Have you ever looked down at your legs and feet and hardly recognized them as yours because of swelling? That is a common occurrence due to long days on your feet, pregnancy, surgery, or hours of travel. Usually, Weston swollen legs are caused by a buildup of water or fluid in your legs. Fortunately, there are ways to relieve swelling from everyday causes; sometimes, you can even prevent it.
What causes swollen legs?
Swelling, or edema in medical terms, occurs when your body retains fluid in your lower legs, ankles, and feet. It usually affects both sides of the body, and the result is uncomfortable and can limit your movement. Swollen legs may be due to lifestyle factors like obesity or lack of physical activity. They may also result from medical conditions affecting fluid movement in your body. Examples include diseases affecting your kidneys, heart, liver, and veins. Injuries, wearing tight shoes, and pregnancy are also possible causes of swollen legs.
Tips to help swollen legs, ankles, and feet
Possible solutions to your swollen legs or feet could be already in your kitchen cabinet or around your living room. Other times a quick trip to the store is all it takes to find some relief. Below are simple home remedies that you may consider to help reduce swelling.
Wear compression stockings
Compression stockings gently squeeze your legs, promoting better blood circulation and reducing swelling. Wearing compression stockings helps blood to move to the heart instead of pooling in the leg veins; this minimizes swelling and pain. You can find compression stockings at various pharmacies, shore retailers, and online stores. Therefore, finding them will not be a problem. They are also available in multiple weights, from light to medium to heavyweight. You want to select a pair that is not too tight for your body. Specialists recommend wearing compression stockings most if not all the time for the best results.
Elevate your legs
Gravity doesn’t stop working; you can help your circulatory system by letting gravity do its thing. Try to elevate your legs above your heart level whenever you are sitting or lying down; this helps drain built-up fluid from your lower extremities. Elevating your legs is quite simple – use your pillows or anything else available to prop up your legs. Yoga poses lying on the floor with your legs raised and pressing against the wall can be helpful.
Add magnesium-rich foods to your diet.
Fluid retention and the resulting swelling can be a sign of magnesium deficiency. Adding magnesium-rich foods to your diet could solve your painful problem. Examples of foods that are high in magnesium include nuts and seeds like cashews, flaxseed, peanuts, almonds, and pumpkin seeds. Legumes, low-fat dairy products, greens, fiber-rich whole grains, and dark chocolate are also rich in magnesium. You can also get a boost of magnesium by taking supplements. However, consult your doctor before taking magnesium supplements, especially if you have a kidney or heart condition.
If your swollen feet don’t improve with the above measures, book a session with your doctor at Soffer Health Institute for medical treatment.
