7 common mistakes to avoid when using foot massagers

7 common mistakes to avoid when using foot massagers

Nothing beats the relief one gets from using a foot massager after a long, tiring day. Even a short massage session with it can rejuvenate aching muscles. But things can quickly go wrong if the massager is not used properly. A small mistake while using the massager can damage it and put the user at risk. To avoid this, it helps to be aware of the common mistakes people make when using a foot massager.

1. Not reading the user manual of the foot massager
Never skip going through the manual that comes in the box. Not reading through it means missing out on important instructions on using the massager properly. Aside from this, the manual has all the information on maintaining the massager to last longer. Along with reading the instructions, users should also go through the precautions listed in the manual to avoid accidents.

2. Spilling liquids on the massager
Many people think having a beverage in hand while using a foot massager is a good idea. After all, sipping on a favorite tea or drink while massaging aching muscles and tissues can be quite relaxing. But this can turn out to be a grave mistake. One may accidentally spill liquid on the massager. This will not only cause damage to internal parts of the massager but can also create the risk of electrical hazards.

3. Using too much pressure
It seems logical that the more pressure put on the aching tissues, the more effective it is at relieving pain. However, applying too much can only cause discomfort and even injury. Always use steady and gentle pressure while using the foot massager. After all, the purpose of the massager is to alleviate the pain instead of aggravating it.

4. Forgetting to adjust the speeds
Most electric foot massagers come with settings for multiple speeds. The different settings are for adjusting the intensity of pressure on the muscles and tissues. For example, softer tissues in the calf require pressure at lower speeds to prevent any injury. On the other hand, harder tissues on the heel of the foot may need slightly higher speed for quicker relief. Therefore, trying out and adjusting the speeds while using the massager is important.

5. Focusing on one area for too long
When the pain is of high intensity, focusing on the single point of tension usually feels good. So, one puts pressure on that point with the massager for too long. But this can overstimulate the muscle and cause discomfort. Sometimes, bruising may also occur. So, always move around the massager over the muscles near the point of tension.

6. Neglecting to use the correct attachment
Many foot massagers often have multiple attachments in the box. Each has its own purpose. For example, there might be a ball attachment for large muscle groups or a pointed-tip attachment for acupressure points. It is important to use the correct attachment every time to avoid discomfort or the risk of injury.

7. Storing the foot massager incorrectly
Foot massagers come with their own box or covers. These protect the machine from dust, humidity, and extreme temperatures. Not storing the massager in this way can cause damage. Thus, one may not be able to use it for a long time.

Recommended

Learn about these 3 types of hearing loss

Learn about these 3 types of hearing loss

Hearing loss, deafness, or impairment is the partial or total inability to hear sounds. People with low to moderate hearing impairment face challenges in understanding what the other person is saying in a noisy environment. Whereas, people with severe deafness cannot hear anything, and rely completely on lip-reading and sign language skills. There are three main types of hearing loss: sensorineural, conductive, and a combination of both. Let’s understand these types in detail and learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of each type. Sensorineural hearing loss It’s the most common type of hearing loss. Sensorineural is permanent hearing loss often caused by damage to the tiny hair cells that line the inner ear or the auditory nerve. The damage stops or weakens the transfers of nerve signals to the brain. These signals are essentially the intensity and clarity of sounds. Causes: Aging and exposure to loud noises for a long period of time are the most common cause of the damage. Certain medications and illnesses can also increase risks. It can even be genetic, and pass on to the child in the mother’s womb. Treatment: There is no medical or surgical treatment available to repair the tiny hair cells once they’re damaged.
Simple lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of heart diseases

Simple lifestyle changes that reduce the risk of heart diseases

The heart is the most crucial organ in the body and as the system will cease to function if the heart stops or loses momentum pumping fresh oxygenated blood. This is why it is vital to not neglect your heart health at all and responsibly maintain a healthy, stress-free, and more importantly, a happy lifestyle. Here are a few simple lifestyle changes that will help support a healthy heart function. Switch to a healthy diet Avoid eating foods that are rich in trans and saturated fats. Most foods you find on the shelves of the supermarket contain large quantities of one or the other. Instead, switch to low-fat high fiber alternatives to help manage cholesterol. Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level in the body automatically reduces the risk of heart diseases. The simple reason for this is that fats that normally block major arteries and blood vessels are eliminated from these foods choices. It is also advisable to limit the salt (sodium) intake to control blood pressure and sugar to reduce the risk of diabetes simultaneously. Change certain lifestyle habits Reduce the number of alcoholic or carbonated drinks you have regularly. For men, it is advisable to have not more than two drinks and day and women must have only one.
How to distinguish between heartburn and GERD

How to distinguish between heartburn and GERD

Heartburn is an unpleasant, burning sensation in the chest that is more common than a lot of individuals realize. Pregnant women, older men, and even young adults experience it frequently. Despite it being such a prevalent experience, not many know that heartburn has actually nothing to do with the heart and everything to do with the stomach and the esophagus. Unsurprisingly enough, heartburn is also used interchangeably with GERD. But, before we get to deciphering heartburn and GERD, let’s understand what acid reflux is. What is acid reflux or GER? Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter or LES becomes weak, allowing the contents of the stomach to travel in the wrong direction, back up the esophagus. Acid reflux is also called GER or gastroesophageal reflux as it involves the stomach and esophagus. This condition can usually be resolved with over-the-counter medication. What is heartburn? Heartburn is a burning or painful sensation that is experienced in the chest. Since the lining of the esophagus is not as strong as the lining of the stomach, the acid from the stomach can cause a burning sensation in the chest. This pain or burning sensation that is heartburn can often be misconstrued for a heart attack.
5 common joint conditions and how to treat them

5 common joint conditions and how to treat them

A joint or articulation is made from two bones that aid the body in movement. There are many forms of joint conditions, which, in many cases, arise from the wear and tear of bones. Arthritis is one of the major and most common health conditions in the country, and its intensity increases with age. Here are some common types of joint conditions that you need to know: Osteoarthritis With almost 10 percent of men and 13 percent of women aged over 60 suffering from osteoarthritis, it is one of the most prevalent joint conditions in the country. Osteoarthritis occurs due to the wear and tear of the cartilages that protect the ends of bones. It commonly affects joints of the spine, hands, hips, and knees. If left untreated, this wear and tear of the cartilage soon leads to bone degeneration, thereby affecting flexibility and range of movement. Treatment for osteoarthritis depends on its severity and the patient’s age. Mild symptoms can be treated through medications, physiotherapy, and changes in lifestyle, whereas moderate to severe cases may require surgical intervention. Spondyloarthritis Spondyloarthritis, also referred to as spondyloarthropathy, is a type of rheumatic disease that causes inflammation in various joints. There are two types of spondyloarthritis—axial spondyloarthritis, which causes inflammation of the joints in the chest, spine, and hip bone, and peripheral spondyloarthritis, which causes inflammation in the fingers, knees, and toes.
Tips to help you strengthen your immune system

Tips to help you strengthen your immune system

Natural selection has transformed the way in which the human immune system works. While some human genes have evolved to become immune to certain diseases, others have not. This leaves a whole lot of people prone to certain diseases and disorders. That said, there are ways to boost the immune system, improve one’s diet, and lead a healthier lifestyle. Here are a few simple steps that you can take to strengthen the immune system: Ensure adequate sleep There are quite a few studies that prove the relationship between adequate sleep and the strength of the immune system. As an adult, you should ensure that you get seven to eight hours of sleep every night. A teenager should get eight to ten hours of sleep, whereas a young child should get at least 14 hours of sleep on a daily basis. If you have disturbed or no sleep, then you can improve your sleep cycle with these quick tips: Try sleeping in a room that is completely dark Get to bed at the same time every night. This will help regulate your sleep pattern Avoid using electronics that emit blue light before bed Maintain a diet of fruits and vegetables Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains contain essential minerals, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
8 lesser-known facts about the liver

8 lesser-known facts about the liver

Considered the second-largest organ in the body, the liver plays an extremely important role in a variety of functions. It is key to the body’s metabolism; and helps burn fat and maintain body weight. It is located above the stomach and beneath the diaphragm, its size similar to that of a football. While such information is common knowledge, there are a few not-so-known facts about this organ. Read on to find out more: It is the only organ that can regenerate Unlike any other organ, the liver has the miraculous ability to regenerate and regrow, needing just 25 percent of the original tissue to do so. According to a study, evolutionary safeguards are responsible for this effect, which is a central concept behind liver transplants. It is the body’s detox center The liver filters everything we eat and drink, ridding the body of the materials that are not meant for it. It first burns toxins using enzymes and oxygen. This is followed by the second step, which combines toxins with amino acids that are later flushed out through urine or bile. It is multifunctional Identified as one of the most complex organs in the body, the liver performs hundreds of vital functions.