Lifestyle Desk – In today’s busy life, the problem of swelling, pain and stiffness in feet is not limited only to the elderly. Working while sitting for a long time, standing for hours, wrong eating habits, less physical activity or some health problems can also cause swelling in the feet. Many people feel severe pain while walking, redness appears in the feet and due to swelling it becomes difficult to even wear shoes. In such a situation, most people immediately start taking painkillers, but taking painkillers repeatedly without doctor’s advice can be harmful to health. If swelling is not a sign of any serious disease, then a great extent of relief can be achieved by adopting some easy habits and proper routine. Let us know 5 such easy steps, which can prove helpful in reducing swelling and pain in feet.
If you feel swelling in your legs after standing or sitting all day, then lie down for some time and keep your legs slightly above the heart level with the help of a pillow. This improves blood circulation and can help reduce swelling.
Many people think that it is better to take more rest when there is swelling, but sitting for many hours continuously can increase the problem. Walk for a few minutes every 30 to 45 minutes or lightly stretch your legs. This improves blood circulation and can reduce stiffness.
To keep the leg muscles active, simple exercises like light walk, ankle rotation, toe-raise and stretching can be beneficial. These exercises done regularly help in reducing stiffness in the feet and maintaining flexibility. However, if the pain is very severe then it is important to consult a doctor first.
Excessive amount of salt in the body can sometimes increase swelling by retaining water. Therefore, avoid foods high in salt and keep drinking adequate amount of water throughout the day. Maintaining proper hydration in the body can also help in reducing swelling.
Wearing very tight shoes or high heels for a long time puts extra pressure on the feet. Choose footwear that provides proper support to the feet and is comfortable. This makes it easier to walk and does not put unnecessary stress on the legs.
If the swelling of the feet persists for several days, there is sudden swelling in only one foot, severe pain, redness, fever, difficulty in breathing or change in skin color are also seen, then do not consider it as a normal problem and depend on home remedies. Such symptoms can be a sign of some serious health problem, so it is important to get checked by a doctor immediately.
