Tips To Relieve Swollen Feet & Ankles

Are you one of the millions of People whose feet and ankles are puffy and swollen by the end of the day? Then in the morning when you awaken the swelling is magically gone! There are many medical conditions that can contribute to foot and ankle swelling but among the most common is dependent pedal edema. Though not medically dangerous it sure is unattractive and a nuisance. Fortunately there are a number of simple lifestyle modifications which can help reduce swollen feet and ankles.

• Don't sit for long periods of time without getting up to stretch. Taking occasional short walks is even better. When sitting make sure to massage your legs and feet frequently as well. The more activity your leg muscles engage in the more effectively they can prevent fluid from accumulating in your feet and ankles.

• It sounds drastic and looks very unfashionable but knee high elastic support or compression stockings are very effective at treating swollen feet and ankles.

• Avoid using table salt or processed foods high in sodium chloride. Salt can stimulate your body to retain fluid leading to worse swelling of feet and ankles.

• Lose weight! The more overweight you are the more difficulty your body has in trying to return fluid from your lower extremities. This leads to more swollen feet and ankles.

• Begin a regular aerobic exercise program. Not only can this help you to lose weight but doing so also improves your blood circulation and strengthens the muscles in your lower body which in turn helps to more effective return leg fluid to the heart.

• Avoid OTC anti-inflammatory agents such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Regular use of these agents can contribute to worsening foot and ankle swelling. Don't forget to review your long term medications with your doctor as well. A number of prescription medications can cause swollen feet and ankles.

How to Relieve Tired Feet

Most people seem to neglect their feet and concentrate on the more visible parts of the body but feet play an important role. Tired and aching feet can affect the way a person feels by creating discomfort.Weight, standing up for prolonged periods of time, heat and uncomfortable shoes can put a certain amount of pressure on our feet and ankles and can lead to certain foot problems like, varicose veins and swollen feet.

In order to provide relief for tired feet you need to:

• put your feet up in a comfortable position for about 10 minutes. This is a great way to relieve swollen feet

• if your feet are aching and feel hot, place them in cold water (but not too cold) for a few minutes.

• massage your feet with moisturizing cream. There are a number of foot care products available on the market. You can try a cooling foot cream in case your feet feel tired or hot and gently massage the cream in. The massage will stimulate blood circulation and provide relief and relaxation for your feet

• sitting down can provide a temporary relief for tired feet. Standing up for long periods of time can cause varicose veins

• getting pedicures can provide relaxation for the feet. Pedicures are also great because they eliminate dead skin which can cause food odor, eczemas and fungus

So pay attention to your feet because they are just as important as any part of your body. Beautiful and well taken care of feet will make you look and feel beautiful.