Tips To Alleviate Swollen And Painful Feet And Ankles

If your feet and ankles are often swollen and sore after standing all day in the retail store that you are employed at, reduce swelling and discomfort with the following tips. Each pampering session will help you relax after a stressful day, and each of the tips can be used as often as desired. 

Massage With Essential Oils

Lemongrass, cypress, and grapefruit oils are natural anti-inflammatories, and each emits a subtle, pleasant scent. Before purchasing an essential oil, smell several varieties so that you can choose the one that you like the most. Once home, turn on soft lighting and play some calming music in the room where you would like to perform a massage on your feet. Sit on a comfortable chair or couch.

Pour a few drops of oil on the palms of your hands and rub your hands together for a minute or two. Gently knead your feet and ankles with your fingertips. Use varying amounts of pressure to determine which technique feels the most comfortable. Add more oil to your hands as needed and continue massaging your feet until swelling has gone down and pain has been reduced. 

Cooling Slippers And Elevation

The gel liners inside of cooling slippers will reduce puffiness in your feet and temporarily eliminate pain. Many types of slippers have adjustable straps that will assist with securing the base of each slipper to the bottom of your foot. Place a pair of cooling slippers in a freezer for an hour or two. Afterward, put the slippers on over your sock-covered feet.

Lay back on a bed or couch while elevating your feet on a wedge pillow. The elevation will increase blood flow in your feet, further reducing inflammation in each one. If the gel inside of the slippers begins to feel warm, place the slippers back inside of a freezer for a while longer. 

Epsom Salt Soak 

Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate, a natural mineral that possesses anti-inflammatory qualities and that is commonly used to alleviate pain. Fill a shallow tray or bucket with warm water. Sprinkle epsom salt into either container. Use a spoon to stir the salt until it has dissolved. Set the tray or bucket on the floor, directly in front of the chair that you have chosen to sit on. Soak your feet in the salty water until the swelling in each one has gone down and you are no longer experiencing pain when you move your feet.

To learn more about foot pain care, contact a medical professional at a location like Foot & Ankle Care Center PA.