A foot stimulation machine is one of the most widely used equipment in modern therapy. It offers numerous benefits such as increased blood circulation, relieved pain and strengthened immunity. Moreover, it may reduce joint pain and swelling, and enhance muscle recovery. In this therapy, also known as Electric Muscle Stimulation (EMS), the machine transmits mild electrical currents to the targeted muscles. Patients may then feel a tingling sensation during the session.
People with compromised circulation and suffering from tired muscles often undergo EMS. As applied to the soles of the feet, the leg muscles begin to contract. This causes the calf, known as the second heart, to pump and boost blood flow. Thus, the stimulation improves lower limb circulation and muscle strength. The following sections will present the benefits of using a foot stimulation machine, how it works and its risks or side effects.
Using a Foot Stimulation Machine for Foot Pain
Foot massage is the conventional way to help with foot pain. But luckily, with technology, there are foot stimulation machines around to help achieve relief. They help release tension and relax the muscles in the lower limbs. Furthermore, the machines have two large electrode pads connected to the soles of the feet. They send electric impulses that patients may feel climbing up to the calves. Thus, it alleviates discomfort and enhances the rehabilitation of muscles.
The feet are one of the most used and hardworking body parts. Be it walking or running errands throughout the day, active in sports, or just standing due to the nature of one’s work; the feet work hard. They support the entire weight of a person’s body. Hence, they are prone to damage and tiredness. Fortunately, there are several home remedies you may do that can help reduce fatigue and pain, and relax your muscles.
Using a foot stimulation machine will not only massage the feet. It may also stimulate healthy muscles to improve performance and increase strength. Moreover, it may aid in recovery from fatigue and reduce stress. Generally, patients of all ages without underlying conditions may use this kind of treatment. Upon consultation, the doctor may also prescribe the best therapy to address a specific condition.
Other Benefits
EMS, through the use of a foot stimulation machine, provides numerous benefits including:
- Reduce joint pain and prevent swelling
- Restores muscle strength
- Reduces muscle spasms
- Relaxes muscle tensions
- Alleviate pain and fatigue
- Reaches a broader section of muscles in your legs and feet
- Improves blood circulation
Foot Stimulation Machine: How it Works
As a person feels pain in any body part, they may try to relax and massage it for a while. The same is true when the feet hurt. Fortunately, foot stimulation machines may aid you in fast recovery from fatigue. In this kind of therapy, two large pads are connected to the soles of the feet. These pads, called electrodes, transmit electrical impulses that run through your muscles and nerves. As a result, patients may feel tingling sensations.
Meanwhile, you can adjust these currents and other settings with a control unit. Different machines use different control devices. Others allow you to set a timer for a 15-minute massage, up to half an hour. Moreover, other devices have removable and washable pads for hygienic purposes. Nonetheless, the control settings adhere to the comfort of the patient undergoing the therapy.
Through EMS, patients may be able to restore muscle strength in the affected area. Foot stimulation machines allow them to experience a safe and convenient way of pain relief in the lower limbs. As mentioned, the electrical impulses pass through to the surface of the skin and also generate gentle vibrations for relaxation. In contrast with conventional massage, EMS provides faster and more effective relief from pain and fatigue in the feet caused by various conditions.
Common Causes of Foot Pain
As the feet are one of the most hardworking body parts, they are also prone to damage. They may be acute or chronic. Some common causes of foot pain include:
- Aching arches
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Prolonged standing
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Injury due to sports
- Bursitis or joint inflammation
Risks of Using a Foot Stimulation Machine
Using a foot stimulation machine is generally safe for most people. Patients may feel relieved from fatigue, improved muscle strength, and less tension in their legs and feet. In addition, they may feel harmless buzzing sensations. These may be adjusted for comfort. Moreover, the fact that it attaches pads to the surface of the skin makes it easy and convenient for external use. Essentially, it reaches only the muscle tissues as it stimulates healthy muscles.
However, prolonged usage of the device may result in complications, from mild to serious. This may include mild rashes or skin irritations in the feet area to which the electrodes are attached to. Thus, doctors may advise patients to check their skin periodically for redness during therapy. Moreover, patients may experience more fatigue when using stimulation machines over an extended period of time.
Overall, using a foot stimulation machine is an effective way to release tension and reduce fatigue in the feet. It is basically a modern touch of foot massage. The electrical impulses sent by the electrodes may be able to diminish muscle spasms and other pain conditions. However, overuse may result in other problems that may soon require other treatments. Additionally, it is important to know the specific pain area in the feet that needs treatment.
Other Side Effects
Prolonged usage of foot stimulation machines may result in the following:
- overfatigue – you may feel more tired than relaxed when you overuse a stimulation machine
- mild rashes
- frequent urination and bowel movement – this is due to the body’s effort to release toxins after the therapy
- headache or nausea
- sensitivity of the feet
Conclusion
Using a foot stimulation machine may be revolutionary in addressing foot pain. It presents several benefits, such as increased blood flow and circulation, relieved pain, and stronger muscles. It may also prevent swelling and help recover from fatigue. Furthermore, this EMS therapy uses large pads that send electrical currents to the feet that climb up to the calves. In addition, it causes the foot and calf muscles to contract. Thus, pumping and boosting oxygen-filled blood circulation in the lower limbs.
However, overuse may result in complications. Other patients may feel mild rashes in the feet area to which the electrodes are attached. Meanwhile, others may feel nauseous. There are also reports of frequent urination or bowel movement. But this is due to the body’s efforts of releasing toxins after the session. On the other hand, patients may also use iTENS to overcome foot pain.
