Are you dealing with swollen ankles on a regular basis? Sometimes this is due to an underlying health condition like diabetes, while other times we simply become more prone to swelling due to age and lifestyle habits. Treating swelling is pretty simple if you work to understand the root cause and make some necessary changes in your daily habits. Today, we take a look at five ways you can decrease swelling in your ankles and feet.
Preventing Ankle and Foot Swelling
Here’s a look at five strategies for reducing and preventing swelling in your feet and ankles.
1. Compression socks – Compression socks are a great passive prevention technique. These tighter socks provide compression and in turn prevent fluid from pooling in your lower extremities. Find a pair of compression socks if you’re dealing with foot or ankle swelling, but make sure that’s not your only treatment option.
2. Exercise and Movement – Exercise and activities like walking can help to prevent ankle and foot swelling. When we sit or stand in one spot for too long, fluid can build up in our feet. By moving and exercising, we can naturally prevent this pooling from taking place while also strengthening crucial foot structures.
3. Elevation – No, you don’t need to move to Denver in order to reduce swelling in your feet. Simply elevate your legs by putting a pillow or towel underneath them when you’re in bed, or lean back in your recliner. This will help to prevent fluid buildup in your feet, which will in turn decrease swelling.
4. Weight Loss – An added benefit of exercise is that it can help you lose weight, which is another way to help prevent swelling in your ankles and feet. Weight loss has been shown to help limit swelling in your feet, so keep an eye on your diet as well as your activity levels.
5. Hydration – You’re actually more likely to have swollen ankles and feet if you’re under-hydrated, so really make sure that you are getting plenty of water on a daily basis. Drinking less water promotes swelling because fluids can’t easily leave the foot area, so drink an appropriate amount of water (8-10 glasses) a day.