Ways To Improve Poor Circulation

Frequently Change Sitting Position

A helpful tip for individuals looking to improve their circulation is to frequently change their sitting position when sitting for long periods while working, traveling, or in any other circumstance. Sitting for long periods requires the full effort of multiple muscles around the body to support the neck, shoulders, and trunk in an upright position. When an individual is in a fixed sitting position for extended periods, the blood vessels that feed these muscles are squeezed and become compressed. This vessel compression means circulation to these muscles is significantly reduced, cutting off their oxygen supply. Inadequate oxygen supply to the muscles required for holding a sitting position causes an individual to feel fatigued and can result in poor posture. The flow of blood also slows down because sitting has less of a demand on the circulatory system than standing or walking does. The veins in the thighs are often under pressure when sitting because individuals who sit for long periods tend to have their chairs at a higher position. Frequently repositioning the legs, pelvis, feet, and torso can help enhance blood circulation when sitting for extended periods.

Medication For Underlying Cause

The circulatory system in an individual's body is responsible for the transport of blood, nutrients, and oxygen to all of the tissues throughout their body. Poor circulation is actually a symptom or complication of other health problems rather than a type of medical condition itself. It is critical that the underlying causes of poor circulation in affected individual be addressed with treatment, which may include medication. Medical conditions that can cause poor circulation that often require medication include peripheral artery disease, atherosclerosis, heart abnormalities, hypertension, diabetes, conditions that cause abnormal blood clotting, venous valve failure, and Raynaud's disease. It is imperative that medications such as blood pressure-reducing drugs and cholesterol-lowering drugs be taken as directed to prevent further problems with circulation. It is critical for diabetes patients to take insulin as directed to avoid neuropathy-related circulation problems. Individuals prone to the formation of blood clots should take blood-thinning medications as directed to prevent clots from developing.