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Cure For Feet Swelling

Swollen feet, or edema in the feet, is a common problem, especially for those who spend a good deal of time on their feet during the day, pregnant women, the elderly and those suffering from a particular type of disorder or injury. Temporary swelling can be treated quite easily. However, if the swelling does not go away or comes back immediately, your problem may be due to an underlying condition that requires medical attention. Cures for typical non-serious feet swelling involve easy home treatments.

  1. Soak Your Feet

    • Extreme hot or cold soaks are not a good idea but a warm foot bath containing Epsom salts may help ease the swelling. This also relaxes the muscles and promotes relaxation.

    Massage Your Feet

    • Ask a family member or other loved one for a foot massage. If you have never had a foot massage, you will be amazed at how good it feels. If there is no one around to give you foot rubs, you can always do it for yourself.

    Elevate Your Feet

    • Using a stool or pillows, elevate your legs above your midsection. Be sure to support your knees, or they will stiffen and feel sore. Keep your feet elevated for half an hour or more. If necessary, repeat this several times a day.

    Move Your Feet

    • If you sit for long periods of time, the swelling may be caused by simple gravity. Take frequent walks to keep the circulation going and try doing simple leg exercises that include placing yourself in a reclining position, lifting your feet, and making circles with your ankles. This type of exercise encourages blood flow and allows fluid to leave your feet.

    Wear Compression Stockings

    • Compression stockings encourage the flow of blood and lymphatic fluid out of your lower extremities. These can help relieve swollen feet and keep them from swelling in the first place.

    Avoid Salt

    • Salt is notorious for causing the body to retain water. Reducing salt intake may make a dramatic difference in the swelling of your feet.

    See Your Doctor

    • If you have been injured and suspect a sprained or broken foot or ankle, apply ice and see your doctor as soon as possible.

      You may need diuretics but it is not a good idea to take them without first talking to your doctor. Certain conditions such as injury or lymphedema do not call for diuretics and other health issues may preclude the use of a diuretic. If your feet continue to swell after treating them or the swelling comes back repeatedly, your doctor will need to know about it. Edema can be caused by certain disorders of the heart, liver, kidneys, lymphatic system and more. In those cases, treating the condition is more important than treating the side effect of swollen feet.

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