A leg elevation pillow for circulation can be used to increase circulation throughout your entire body. But to improve circulation, you’ve got to have the right pillow, AND be using it correctly.
Correctly positioning a pillow for leg circulation
When it comes to decreasing swelling and increasing blood flow in the lower body, a leg elevation pillow for circulation is a tool you need. When looking for a pillow to improve leg circulation, it is essential to get one that is the right size. Once you get a leg elevation pillow that is the right size, you’ve got to know how to position it correctly.
Here is how you master the art of leg elevation pillow size and positioning:
- The pillow should run from your gluteal fold to your Achilles tendon.
- The contours of the leg elevation pillow should align with the center of the knee joint and the Achilles tendon.
- The pillow shape should be such that the foot is resting at the highest point of the pillow.
Sizing a leg elevation pillow for circulation
When determining what size leg circulation pillow you need, measure from your gluteal fold to your Achilles tendon. Then, compare that length to the length of the leg elevation pillow you are looking at. This can give you a general guideline for how long a pillow you need.
At Wedge Pillow Solutions, we carry two lengths of leg elevation pillows so we can accommodate all lengths of legs! We have an exact sizing guide for our contoured leg elevation pillow. This is so you can be sure that you are ordering the correct size leg wedge pillow for your legs!
A leg elevation pillow for circulation should also have a minimum height of 4 inches. This is an adequate height to ensure that there will be enough angle to properly help with circulation. Keep in mind, four inches is the minimal height, leg wedges that are higher are great too!
Get a pillow for leg circulation made of high quality foam
If you are going to buy a leg circulation pillow, get one made with a high quality foam. Higher end foams don’t break down over time. They also offer your legs great support while you elevate.
Not only are high quality foams supportive, they are comfortable! If you get a foam that naturally conforms to your body, you don’t have to worry about whether you are maximizing support and comfort because….you ARE!
Now, when you look for a leg elevation pillow for circulation, you know what length it should be, how it should be positioned, and what quality to look for so your pillow works the most effectively!
-Bryan Blare, Doctor of Physical Therapy