are foot massagers safe to use

Posted by bausch @bausch, Mar 8 3:33pm

I am prediabetic with an A!C of 6.5. I am also on blood thinner for a blood clot I had in my lung, that most likely came from my varicose veins four years ago. Is it safe to use a foot massager to relieve my stiff feet because of my other conditions that I mentioned. And if so, what kind would you recommend. Thanks

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John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Mar 8 6:56pm

Welcome @bausch, I think this is a medical question you really need to discuss with your doctor or primary care team. I had a DVT from a blood clot in my leg and another one that showed up a little later in my lungs last fall and have been on a blood thinner for a little over 4 months. I also have lymphedema in my legs and wear compression socks to control the swelling but I have given the leg with the DVT a hand massage and used a variable compression leg wrap shortly after I had the blood clot to help with the leg swelling during the day and my care team OKed the use of the device.

Here's some information on the topic but I highly recommend talking with your doctor first.

"Can you have a massage on blood thinners?
Massages at a later date and while taking a blood thinner are not prohibited, but more forceful deep tissue massage that could cause bruising or bleeding should be avoided on blood thinners."
--- Vascular Disease Patient Information Page: A guide for patients with newly diagnosed deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10559639/

How long has it been since the blood clot was found?

bausch | @bausch | Mar 9 10:33am

5 years ago. But my doctor wanted me to stay on warfarin.

John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | Mar 9 10:54am

In reply to @bausch "5 years ago. But my doctor wanted me to stay on warfarin." + (show)

I have an upcoming ultrasound in April and suspect that I may have to stay on blood thinners also.

whisperthecat07 | @whisperthecat07 | 4 days ago

Also a massive blood clot survivor 31 years ago. Got lymphedema two and a half years ago. My doctor did not know that is what I had. Many months later and an ultrasound I had two new clots. Finally a vascular surgeon told me I had lymphedema. In all those years no one even mentioned that word. It is hard and painful. My clots are now residual. Thank god for compression hose.