How to Stop Your Feet From Swelling up

Elevate your feet to reduce swelling.

Your feet may swell from many different reasons. Muscle injuries, a poor diet, allergic reactions, drug abuse, trauma, physical activity and pregnancy can cause swelling or edema. When your feet swell, an unnecessary amount of fluid builds up in your muscles. Take simple precautions to avoid and eliminate swelling.

Things You'll Need

• Ice
• Furniture on which to prop your feet

Instructions

1. Avoid foods with a lot of salt. Salt helps build more fluid in muscles. Drink a lot of water to gain fluid in your system an alternative way.

2. Elevate your feet. Lie down on your back. Keep your feet elevate above the level of your heart for at least 15 minutes at a time to help circulate the blood flow in your system.

3. Apply ice. Icing your feet will help reduce any discomfort you may be having. Applying cold pressure also helps relieve swelling.

4. Avoid sitting for a long period of time. Blood will not be able to circulate freely when you are sitting. If you are required to sit for a long time, get up every hour to walk around and regain regular blood flow.

5. Get a massage. Massaging of the feet can help reduce the swelling. Massage the areas where your discomfort occurs to help ease the pain. Some professionals practice massage therapy specifically for the feet.

References

• National Institutes of Health: Medline Plus: Foot, Leg and Ankle Swelling
• Mayo Clinic: Edema