Swelling feet

Fact Checked

Swelling feet is not a disease but a symptom of an underlying condition and usually it is an accumulation of fluids in the tissues that causes swelling also known as edema. This usually happens due to being overweight, aging of a person, standing for a long periods of time, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), deficiencies in nutrition, poor circulation of blood and lack of physical exercise. An injury or surgery in the leg, ankle or foot can cause swelling feet. People suffering from heart problems, kidney or liver disease, diabetes and pregnant women are susceptible to this condition.

Symptoms

• Stretched out or shiny skin
• Enlargement of the tissue directly beneath the skin
• Increased abdominal size

  

• Skin maintains a dimple after being pressed for a few seconds

Treatment

• Use hydrotherapy which is a treatment that uses both cold and warm water to lessen the severity of swelling feet. Warm water helps in improving the circulation of blood in the area and cold water helps in minimizing inflammation and swelling. Fill 2 foot tubs with water, one with cold water and the other fill with warm water. Soak the affected feet in warm water for at least 3-4 minutes, then immediately transfer the affected feet to the cold water for a minute. Continue alternating for at least 15-20 minutes. Perform this procedure several times every day until the pain and swelling is minimized.
• Massage the feet during or after taking a bath. If swelling is due to pregnancy, seek the help of a therapist specializing in prenatal massage.
• Elevate the swelling part of the body above the level of the heart at least several times every day and especially while sleeping.
• Compress the swelling feet using compression stockings, sleeves or gloves. This helps maintain pressure on the limbs and prevent accumulation of fluids in the tissue.
• Keep the affected area clean, free from injury and moisturized. Dry skin is prone to scrapes, cuts and infection and always wears proper protection for the feet where swelling usually happens.
• Minimize consumption of salt in order to lessen the accumulation of fluid in the tissues and avoid making the condition worse.
• In foot tub filled with warm water, mix ½ cup of Epsom Salt mix until salt is dissolved. Soak the affected feet for at least 10-15 minutes. Repeat this procedure three times every week.
• Mix equal amounts of warm water and apple cider vinegar. Soak a towel in the solution, wring out excess water and wrap it around the affected area for 10 minutes. Perform this procedure a few times every day.
• Perform regular exercises in order to help minimize swelling feet. It also helps stimulates circulation and prevents pooling of blood in the lower extremities. Walk or jog for 30 minutes at least five days a week.