Antiswelling effect of StepIt--an active foot pump system.
BACKGROUND
StepIt is a device for active movement of the foot that simulates normal walking with calf muscle contractions.


METHODS
In 40 healthy volunteers with predominantly office work and sitting conditions, StepIt was used regularly for 1 day, and the volume of the calf, approximated to a truncated cone, was measured before and after using StepIt. One leg was used as a control, and after 5 days, the exercise was repeated, with the other leg as the control.


RESULTS
The volume of the leg increased during the day and the increase was significantly smaller in the leg that used StepIt.


CONCLUSIONS
By using a device for active foot movement in healthy people, it is possible, in some individuals, to reduce the swelling that occurs during sitting conditions.
Bergqvist
David
D
Department of Surgery, Academic Hospital, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden. david.bergqvist@surgsci.uu.se
D000328:Adult; D004487:Edema / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000517:prevention & control; D004864:Equipment and Supplies; D005260:Female; D005534:Foot Diseases / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009068:Movement; D009119:Muscle Contraction; D055815:Young Adult