7 Ways to Relieve Swollen Feet and Legs | If you are dealing with swollen feet and legs, we understand just how uncomfortable it can be. The condition often referred to broadly as edema, can be caused by a very large variety of factors. Swollen legs, ankles, and feet are caused by pregnancy, allergies, high blood pressure, kidney disease, gout, and many more factors.
While the treatment for these conditions varies hugely, there are several ways to treat this painful symptom regardless of the cause. If you want to know how to reduce swelling in legs, feet, and ankles, here are seven simple things you can try.
- Hydrate Yourself
If you are dealing with swollen feet, you might be in need of some hydration. When your body feels it is not getting enough water, it will retain the fluids it already has, leading to swelling in the extremities. One way to counter this is to simply drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day.
- Move Your Swollen Feet and Legs
Although this might seem like an unattractive option if you are in pain, it is highly likely to have a positive impact. Move your feet and legs to reduce leg swelling, however you can. If walking is too painful, see if you can head to a swimming pool and move your legs in the water.
- Use a Leg Compression Machine
One hugely effective way to improve circulation and reduce the buildup of fluid in your legs and feet is to invest in a leg compression machine. You can buy a quality leg compression machine online for a very affordable price, which you can then wear for short periods of time to help stimulate the movement of fluids and reduce swelling.
- Elevate Your Feet
You should always take the time to elevate your feet and legs to encourage better circulation. Even elevating your feet for 20 minutes can have a dramatic positive impact on any swelling in the region. Try using a pillow or a phonebook to elevate your feet. Ideally, your feet should be elevated above your heart.
- Add Magnesium
Many people retain excess fluid due to a magnesium deficiency. To counter this, you can get a magnesium supplement from your pharmacist or eat foods that are rich in magnesium, such as:
- Tofu
- Dark chocolate
- Almonds
- Avocado
- Cashs
- Spinach
- Brocolli
- Change Your Diet
Alternatively, there may be more serious diet issues at play. Oftentimes, swelling is the result of too much sodium in your diet, which means now is the time to cut out the salt. Stay away from processed food and junk food and try your best to cut your salt intake wherever you can. This can help induce quick and dramatic results.
- Lose Weight
Finally, do not underestimate the importance of losing weight. After all, you are many, many times more likely to experience swelling in the feet and legs if you are overweight. Exercising more might seem difficult, but this is not the solution. What matters is your calorie intake. Take steps to count your calories and reduce your intake of high-calorie, fatty foods from your diet to lose weight.
Everyday Health Insights You Can Trust
These simple steps have been consistently proven to alleviate swollen feet and legs. For more everyday health advice you can trust, we have got you covered. Make sure to search our extensive health guides to find advice that you can use.