Those that must stand for hours each day, particularly those that stand on unforgiving surfaces in shoes that lack support. When the legs and feet are overworked, the muscles can cramp, making it difficult for your feet to properly support your body weight properly, increasing your discomfort throughout the day. Cramped muscles can also lead to blood pooling in the limbs, leading to swelling of the feet. Those that frequently suffer from foot pain can take advantage of home remedies that will help alleviate this discomfort.

Home Remedies for Foot Pain

1. Relax

Standing a great deal throughout the day will cause discomfort or pain for your feet. So, whenever possible, take the time to sit down and relax. Keep the feet at a 45 degree angle while at rest to help encourage blood flow, reducing the risk of swelling. Soaking the feet will help encourage circulation which will help muscles relax and take down swelling. Create a foot bath by mixing Epsom salts (two tablespoons) in a foot bath filled with warm water. Allow your feet to soak for 15 minutes, and then pat them dry with a towel and moisturize them with a soothing foot lotion or cream.

2. Massage

A foot massage can help release cramped muscles and improve circulation. Many massage artists specialize in performing foot massages, but it is also easy to perform a foot massage at home.

• Applying alternate sources of warm and hot for one minute each can encourage circulation and comfort for the feet. This is easily accomplished by sitting on the edge of your tub and running hot and cold water alternatively on the feet.
• Grab a bottle of massage or baby oil or a bottle of moisturizing lotion. Apply your moisturizing agent to the feet with the thumb and forefingers using light, yet firm strokes. Work from the ball of the foot, back across the entire foot toward the toes. Make small circular motions alternated with long, deep strokes. Finish by gently rotating each toe and cupping the foot in both hands, gently squeezing the foot up and down.

3. Exercise

Working the muscles in the feet can promote strength and flexibility, making it easier for you to stand and take on the necessary duties of your day. When exercising, make a point of wearing supportive footwear with plenty of padding to prevent injuries.

• Perform circle and stretch moves to increase flexibility. Sit in a chair and rotate the foot in a circle for or five times in each direction. Point the toes as much as you can then pull the toes as far back toward you as you can, repeating at least six times.
• The golf ball roll can also help build muscles in the foot. Sit down to ensure you will maintain your balance, then place the foot on top of the ball. Roll the ball around by using only the weight of the foot, then repeat on the other side. You can also spill beans or other small objects on the ground and practice picking them up with your toes to increase flexibility.

4. Have Proper Diets

Those that tend to have bloated or swollen feet at the end of the day should increase their potassium intake. Bananas are a common source of potassium that can be helpful here. Asparagus can act as a natural diuretic that will help flush out your system to avoid swelling. Focusing on low sodium protein options like yogurt, poultry or fish can also help you avoid bloating.

5. Apply Topical Remedies

Making a paste of flour, gardenia and wine can help heal a sprain. Cinnamon tea can also help cure cold feet. Place cayenne pepper in the feet to help keep feet warm and pain-free, though this should not be applied for too long as it can irritate the skin. Soak your feet in the mixture of a sage and apple cider vinegar to relieve bruising.

Preventions for Foot Pain

1. Avoid Certain Things

Also avoid caffeinated products like coffee or tea that can lead to bloating. Try not to spend long amounts of time standing on hard surfaces. Whenever possible, take breaks and elevate the feet. As soon as your feet, knees or legs begin to feel sore, address the discomfort to help avoid a more serious condition. Also try to maintain a healthy weight to avoid putting excess pressure on the feet.

2. Choose Proper Shoes

Select shoes that are appropriate for your feet. Those with rigid feet and high arches should select shoes with more cushioning to absorb the shock. Those with flat feet should choose shoes that are stable, but not too rigid. Also ensure that you have proper shoes to match the activity you will be performing. Sports shoes should supply plenty of support with cushioning to absorb the high amount of impact from these activities. If you find your older shoes no longer support your feet the way they should, throw them away.

3. Trim Toenails

Leaving toenails unkempt can cause ingrown nails or additional pressure on the feet. Trim nails straight, keeping on the end of the toes. Gently file the corners to remove any rough edges that could cut the surrounding skin.