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How to Reduce Swelling of Hands and Feet

Contributor
By Sarah Letts
eHow Contributing Writer
(7 Ratings)
Reduce Swelling of Hands and Feet
Reduce Swelling of Hands and Feet

Swollen hands and feet occur for a variety of reasons. Pregnancy, obesity, sodium retention, allergies and various medications can all cause swollen feet and hands. Poor nutrition, hormone therapy and excessive time on your feet can also lead to swelling. To solve the issue, you should ascertain the cause of the swelling. If you have chronic swelling, make an appointment to see your doctor. In the interim, there are various things you can do to reduce swelling of both the hands and feet.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Water
  • Chair
  • Stool
  • Pillows
  • Support socks
  • Massage
  • Ice
  1. Step 1

    Drink at least 64 ounces of water daily. This will help to flush toxins out of your system, thereby helping to reduce swelling in your extremities.

  2. Step 2

    Get off your feet. Swollen ankles are exacerbated by standing. Sit down in a comfortable chair.

  3. Step 3

    Elevate your feet and hands. While sitting, place your feet on a stool. Your feet should be raised higher than your heart. Rest your hands on pillows so they are elevated higher than the rest of your arms.

  4. Step 4

    Wear support socks and gloves. These specialty products are sometimes called compression socks, hose or gloves. They help to encourage circulation in the hands and feet, thereby helping to eliminate swelling.

  5. Step 5

    Massage your hands and feet. Enlist the help of a friend to help you with this. Massage will increase circulation in both the hands and feet. It will also encourage excess fluids to circulate away from the areas.

  6. Step 6

    Apply ice to the hands and feet. Ice will help to reduce swelling in both. Put the ice on the areas for 10 minutes, then remove it for 10 minutes. Repeat the process three times.

  7. Step 7

    Eat a well-balanced, nutritional diet. Consume lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. If you're healthy, your body systems will function properly, resulting in less swelling.

  8. Step 8

    Avoid excess salt, alcohol and caffeine as all exacerbate swelling.

  9. Step 9

    Incorporate daily exercise into your life. Regular, consistent exercise has been shown to reduce swelling in hands and feet.

Tips & Warnings
  • Determine the cause of your swollen hands and feet so you can solve the underlying issue.
  • See your doctor if swelling persists.
  • Avoid high heels and constricting shoes if you have swollen feet.

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