Swollen feet can be a problem for many of us. Swelling in the feet can be due to various reasons. Some of the common ones can be due to increased weight during pregnancy, during road travel and air travel. Swelling can cause a lot of discomfort in the ankles and creates some problems like the shoes do not fit, the socks can leave marks around the ankles and sometimes pain in the feet. This swelling is called as edema and can be uncomfortable and can cause irregular blood supply in the legs. This swelling can be an alarming situation for a particular disease and should not be neglected. Have a word with your doctor regarding the swelling and understand the causes.
Some home care tips and simple remedies can help you reduce the swelling.
- Water splashed on the feet and ankles can be very useful. Swimming or sitting in bathtubs can help the reduction of swelling. Water can also help your circulatory system and it can be practiced regularly. Soaking your feet in a hot water tub with some Epsom salt in it is the best way to treat the swelling. Adding some salt in the bath tub can also give a relaxed feel and reduce the swelling.
- Start some exercise, especially yoga has proved to be very useful in swelling related issues. It can increase flexibility and help improve the circulatory system of a person. If you have practiced yoga earlier, then you can try again at home. The beginners are advised to take a class first as they have to learn the right way to do it. Yoga has some breathing techniques and it has to be done correctly. The poses and postures if done correctly can show great results.
- A massage therapy session can be great cure for swollen feet and ankles. Discuss with the therapist the problem areas and why you want to get the massage. The therapist can concentrate on the areas which needs attention. Pregnant women have to deal with the swelling from a prenatal therapy expert and no other massage therapist can handle a swelling of a pregnant woman.
- Whenever you get a chance, try to put your feet at a higher level. Gravity does not go well with swelling and use pillows, chairs or some high area to elevate our feet. Working people can use chairs and tables. Pillows can be used when you are at home. This elevation can make a huge difference.
- Drink around 8 to 10 glasses of water every day. High fluid intake can contribute to reduce the swelling. It also detoxifies the body and throws out excess toxins and salts in the body. Foods that have anti inflammatory properties can also be used to reduce swelling. They are cucumber and lemon. They can be added in food or sips of lemon water can be taken in breaks.
- Make changes in some food habits and reduce the salt intake in your food. Potato chips and salted peanuts can be avoided as it has extra salt sprinkled on it. These small things may help reduce the swelling.
In this way, a few changes in your diet, exercise, life style and postures can help you avoid swollen feet without making a big hole in your pocket.