Swollen Feet And Ankles

Swelling of the feet and ankles is a problem that can affect virtually everyone. Swollen feet is a not a disease but a symptom of other diseases. Many of the problems that lead to swelling of the feet arise as a result of the accumulation of fluid in the body tissues causing a swelling referred to as edema. The accumulated fluid gets stuck in between the body cells. If not treated as early as possible, it can lead to damage of your limbs.

There are many factors that lead to swelling of your feet and ankles. Sitting or standing for a long time, body overweight, pregnancy, aging, nutritional deficiencies, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), poor blood circulation and lack of physical exercises are some of the prime factors that lead to swelling of the feet and feet.

The good news is that there are natural remedies for swollen feet and ankles that if utilized well can help one save big by avoiding huge medical bills. Here are some of the common practices that you can easily do on a daily basis with very minimal strain.

1. Contrast Hydrotherapy

Contrast hydrotherapy is where you interchangeably put your feet in warm and cold water with very short time span in between the two events. This is one of the most effective natural remedies for swollen feet and ankles. The warm water helps in improving blood circulation in the body while the cold water helps in reducing the inflammation and swelling.

Contrast Hydrotherapy

2. Massage

Massaging the feet and lower limbs, in general, is one of the best and most preferably cures for swollen feet and ankle. Massage introduces pressure on the affected parts and helps in relaxing sore muscles in addition to improving blood circulation. Massage also helps in draining excess fluid to reduce the swelling. So how do you go about it? Smear warm olive oil or mustard oil at the swollen area. In an upward direction, gently and slowly massage the affected part for 5 minutes. Do not massage in a downward direction and do not apply a lot of pressure. Repeat the process several times every day. It is advisable to have your massage during or immediately after a shower. For swelling that come as a result of pregnancy, you are advised to visit a therapist for specialized prenatal massage.

3. Use Epsom Salt

Epsom salt helps in reducing swelling and inflammation as well as pain and discomfort. Epsom salt has magnesium sulfate as an ingredient which is easily absorbed into the skin and helps in improving blood circulation. It also helps in relaxing tired muscles, sore as well as neutralizing foot smell. Like the massage, the use of Epsom salt is also very simple. Add a cup of the Epsom salt in a bathing trough with warm water. Deep the swollen feet in the water for between 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat the process for a couple of days.

Use Epsom Salt

4. Ginger

Ginger is one of the natural diuretic known for treating swollen feet. Ginger works by diluting sodium which is a prime factor known to cause swelling. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing swelling. Ginger can be used in two ways. One, the ginger oil can be used during the massage. Secondly, it can be take in the form of a drink i.e. ginger tea or you can even chew raw sliced ginger.

5. Dandelion

Dandelion has diuretic properties that help in increasing the rate of metabolism of the extra fluid hence reducing the level of swelling of the feet. According to a study done in 2009, dandelion is categorized as having diuretic effects which can help in treating water retention. Additionally, it also helps the body regulate the amount of sodium. In a cup of hot water, add 1 teaspoon of dried or fresh dandelion leaves. Drink the mixture for 2 to 3 times daily. On the advice of a doctor, you can also make dandelion or tincture.


6. Lemon Water

A daily dose of lemon water can help in flushing out excess toxins and fluids from the body. This, in turn, reduces feet swelling due to water retention. It also helps in hydrating the body in addition to providing anti-inflammatory benefits. In a cup of warm water, add 2 teaspoons of the lemon juice. Add a little honey to make it sweet. Drink the lemon water a couple of time daily.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar a high proportion of potassium which helps in reducing retention of water which is one of the prime causes of swelling of the feet and ankles. Mix equal quantities of raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar with warm water. Soak a towel in the mixture, get rid of the excess water in the towel and wrap it around the affected area for 10 minutes. Repeat the process a number of times daily. You can also drink the apple cider vinegar after mixing it with a little honey. Do this twice a day.

Apple Cider Vinegar

8. Coriander Seeds

Coriander seeds have anti-inflammatory properties which reduce on the swelling of the feet in addition to improving the level of blood circulation. In 1 cup of water, add 2 to 3 teaspoons of the seeds. Boil until the quantity is reduced by half. Filter out the solution and drink when cool. Repeat the process twice every day.

Above all, you are advised to maintain an active lifestyle. A dull and dormant body increases water retention and reduces the blood circulation. It is advisable that you regularly do some physical exercises as they help in stimulating blood circulation and prevents it from accumulating in the lower limb. Swimming is one of the most recommended exercises that can reduce swelling and relieve pain and inflammation. Once in a while take a walk and do some jogging. Also, do yoga on a daily basis to improve blood circulation.

Disclaimer: All images are provided by the author.

About The Author:

Lilly DerrahLilly Derrah is the founder of ShoesTracker, a foot health blog dedicated to providing honest foot health advice and information. She aspires to help her readers improve their foot heath condition by sharing personal tips learned through both years of experience and thorough research. Check out https://shoestracker.com/best-shoes-for-standing-all-day/ to learn more about Lilly and her work.