Can Revitive Cause Blood Clots? Safety Tips and Precautions

What is Revitive?

Revitive is a popular over-the-counter EMS device. It looks like a pair of rubber sandals embedded with electrodes. You place your feet on the electrodes and turn on the device to receive electrical stimulation to your leg and foot muscles.

This stimulation causes your lower leg and foot muscles to contract and relax repeatedly, which enhances blood circulation. Improved circulation can help reduce swelling, alleviate achy muscles, and potentially prevent varicose veins and blood clots.

However, there are some concerns around EMS devices like Revitive increasing the risk of blood clots in certain individuals. Lets analyze this potential risk.

Do EMS Devices Like Revitive Cause Blood Clots?

Currently there is no strong evidence showing that using Revitive or similar EMS devices directly causes blood clots in the legs or lungs.

In fact, their intended purpose is typically the opposite to enhance circulation and prevent blood clots from forming.

But experts have raised concerns that the electrical muscle stimulation used by these devices could theoretically disrupt blood flow in a way that promotes clot development, especially in high-risk individuals.

So while EMS devices dont directly cause clots, there are certain risk factors to consider for blood clot safety when using Revitive.

Risk Factors to Consider

Its possible that Revitive and similar EMS devices could interact with existing risk factors for blood clots, including:

• A history of blood clots
• Conditions like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
• Taking birth control pills
• Obesity
• Recent surgery, especially orthopedic procedures
• Family history of blood clots
• Smoking
• Advanced age
• Prolonged immobility

For those already at increased clotting risk, some doctors recommend avoiding EMS devices or using them cautiously under medical supervision.

How EMS Could Contribute to Clot Risk

Lets look at how electrical muscle stimulation theoretically interacts with blood clot risk factors:

1. Disrupting blood flow

The alternating muscle contractions and relaxations caused by EMS leads to unnatural surges and restrictions in blood flow. This irregular blood movement may damage vessel linings and create oxidative stress both factors involved in clot formation.

2. Increasing inflammation

Some research indicates EMS can raise levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Inflammation is an important contributor to hypercoagulability the excessive clotting seen in conditions like DVT.

3. Aggravating existing clots

In someone who already has a DVT or partially obstructed blood vessels, EMS stimulation near the site could potentially worsen the blockage or dislodge it to form a pulmonary embolism.

However, its unclear if this effect is significant or mainly theoretical. One small study found no negative impact of EMS on existing blood clots after orthopedic surgery.

4. Limiting movement

Using an EMS device often involves prolonged sitting still with legs immobile in one position. Lack of movement for an extended time raises clotting risk, especially in high-risk groups.

For these reasons, some medical experts advise EMS device users who are at increased risk to take safety precautions or avoid this type of therapy altogether.

Safe Use of EMS Devices Like Revitive

Despite the theoretical risks, most physicians agree that electronic muscle stimulators are safe for the average healthy individual to use as directed.

But those at higher risk of blood clots should take precautions, which may include:

• Talking to your doctor before trying Revitive or similar EMS devices
• Avoiding use within a month after surgery or while on bed rest
• Using for only short sessions of 15-20 minutes maximum
• Taking movement breaks every 5-10 minutes while using the device
• Proper hydration and avoiding crossed legs during use
• Carefully monitoring for any symptoms of clots like unexplained swelling, pain, warmth, or redness in the legs or chest symptoms like coughing and difficulty breathing

Discuss your risk profile and the safety of EMS device use with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if a product like Revitive is appropriate in your individual case.

Signs of Blood Clots to Watch For

While unlikely in most users, its important to monitor for any signs of a blood clot after using Revitive or a similar EMS device, including:

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

• Swelling in one leg or only part of one leg
• Warmth and skin discoloration (redness) in the leg
• Leg pain or tenderness only while standing or walking, not at rest

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

• Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Chest pain, especially when breathing deeply
• Rapid heart rate and lightheadedness
• Coughing up blood

Seek urgent medical help if you experience any symptoms of a DVT or PE, as these are medical emergencies requiring treatment right away.

Alternative Therapies Without Blood Clot Risks

For those who want to avoid the theoretical risks of EMS devices, there are some alternatives to improve leg circulation without electrical stimulation:

• Compression stockings - Gradient compression socks promote blood flow in the legs.
• Massage - Gentle massage helps venous circulation and may reduce swelling.
• Elevating legs - Lie down and raise your legs above heart level to utilize gravity.
• Exercise - Movement, walking, and strength training boost healthy circulation.
• Water immersion - Spending time in a warm Epsom salt bath can enhance blood flow.

Certain supplements like horse chestnut seed extract, butchers broom, and omega-3 fatty acids may also help with circulation. But check with your doctor first before using supplements, especially if taking blood thinners.

Who Should Not Use EMS Devices?

Due to the theoretical risks, the following groups may want to avoid using EMS stimulators like Revitive unless cleared by their physician:

• Those with a history of DVT, PE, or other clotting disorders
• People who have had joint replacement, orthopedic surgery, or fractures within the past month
• Individuals with peripheral artery disease or venous insufficiency
• Anyone with a pacemaker or implanted medical device
• Those with epilepsy or seizures
• People with decreased skin sensitivity or open wounds
• Pregnant women
• Those currently experiencing unexplained swelling or pain in the legs

EMS devices like Revitive involve electrical currents, so they should not be used directly over swollen, infected, or compromised skin. Use caution over sensitive areas like the chest or carotid arteries in the neck, keeping stimulation isolated to the limbs/feet.

Key Takeaways on EMS and Blood Clots

In summary:

• There is no conclusive evidence showing EMS devices like Revitive directly cause blood clots when used appropriately.
• But theoretical risks exist like disruption of blood flow, especially in people already at increased clotting risk.
• Those at higher risk may want to avoid EMS or use cautiously under medical supervision.
• Proper hydration, movement breaks, and short treatment sessions are advised as precautions.
• Monitor for any symptoms of DVT or PE after use and report them urgently.
• Discuss risks vs. benefits with your healthcare provider.

While convenient at-home circulation devices can provide symptom relief for many, take care to minimize any theoretical increase in blood clot risks based on your individual health profile and risk factors.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.