Explain to us what the phenomenon of heavy legs is
It is a sensation of heaviness, an unpleasant, even painful burning sensation in the lower limbs, which can be accompanied by numbness, tingling, as well as cramps and swelling. This is indicative of a buildup of toxins in the tissues. Hence, a worsening of symptoms at the end of the day. This is related to poor functioning of the lymphatic vessels and venous return.
Tell us about how blood circulation works
Blood circulation takes place via a complex network of vessels:
the arteries : they bring blood to the tissues and organs to nourish them with oxygen and nutrients; these are damaged by atheroma (remodeling of the artery walls by accumulation of lipids, complex carbohydrates, blood and then limestone deposits) hence the importance of a balanced diet limiting fast sugars and trans fats which are the cause of this pathology.
the veins : they bring blood back from the feet to the heart (return circulation), so that the waste and carbon dioxide released by the cells are purified
Lymphatic vessels: These circulate lymph. This is a clear fluid that contains lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell that fights germs, foreign substances, and abnormal cells such as cancer cells.
What are the factors that contribute to heavy legs?
For good venous return, good tone of the venous walls and valves (small flaps) present in the veins are required, which fight against gravity and bring the blood from the feet back up to the heart, a venous “pump” activated when walking by the pressure on the arch of the foot and the muscular contractions of the leg. Therefore, any prolonged standing or sitting (shopkeepers, hairdressers, office workers, etc.) disrupts this process.
The lymphatic system has 3 functions:
1- preservation of the balance of body fluids,
2 - tissue nutrition
3 - defense of the body at the intestinal level by absorbing fats
The lymph brings back proteins from the capillaries maintaining tissue homeostasis (balance). When this drainage no longer works, edema is created which will have repercussions at the cardiac level.
The lymphatic system is important for immunity because it transports antigens from the tissues to the lymph node where the cells that will trigger the immune defenses are located, called lymphocytes.
Cellulite : We must not forget to talk about this rather feminine problem. It is characterized by the appearance of dimples and an orange peel appearance on the skin. Although the causes of cellulite vary from one woman to another: heredity, retention, hormonal disorders , it is often linked to circulatory disorders (venous, capillary or lymphatic), and can contribute to heavy leg pain.
How can this be remedied?
With hygiene and dietary rules:
- Wearing support tights or stockings in the cold season saves the venous system, eliminates edema and thus prevents swelling of the leg.
For those who enjoy running or team sports, some will find it comfortable to wear support, but others will experience pain, so don't wear them. In any case, wearing support for recovery is very beneficial.
- raise the feet of the bed to promote venous return
- take a cold shower in the morning to tone the vessel walls
- promote good intestinal transit
- regular sporting activity , if possible in water.
- practice yoga , taking care to perform inverted postures
- the bike
Explain to us how a regular massage with a suitable oil can relieve this phenomenon?
The massage will be performed by professionals aiming at lymphatic drainage and venous return to prevent fluid accumulation in interstitial tissues.
For edema of lymphatic origin, manual lymphatic drainage is necessary . It will open the cisterns and therefore affect the entire body. It will need to be performed regularly and followed by strong support.
But you can also do a self-massage at home
The right actions:
- Raise your legs and apply the toning massage oil .
- Drain by moving down from the ankle to the top of the thigh, with both hands making small circles, pressing vigorously with the fingertips (without hurting yourself).
To reduce the effect of heavy legs:
Take the foot between both hands and press the arch of the foot with all your fingers (as if you were squeezing a sponge), firmly but without forcing. The massage can be done with gentle rocking movements back and forth; this movement facilitates slow, well-measured pressure, without effort. Then move your hands several times, from the toes to the heel, alternating left and right, without really losing contact.
for 5 minutes, to be repeated every evening