You come home after a long day, take off your shoes, and there you have it… your feet are swollen, painful, and almost unrecognizable. Whether you’ve been standing too long, exposed to the heat, or consumed too much salt, swollen feet are common—but not irreversible. Before you worry, there are simple and effective ways to quickly soothe this discomfort.
Why do our feet get swollen?
Foot swelling, or edema, can occur for a variety of reasons:
- Heat, which dilates blood vessels
- Poor venous circulation
- Too much salt in your diet
- Pregnancy or taking certain medications
- Dehydration or lack of physical activity
Swelling is often benign. But it can also be a sign of a circulatory or kidney disorder, making it important to monitor for associated signs.
Natural and accessible remedies to relieve foot swelling
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Cold for quick relief
Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to your feet for 15 to 20 minutes can help reduce inflammation and soothe the feeling of heaviness. It’s an ideal solution after a hot day or prolonged standing.
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Raise your legs: a simple and effective reflex
Lie down and place your legs against a wall or on a cushion so that they are higher than your heart. This will promote venous return and naturally reduce swelling.
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Relaxing foot bath: your relaxation ally
A warm foot bath, alone or with Epsom salt, helps release tension, boost circulation, and eliminate toxins. The warm water dilates blood vessels; the salt facilitates the evacuation of retained fluids.
Bonus tip: A few drops of lavender essential oil will enhance the calming effect.
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Alternating hot and cold to stimulate circulation
Prepare two basins: one with hot water, one with cold water. Soak your feet in the hot water for 3 to 5 minutes, then in the cold water for 30 to 60 seconds. Repeat for about 15 to 20 minutes. This contrast stimulates microcirculation and reduces fluid stagnation.
