.
While massage chairs are generally very safe, it’s wise to get medical approval if you have serious circulatory disorders or implants. Also, stay hydrated – massage can move fluids around in your body, so drinking water afterwards will help your body flush out toxins and keep your blood volume up.
Combine massage with gentle movement
You can do simple leg exercises even while seated in your massage chair. For example, during breaks in the massage, wriggle your toes and rotate your ankles in circles. This flexing motion encourages blood flow in your feet and lower legs. Some people also like to pause the massage and do a few seated calf raises or straighten and bend the knees to keep the joints limber.
These small movements alongside the massage will maximise the circulation boost. After your massage session, when you stand up, consider taking a short walk around the house.
Listen to your body’s feedback
Pay attention to how you feel during and after using the massage chair. You should feel relaxed and comfortably warm in your legs as blood flow improves. If anything feels painful or uncomfortable, stop the massage and adjust the settings.
Everyone’s sensitivity is different – some may prefer a softer massage for longer, while others like a vigorous massage for a shorter time. Find what works best for you. As your circulation improves over weeks of use, you might notice less swelling or fatigue in your legs, which is a great sign that your routine is working.
6. Other ways to improve circulation in your legs
While a massage chair can significantly help with leg circulation, it works even better when combined with healthy lifestyle habits. Here are some additional ways to boost your leg circulation:
Stay active within your abilities
Any form of physical activity helps get your blood pumping. Even if you have limited mobility, find exercises that work for you – it could be a short daily walk, light gardening, or chair-based exercises.
If you’re able to, aiming for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, like brisk walking, is recommended for general health. Staying as active as possible keeps your heart strong and assists your veins in moving blood upward from your legs.
Keep your legs warm
Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing circulation to your feet. If you often have cold feet or live in a chilly home, make sure to wear warm socks and keep your legs covered.
Using a blanket or having a warm footbath can encourage blood flow. This is especially relevant if you have a condition like Raynaud’s. Avoid direct high heat like hot water bottles on numb feet, as you might not sense if it’s too hot.
Elevate your legs during rest
Propping up your legs when sitting or lying down can greatly improve circulation. If you don’t have a recliner, you can use a footstool or an elevating leg pillow when on the sofa or in bed. The goal is to have your feet at a level equal to or higher than your heart for a while each day, which helps drain pooled blood from the legs.
Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet
Drinking enough water is important because about half of your blood is made up of water. If you’re dehydrated, your blood can become thicker and flow more sluggishly. Maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.
Over time, a nutritious diet helps manage weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol – all factors that affect circulation. Foods high in omega-3 or antioxidants support blood vessel health. Limiting salt can prevent water retention and swelling.
Consider compression socks (with medical guidance)
Compression stockings are special snug-fitting socks that gently squeeze the legs to help push blood upwards. They can be very effective for improving circulation and reducing swelling or varicose veins. However, they must fit properly and aren’t suitable for everyone.
If you have significant circulation problems, talk to your GP or nurse about whether compression socks might help in your case. Do remove them when using the massage chair, though, so the massage can work directly on your leg muscles.
Quit smoking (if you smoke)
Smoking can seriously harm circulation by damaging blood vessel walls and making arteries harder and narrower. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your circulation and overall health. Your blood circulation starts to improve within weeks of stopping smoking.
By incorporating these measures along with using your massage chair, you’ll tackle poor circulation from multiple angles. Small daily actions like moving more, elevating your feet, and staying hydrated all add up to better circulation.
7. Living more comfortably with better circulation
Poor leg circulation can be uncomfortable – even limiting – but it doesn’t have to dictate your life. With the right approach, you can improve blood flow in your legs and reduce symptoms significantly.
A massage chair, especially a quality riser recliner chair, is a wonderful investment in your health and comfort. It provides therapeutic massage relief and encourages healthy circulation without requiring strenuous activity. For older adults or those with mobility issues, it’s a reassuring and convenient way to care for your legs daily.
Using a massage chair can also be a mental comfort. Taking time to sit back, relax, and let the gentle massage work through your muscles is a great stress reliever. Stress and tension can make your circulation worse, as blood vessels constrict when you’re stressed, so relaxation is part of the remedy. Many people report sleeping better and having more energy in their legs after incorporating regular massage chair sessions into their routine.
8. Transform your circulation and comfort today
If poor leg circulation has been affecting your daily comfort and mobility, you now understand how a therapeutic massage chair could be the solution you’ve been seeking. Why continue struggling with cold feet, swelling, and discomfort when relief could be just a button press away?
Experience better circulation with Adjustamatic’s riser recliner chairs
At Adjustamatic we engineer wellness solutions that address real health challenges. Our riser recliner chairs are specifically designed to tackle circulation problems through innovative technology and thoughtful design.
Here’s what sets our approach apart for circulation improvement:
- Clinically-proven NHC Cyclo-Therapy® massage technology: Unlike basic vibration systems, our Class IIa medical device registration reflects genuine therapeutic benefits. The unique three-way circular motion penetrates deep into muscle tissue, stimulating blood flow without harsh impacts – perfect for sensitive circulation issues.
- Precision leg elevation for optimal blood flow: Our chairs position your legs at the ideal angle to harness gravity’s help in moving blood back to your heart. This targeted elevation can provide immediate relief from swelling and that heavy-leg feeling.
- Built for your body’s needs: Whether you need our Petite, Standard, or Grande sizing, each chair is crafted to support proper circulation while maintaining comfort for hours. Our dual-motor systems allow independent adjustment of back and leg positions for maximum therapeutic benefit.
- Ongoing wellness support: From your first consultation through years of use, our team understands circulation challenges and can guide you toward the features that will make the biggest difference in your daily comfort.
Feel the difference improvements to your circulation can make
Don’t let another day pass with uncomfortable, tired legs. Our specialists are ready to help you discover how buying a riser recliner chair can improve your daily wellness.
Book your complimentary home demonstration today where you can experience firsthand how our massage technology and elevation features work together to boost your circulation – all in the comfort of your own living room.
Call us today free on 0800 689 9823 (lines open 9am-5pm Monday to Friday) or send us a message to book your free home consultation. If you have qualifying health conditions, we can also guide you through VAT exemption benefits.
