Monday, December 26, 2011

Cures For Aching Legs







Many people who must stand or work on their feet all day, five or six days a week, come home every night with aching legs and feet. Foot and leg health for such individuals is essential to prevent more serious complications such as varicose veins, bone spurs and swollen ankles or joints. Cures for aching legs can include home remedies that provide pain and ache relief safely and effectively.


Swelling


Reducing swelling caused by long periods of immobility or from standing on your feet all day can help to relieve pain in the lower extremities and restore circulation. The best thing for swollen ankles and calves is to get your feet up. Elevate the feet higher than the level of your heart to help blood return to the heart. Veins in the legs have valves which prevent blood from backing up as it returns to the heart, and getting the feet up will help reduce pressure against these valves.


Massage


Encouraging circulation by lightly massaging the legs, calves and ankles several times a day can help provide relief from tense and cramped muscles. Massage will help promote circulation and help restore sensation to tissues. Every evening, massage the legs with coconut or mustard oil for extra relief.








Hydrate


Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps prevent edema, or water retention, which often sinks to the ankles due to gravity. Taking a steam bath once a week will help encourage circulation and restore blood flow to the extremities.


Herbal Remedies


Herbal wraps not only provide soothing relief for the legs but can also help reduce stress and promote rest. For example, mix 2 tsp. of fenugreek powder that can be purchased at your local health food store with a glass of water and drink every morning before you eat breakfast. This remedy has long been used to help provide pain relief for aching legs.


Taking a bath in warm water infused with 5 tbsp. of rosemary or thyme also provides amazing relief.

Tags: will help, aching legs, help provide, help reduce, provide pain, swollen ankles