Revitive scam

 Ads are appearing on TV and other places for a machine that supposedly improves peripheral circulation, specifically to the calves, and thereby alleviating a rather vague list of conditions said to be due to "poor circulation". Interestingly the only circulatory condition actually known to cause serious symptoms, peripheral vascular disease, is not mentioned in their promotional material. But they claim that it is highly effective for "tired legs", whatever that means.

So how does this device supposedly work. It's nothing more than an electrical muscle stimulator. The idea is that stimulating the muscles to ryhthmically contract , stimulating the muscle pump, and thereby increasing blood flow through the calf muscles. A similar effect is achieved during surgery using intermittent inflation of pneumatic boots. (Flowtron)

Revitive quote a number of research papers on their web site, but on inspection these papers are not good quality. None of the studies are blinded. Bearing in mind sham treatment is not felt, while actual treatment entails giving electric shocks it's difficult to see how it could be. Also most of the papers refer to it's use in varicose veins, which are asymptomatic in most patients. 

A good summary of the evidential basis for this device can be found here.

The only condition where the pathophysiology is one of reduced circulation is peripheral vascular disease. The use of a revitive device would increase oxygen usage within the calves, without increasing blood flow, and make symptoms considerably worse. For this reason peripheral vascular disease is considered a contraindication to the use of Flowtron in surgery.

And if you don't have peripheral vascular disease increasing blood flow through you calves is going to have bugger all benefit. You could achieve just the same effect by periodically rocking on your feet, or even just flexing and extending your feet without even leaving your bed.

The Revitive device is a complete scam. An ineffective waste of money. There is a way that you can increase the circulation through your calves for free, and also improve your cardiovascular health, and your general well being.

Go for a nice walk. Every day. Preferably with a dog.