How to soothe swollen feet during pregnancy

While swollen feet may be uncomfortable and even painful at times, there are steps you can take to relieve and soothe this condition at any time during your pregnancy. Here’s how to soothe and care for swollen feet when you’re expecting a baby.

Avoid consuming salty foods

Foods high in sodium and salt can cause fluid retention. Stay away from boxed or packaged processed foods, and avoid adding extra salt to your meals. Stick to eating fresh fruits and vegetables, and consume other healthy whole foods that lack sodium, including nuts, seeds, healthy fats, and protein. The less salt you consume, the fewer problems you’ll face with fluid retention.

Drink more water

Water can help flush excess sodium out of your body, and reduce the risk for fluid retention. Stop drinking sugary drinks such as soda, sweet tea, fruit juices, and energy drinks, and start drinking more water. Caffeine can also lead to fluid retention. If you’re pregnant, your health care provider may advise that you omit caffeine completely from your diet for the sake of baby’s health, as well as your own.

Elevate your feet

Standing or walking around for long periods of time during pregnancy can worsen swollen feet, since any fluid in your body will most likely drain downward and pool in your feet at the end of the day. Throughout the day, keep your feet elevated, if possible. Elevating your feet can help reduce incidences of swollen feet.

Apply ice

Apply ice or a cold compress to your swollen feet at the end of the day to alleviate related aches and pains associated with swelling. Hot temperatures can also lead to swollen feet, in which cases ice can help cool down your body temperature and relieve pain at the same time.

Wear comfortable shoes

Sometimes, you may develop swollen feet due to wearing tight, restricting footwear that squeezes your feet. If your shoes are uncomfortable or tight, your feet could swell to the point where your skin becomes extremely tight and painful. If you can’t avoid walking around or standing up, invest in comfortable walking shoes that allow your feet plenty of room to breathe and have the ability to expand throughout the course of the day. Wearing compression stockings can also help prevent excess swelling.

Call Kansas City Foot Specialists to schedule an evaluation at (913) 338-4440, or request an appointment online so we can determine the true cause of your injury and get you back on your feet.