The colder months can be a particular challenge for those suffering with Raynaud’s, and although the condition rarely has serious effects, it can certainly be uncomfortable and painful.

There is no known cure for Raynaud’s, but the symptoms can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes, avoiding triggers and in more extreme cases, taking medication to help blood circulation.

Raynaud’s syndrome is a medical condition that affects blood circulation, specifically in the fingers and toes. It’s a condition that causes tiny blood vessels to constrict and can be triggered by the cold, emotional stress and anxiety, and can make your skin turn white or blue. Once the blood returns, the affected areas can become red, painful or numb and tingly.

There are two main types of the condition.

Primary Raynaud’s

Also known as Raynaud’s Disease is the most common form and isn’t the result of another medical condition. It can be mild enough that many people don’t seek treatment and can go away on its own.

Secondary Raynaud’s

Also known as Raynaud’s Phenomenon is a condition that develops because of another health condition. Although less common, it tends to be more serious with symptoms appearing later in life, around age 40.

Other symptoms of Raynaud’s Syndrome can include:

• Pain
• Numbness
• Pins and needles
• Difficulty moving the affected area
• Some people also find their ears, nose, lips or nipples are affected.

At HSL, we believe that your furniture should make you feel good and be beneficial for your well-being. That’s why all our furniture is designed for you, to ensure your body is fully supported.

Engaging with leading experts for cutting edge research to create furniture for posture and well-being. All our pieces are thoroughly evaluated by our independent Occupational Therapist so you can relax in comfort knowing that your furniture is approved by experts for your health.

Our chairs are backed by science and proven to reduce blood pressure, heart rate and increase tissue oxygenation. But what other benefits do our chairs have that can help prevent Raynaud’s?

1. Improves blood circulation

As Raynaud’s is a condition that effects blood circulation having the appropriate seat can help. Our chairs improve your blood circulation and blood pressure, making the symptoms of Raynaud’s more manageable with reduced pain. Sit back in a recliner armchair and enjoy the relief of comfort.

2. Improves breathing

Though the condition doesn’t directly affect breathing or lung health, our chairs provide stable, upright support that optimise lung and diaphragm function. Enabling you to practice mindful well-being and minimise triggering Raynaud’s through stress or anxiety. Find yourself relaxing in our snuggle chair and practice your breathing and meditation in comfort.

3. Pain relief

Raynaud’s pain is experienced as discomfort, with throbbing or tingling sensations. HSL chairs are designed to focus on 7 key areas of your body, relieving your body of pain and stress points. A range of our chairs feature reclining options to help improve your circulation and heat pads to relieve pain and reduce those cold triggers.

4. Improves muscle health 

Muscle weakness can be a symptom of secondary Raynaud’s or a related condition like connective tissue disease. HSL chairs improve muscle health by relieving pain and tension, so your body can stand up and sit down easier. Our chairs improve tissue oxygenation by more than 2%, meaning your muscles can recover faster and replenish energy.

5. Improves digestion

It is important to eat a healthy, balanced diet when you suffer from Raynaud’s. Having a working digestion system helps your body absorb important nutrients, warm spices including ginger and garlic are believed to boost circulation, and vitamin C is found to keep blood vessels healthy. HSL chairs promote a good posture and proper body alignment, preventing compression of abdominal organs and allowing for gut mobility.

6. Improves mobility

The pain and tension from Raynaud’s can significantly impact mobility and cause difficulty to fine motor tasks due to limited circulation affecting your hands and feet. Our chairs help mobility, whether from Riser Recliners getting you to your feet to features like our patented wooden knuckles to support your grip.

Our chairs are ergonomically designed with extra cushioning, recliner options and cutting-edge technology, improving your body’s physiology and preventing symptoms of Raynaud’s.

There are plenty of other ways to prevent Raynaud’s and have an active routine without pain and discomfort.

1. Keep your hands and feet warm and dry
2. Wear warm clothes / keep your home warm
3. Avoid cold items
4. Reduce stress and anxiety levels
5. Eat a healthy, balanced diet
6. Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine
7. Run warm water over your hands and feet
8. Don’t smoke
9. Stay active
10. Avoid quick temperature changes

Make sure to see your GP if your symptoms are getting worse, the condition affects your daily life or if your get symptoms for the first time.

For more wellness advice, head over to our Feel Good Hub. Check out our other related articles:

• Essential Tips for Caring for Elderly Parents at Home
• Understanding Mobility Issues in the Elderly
• How the Correct Chair can Improve Mobility and Independence

Medical Disclaimer

The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.

The publisher and authors are not responsible for any adverse effects resulting from the use of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed in this content. Reliance on any information provided herein is solely at your own risk.