Swollen feet are when the feet enlarge abnormally due to a localized fluid buildup in the tissues. Regardless if the swelling is localized or generalized, it is usually characterized by enlargement, redness, heat, or pain. Whether it’s the feet or any other body part, swelling usually results from increased fluid or blood movement in the affected area, resulting in chemical release or nerve compression. It can be excessive, too, and can stem from various causes, from minor injuries to unhealthy lifestyles, pregnancy, and underlying medical conditions.
As part of the body’s internal protection or alarm system, swelling is more like a symptom than a condition, signifying damage in the area or some other body parts. Some swollen feet also hurt, but sometimes, swollen feet are painless (edema). It can be acute or chronic, though in some cases, it can be harmful when left untreated.
Depending on the actual cause of the swollen feet, different home remedies can help relieve it and the discomfort it brings.
Elevate Your Feet
Elevating the feet by propping them up with a pillow or a footrest, preferably above the heart, for at least 20 minutes to an hour at a time is believed to be one of the most common home remedies to help drain fluid from the swollen area of the feet. This is particularly true in cases of edema when the swelling is caused by abnormal fluid buildup, which is common during pregnancy.
When going to bed, take a cushion, some pillows, or even a couple of phone books. Use these to prop your feet up to help decrease bleeding and edema. Doing so will encourage the fluid that accumulates to return to the body instead of collecting in the extremities. For pregnant women, propping their feet up multiple times during the day is advised. Staying off your feet, practicing yoga, and avoiding standing for extended periods also help.
Simply put, let gravity do its thing in helping drain the fluid buildup in your lower extremities to ease the swelling of your feet.
