Movement is key; it not only reduces the perils of a sedentary lifestyle but also helps keep health parameters in check. So, when we came across an Instagram post on using vibration plates to keep the lower body engaged, we wanted to learn more. According to drainage and detox specialist Dr Caitlin Czezowski, vibration plates are a great way to help you move stagnant lymph. “The only way you are going to clear the fluid from your lower body (belly button and below),” said Dr Czezowski, sharing that swollen ankles and feet are a sign of fluid retention that can be cleared by diaphragmatic breathing or belly breathing, and then getting on the vibration plates, known to improve blood circulation.“Belly breathing helps create a suction pump, pulling that fluid up to the termini. When we don’t breathe properly, it’s hard for fluid in the lower half to drain. This is especially true if you have lipedema or lymphedema, which adds additional hurdles for drainage. If you have fluid in your legs, ankles, knees, lipedema, lymphedema, or anything else associated with a congested lower lymphatic system... Please look at how you are breathing. That could be causing you to struggle with draining that part of your body. Vibration plates effectively work when you breathe from your belly,” said Dr Czezowski.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.To understand more, let’s look at vibration plates.Dr Akhilesh Yadav, associate director, orthopaedics and joint replacement, Max Hospital, Vaishali, shared that vibration plates, which are widely used in fitness and rehabilitation facilities, are intended to activate muscles and enhance circulation through fast vibrations. All you need to do is switch on the machine after standing on it with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent. Let your body adjust to the vibrations, then continue for the recommended few minutes. Do you have swollen lymph? (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)“Depending on the underlying cause, they may be beneficial for strength training and muscle rehabilitation, but their ability to reduce foot swelling varies,” said Dr Yadav.Also Read | Fitness trainer shares 3 key measures to lose 6 per cent body fat in a monthAccording to him, when swelling is caused by poor circulation or fluid retention, the slow, gentle vibrations of a vibration plate could help improve lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling. “Before using a vibration plate for swollen feet, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare provider, particularly if the swelling is brought on by a medical condition like lymphedema or deep vein thrombosis,” said Dr Yadav, cautioning that sometimes, using a vibration plate could make the swelling worse or make you uncomfortable. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Drainage & Detox Specialist | Dr Caitlin Czezowski (@doc.talks.detox)For long-term relief from swollen feet, you must treat the underlying cause. “Vibration plates should only be used selectively and in conjunction with a thorough treatment plan under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Although they may improve circulation and muscle function, vibration plates may not be completely helpful for swollen feet,” said Dr Yadav.DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.