Resting in a recliner can be rewarding after a long day of work. But, many people complain about their legs aching when sitting on a recliner.
This can lead to people asking whether or not recliners are bad for leg circulation, as their legs may feel numb or swollen after sitting for a few hours.
In this post, we’ll discuss whether or not recliners are bad for leg circulation and how you can adjust them to improve your overall blood circulation.
Key Takeaways
- Sitting in a recliner for long periods is bad for leg circulation as it restricts the oxygen of the blood going into your legs
- A recliner can improve blood circulation to the legs if you use its footrest to elevate your feet
- Doctors recommend sitting in a recliner with your feet elevated above the heart’s position for 20 minutes to promote positive blood circulation
Why Do My Legs Hurt When I Sit in a Recliner?
When you sit in a recliner all you feel at first is the warm embrace of the fabric hugging you as your tiredness fades away. But after some time passes you may notice your legs starting to ache and feel a bit heavy.
If you sit in a recliner for long hours with your legs bent, blood flow in the legs is restricted. This causes blood to build up in the veins and reduces oxygenation causing your legs to hurt and feel discomfort.
Are Recliners Bad for Leg Circulation?
Recliners are only bad for leg circulation when they are used in the wrong way and for long hours. But, recliners can actually be good for leg circulation as they provide multiple ways to adjust the back and footrest to control its position.
These adjustable positions are the reason some doctors recommend seniors and disabled people to use recliners to comfortably sit and prevent any blood circulation issues. Since they may have an issue standing up and sitting down, a recliner chair would be perfect to rest in while ensuring blood flows properly in their lower body.
Since using a recliner in the wrong way can cause bad leg circulation, using it properly promotes better leg circulation.
How Should I Sit to Improve Circulation in My Legs?
To improve blood circulation in your legs you must sit on your recliner with your feet elevated above heart level. You should also ensure your recliner chair has good lumbar support leaving no gap between your back and the back of the seat to prevent back pain.
Research suggests that sitting like this for 20 minutes is enough to maintain healthy blood circulation in the body.
Is Recliner Good for Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are swollen veins that may appear on the legs and feet. They may be purple or blue in color and accompany some uncomfortable symptoms like swelling, aching, and heavy legs.
Varicose veins are usually caused by increased blood pressure in the veins which can be because of poor leg circulation and blood flow.
Using a recliner is a great way to prevent varicose veins as it allows you to elevate your feet in the air and reduce the pressure on your legs. Since blood moves from the legs to other parts of the body, the blood flows naturally throughout the body and promotes positive blood circulation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Recliners Good for Blood Circulation?
Recliners are good for blood circulation as they allow you to adjust the footrest to elevate your feet improving blood circulation in the lower body.
Can Recliners Cause Blood Clots?
Recliners can cause blood clots if you sit or sleep in them for long periods in improper positions. This happens as the blood gets restricted in the legs and disturbs the natural flow of blood in the body causing blood clots to appear. You can prevent the creation of blood clots in your legs by elevating your feet above heart level when reclining.
Is Reclining Healthier Than Sitting?
Reclining reduces pressure on the spine which leads to better stress-relief, relaxation, and heartbeat. According to studies, sitting normally puts 8 times more pressure on the spine as compared to sitting in a reclined position and ensures you get the best rest while releasing tension in the muscles.