How to Relieve Swollen Ankles

Swollen Ankles

Whether you are pregnant, have increased blood in your body or decreased circulation or maybe you are always standing or sitting for long periods of time at work, there is relief for your swollen ankles. If you are experiencing swollen ankles, your podiatrist offers solutions for finding relief.

Why Are My Ankles Swollen?

Swollen ankles do not just happen to pregnant women, but can affect each and every one of us at any stage of life. Your ankles swell for an array of reasons, including too much sodium in the diet, sodium retention, obesity, neuromuscular disorders, allergic reasons, trauma and standing too long. 

What Can I Do to Alleviate My Swollen Ankles?

Drink water. When you drink plenty of water you are flushing your system. While this may seem like the opposite thing to do when you are retaining fluid, it helps to flush fluid away with more water. This is effective and will help you to see a reduction in the swelling of your ankles.

Elevate your legs above your heart. Sitting in a recliner with it fully reclined will do wonders for your swollen ankles. However, if you do not have a recliner available, then lying flat on your bed or couch with your feet elevated above your heart on pillows will work well, too.

Walk around. Walking around may help with your blood flow and to reduce the swelling in your legs and ankles, but everything should be performed in moderation. Do not sit or stand in one place for too long. Remember to move your toes and flex your heels every few minutes to improve your circulation.  

Visit your podiatrist. Prolonged ankle or leg swelling can be a sign of an underlying health problem. An appointment with your podiatrist is a wise decision, and will help put your mind at rest.