Who Recommends Using Footstools?
The medical benefits of using a footstool are perhaps not as well known as they should be. In this piece we demonstrate which organisations recommend using footstools, who should use one and why they are beneficial to health and well being. During infancy, when mothers are bottle or breast feeding their child, the World Health Organisation recommends using footstools to ensure the baby’s bottom is well supported. This is not only beneficial to the mother by preventing back problems it allows for better bonding between mother and child. In the United Kingdom, the National Health Service (NHS) also recommends a footstool to prevent back pain and sciatica and for treating the symptoms of lymphoedema by reducing pain and swelling of legs, knees and ankles. The NHS also recommends footstool use for improved wellbeing and relaxation to counter stress related illnesses, such as high blood pressure, anxiety, and depression. In the United States the American Heart Association recommends using a
