Guide to Swollen Feet: Tips for Comfort and Relief
Updated on November 22, 2024
Shop the best shoes for swollen feet
What are Swollen Feet?
Swollen feet, medically known as edema, occur when excess fluid builds up in the tissues, often in the legs and feet. Gravity can pull this fluid downward, leading to swelling in areas like the feet, ankles, hands, and legs, a condition referred to as peripheral edema.
Swelling can result from a variety of factors, including excessive salt intake, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or minor injuries like sprains and strains. Chronic health conditions, such as obesity, alcoholism, or lymphatic issues, may also contribute to the condition.
Fortunately, many cases of swollen feet can be managed with simple lifestyle changes and home remedies, such as wearing adjustable shoes or practicing circulation-boosting techniques. Watch the video below to learn how to perform a water bottle massage at home for relief from swollen feet.
Later in this guide, we’ll dive deeper into the causes and tailored solutions for swollen feet to help you find the relief you need.
Most Common Causes & Risk Factors
There are many possible reasons why your feet may swell. These range from minor injuries and situational conditions to chronic medical conditions. Below, we take a look at some of the most common causes of swollen feet.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Swollen feet and ankles can cause symptoms like shiny or puffy skin, discomfort, or reduced mobility. While these are often manageable with home care, certain signs—such as persistent swelling, pain, or accompanying symptoms like fever or redness—may indicate a more serious condition requiring medical attention.
Facts and Stats
- About 19% to 20% of adults over 50 experience swollen feet or ankles.
- Ankle and foot swelling is more common in spring and summer, with the highest incidences occurring in midsummer, according to Google search trends.
- Peripheral edema or swollen feet affects 80% of women with normal pregnancies.
- The number one cause of peripheral edema in older patients (ages 50 and up) is venous insufficiency.
- Though anyone can get swollen feet, the condition is most prevalent among the elderly, people of low socioeconomic status, and women.
Treatment
Swollen feet and ankles can be managed with simple yet effective treatments, regardless of the cause. From adopting healthy habits to choosing the right footwear, these remedies can help alleviate discomfort and reduce swelling. Below are treatment tips tailored to specific causes.
FAQs
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What are the main causes of swollen feet?
Swollen feet can result from a variety of factors, including prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, high sodium intake, injuries, or medical conditions like arthritis or venous insufficiency. Certain medications, such as those for blood pressure or hormonal therapy, can also contribute to swelling.
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How do I stop my feet from swelling?
To reduce swelling, try elevating your feet above heart level, staying hydrated, reducing salt intake, and wearing supportive footwear. Gentle stretching, walking, or compression socks can also help improve circulation. If swelling persists, consult a healthcare professional to identify underlying causes.
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Does a swollen foot mean heart failure?
Swollen feet alone do not always indicate heart failure. However, persistent swelling, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, fatigue, or chest pain, could be a symptom of a heart-related condition. It's important to consult a doctor if you experience these additional symptoms.
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What is best to drink for swollen feet?
Water is the best choice to help reduce swelling, as staying hydrated supports proper circulation and reduces fluid retention. Herbal teas like dandelion or green tea may also help, as they have mild diuretic properties. Avoid sugary drinks or excessive caffeine, which can exacerbate swelling in some cases.
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What are the best shoes for swollen feet?
The best shoes for swollen feet prioritize comfort, support, and adjustability. Key features to look for include:
- Wide Toe Boxes: Extra room prevents pressure on swollen areas.
- Adjustable Features: Velcro straps, elastic laces, or stretchable uppers accommodate swelling throughout the day.
- Cushioned Insoles: Provide added comfort and support for sensitive feet.
- Supportive Heel Technology: Ensures proper alignment and reduces strain.
- Lightweight and Breathable Materials: Reduce irritation and keep feet comfortable.
These features can help alleviate discomfort and make daily activities more manageable.
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Three Layers of Support
At KURU, we pride ourselves on our unique approach to shoe design. We believe that shoes should be shaped to fit the natural contours of your feet, which is why we create every pair in three distinct support layers, not just an insole.
Our revolutionary ergonomic design starts with a curved footbed and adds unparalleled triple-layer support that includes shock-absorbing KURUCLOUD, heel-cupping KURUSOLE, and arch-supporting ULTIMATE INSOLES. The result? Shoes that are so comfortable you’ll stop thinking about your feet.
- 1
KURUSOLE
...Show LessThe heel, ankle, and arch support from our patented KURUSOLE starts under the arch and extends to wrap around the heel. KURUSOLE cups and protects your heel and dynamically flexes with each step to help absorb impact, redirect stress, and encourage a healthy gait.
The heel, ankle, and arch support from our patented KURUSOLE starts under the arch and extends to wrap around the heel. KURUSOLE cups and protects your heel and dynamically flexes with each step to help absorb impact, redirect stress, and encourage a healthy gait.
- 2
KURUCLOUD
...Show LessOur KURUCLOUD base layer delivers the utmost comfort. Made of lightweight EVA foam, it ensures you get enough padding to fully support your feet and relieve pressure. KURUCLOUD’s soft cushioning offers shock absorption to reduce strain and injury for swollen feet.
Our KURUCLOUD base layer delivers the utmost comfort. Made of lightweight EVA foam, it ensures you get enough padding to fully support your feet and relieve pressure. KURUCLOUD’s soft cushioning offers shock absorption to reduce strain and injury for swollen feet.
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ULTIMATE INSOLE
...Show LessOur ULTIMATE INSOLE offers the comfort and support of an orthotic built into fashionable shoes. The durable, dual-density polyurethane foam lasts longer than thin inserts and adapts to the shape of your feet for custom, properly fitted shoes for swollen feet.
Our ULTIMATE INSOLE offers the comfort and support of an orthotic built into fashionable shoes. The durable, dual-density polyurethane foam lasts longer than thin inserts and adapts to the shape of your feet for custom, properly fitted shoes for swollen feet.
KURUSOLE
The heel, ankle, and arch support from our patented KURUSOLE starts under the arch and extends to wrap around the heel. KURUSOLE cups and protects your heel and dynamically flexes with each step to help absorb impact, redirect stress, and encourage a healthy gait.
Our Secret
Our Secret
What makes KURU different? Every KURU shoe comes with built-in patented KURUSOLE tech—a foot health game changer.
While other shoes are flat on the inside, KURUSOLE is shaped like your foot to hug and prevent fatigue and pain.
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