Limb Swelling: Causes and Solutions for Office Workers

Q: Limb Swelling: Causes and Solutions for Office Workers

Hello： If this continues, it would be safer to go to the hospital for a detailed examination. <br>For example, low albumin levels can also cause lower extremity edema and low blood pressure. <br>Thank you for your message!

Swelling of the limbs?

I have to sit for long periods at work, and after each shift, I notice that my entire foot is much more swollen than in the morning.
When I press on it, it doesn't take long to rebound, but it's clearly different from how my foot looked in the morning.
The soles of my feet also show swelling, and I feel as if my limbs are heavy and weak, as if they are filled with lead.
I previously underwent urine and blood tests, and the doctor said there were no issues with my metabolism or kidneys.
Could this be a problem with blood circulation? Is there any way to improve this? Additionally, I measured my blood pressure recently, and my lowest reading was only 50, which seems significantly lower than normal.
I wonder if this is related or if it could indicate a heart issue?

Jiajia, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/22

Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine

Hello: If this continues, it would be safer to go to the hospital for a detailed examination.
For example, low albumin levels can also cause lower extremity edema and low blood pressure.
Thank you for your message!

Reply Date: 2015/09/22

More Info

Limb swelling, particularly in the legs and feet, is a common issue for office workers who spend long hours sitting. This condition, often referred to as peripheral edema, can be attributed to several factors, including prolonged immobility, poor circulation, and lifestyle choices. In your case, the swelling you experience at the end of the workday, along with the sensation of heaviness in your limbs, suggests that blood circulation may indeed be a contributing factor.

When you sit for extended periods, gravity causes blood and other fluids to pool in your lower extremities. This pooling can lead to swelling, which may be more pronounced after a long day at work. The fact that your legs return to their normal size relatively quickly after you press on them indicates that the swelling is likely due to fluid accumulation rather than a more serious underlying condition. However, it is essential to consider other potential causes, such as venous insufficiency, where the veins struggle to return blood to the heart, or lymphatic issues that can also lead to swelling.

To improve your condition, consider implementing the following strategies:
1. Frequent Movement: Make it a habit to stand up and move around every 30 to 60 minutes. Simple activities like walking around the office or doing calf raises can stimulate circulation and help reduce swelling.

2. Leg Elevation: When sitting or resting, elevate your legs to encourage fluid return to the upper body. You can use a footrest or stack some books under your feet.

3. Compression Stockings: Wearing compression stockings can help improve blood flow in your legs and reduce swelling. These stockings apply gentle pressure to the legs, which can assist in venous return.

4. Hydration and Diet: Ensure you are drinking enough water throughout the day. A well-hydrated body can help maintain proper fluid balance. Additionally, reducing salt intake can help minimize fluid retention.

5. Exercise: Regular physical activity is crucial for overall circulation. Incorporate aerobic exercises, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, into your routine. Strength training can also be beneficial.

6. Posture and Ergonomics: Pay attention to your sitting posture. Ensure your workstation is ergonomically designed to promote good posture, which can help reduce strain on your legs and back.

Regarding your blood pressure readings, a diastolic blood pressure of 50 mmHg is indeed lower than the typical range. Low diastolic pressure can sometimes be associated with inadequate blood flow to the organs, which could contribute to feelings of heaviness and fatigue. It is essential to monitor your blood pressure regularly and consult with a healthcare professional if you continue to experience low readings or if you have concerns about your heart health.

In summary, while your symptoms may be related to blood circulation issues due to prolonged sitting, it is essential to adopt preventive measures and lifestyle changes to alleviate swelling and improve your overall well-being. If symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation by a healthcare provider is recommended to rule out any underlying conditions.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Limb Pain: Causes and Solutions for Office Workers

Hello Doctor: I am a working professional, and most of my job involves typing. In recent years, I have been experiencing persistent soreness in my limbs, which sometimes leads to sleepless nights (last year it was more pronounced during holidays, while this year it occurs intermi...

Dr. Zhang Yuzhang reply Rehabilitation
Your symptoms appear to be caused by chronic muscle overuse and poor posture. It is recommended that you get up and move around every half to one hour, and perform some stretching exercises (for your back, shoulders, and upper limbs) to allow your muscles to contract and relax re...

Understanding Leg Swelling: Causes and Rehabilitation Solutions

Hello Director Chen: Recently, my leg swells and feels very sore whenever I stand for a short time, walk slowly, or sit for more than 30 minutes. Could this be due to embolism? What can I do to improve this? Thank you!

Dr. Chen Xianchang reply Rehabilitation
Hello, ma'am: Thank you for your inquiry. I would like to address your question and provide the following suggestions: 1. Possible causes include: A. Poor circulation due to aging of the venous or lymphatic valves. B. Lumbar disc herniation or degenerative arthriti...

Understanding Leg Weakness: Causes and Solutions for Office Workers

Hello Doctor: I am 30 years old and work in a sales position, but I do not have to attend social gatherings. I usually go to bed before midnight. My job often requires prolonged sitting. After taking a few months off from work, I returned to find that I frequently experience weak...

Dr. Wu Fangcan reply Family Medicine
According to your description: Is it possible that you are not getting enough sunlight, lacking exercise, or have an unbalanced diet with a deficiency in B vitamins? Or could it be Monday syndrome? Please consult a family medicine physician for evaluation and assessment. Thank yo...

Understanding Limb Edema: Causes, Treatments, and When to Seek Help

I have been experiencing erysipelas in my left foot, which sometimes causes pain, prompting me to take anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by the hospital. When the pain is more severe, I also receive anti-inflammatory injections, which provide some relief. This condition has...

Dr. Chen Zonglin reply Family Medicine
In assessing edema, in addition to the commonly known evaluation of kidney function, it may also be necessary to assess liver function. Furthermore, some cases may involve issues related to blood vessels or lymphatic vessels. As mentioned in your text, it is difficult to assist y...