You get home after a long day, kick off your shoes, and there you are… your feet are swollen, sore, and almost unrecognizable. Whether you’ve been standing too long, been exposed to heat, or consumed too much salt, swollen feet are common, but not irreversible. Before you start worrying, know that there are simple and effective measures you can take to quickly relieve this discomfort.
Why do our feet swell?
Foot swelling can occur for several reasons:
Heat, which dilates blood vessels;
Poor venous circulation;
Too much salt in the diet;
Pregnancy or taking certain medications;
Dehydration or lack of physical activity
; Swelling is often mild. However, it can also be a symptom of circulatory or kidney disorders, so it’s important to monitor for accompanying symptoms.
Natural and inexpensive ways to relieve swollen feet:
cold for fast relief
Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your feet and holding it there for 15 to 20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and relieve the feeling of heaviness. This is the perfect solution after a day of intense heat or long periods of standing.
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Leg lift: a simple and effective reflex
Lie down and prop your legs against a wall or pillow so they are higher than your heart. This promotes venous return and naturally reduces swelling.
Relaxing foot bath: your ally in relaxation
A warm foot bath, alone or with Epsom salt, helps release tension, stimulate circulation, and expel toxins. The warm water dilates blood vessels; the salt helps eliminate retained fluids.
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