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Abstract

Sixteen college students (8 male, 8 female) sat with their lower legs exposed and typed text under two conditions: feet on a static footrest and feet on an identical dynamic footrest that passively moved the feet. Under both conditions, changes in calf volume, ankle circumference, calfskin temperature, postural adjustments of the lower limbs and typing performance were measured. Results suggest that the dynamic footrest improved lower leg circulation. Calfskin surface temperature was significantly higher with the dynamic footrest. There was an interaction of calf circumference change with condition, order and time-of-day. There was a marginally significant overall calf circumference change with the footrest. There was significantly less voluntary movement with the dynamic footrest. There was no significant effect of the dynamic footrest on ankle circumference or typing performance.

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Test of a Dynamic Footrest on Leg Swelling in Sedentary Computer Workers

Abstract

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