We tend to spend a lot of time on our feet at work, during studying and even during leisure time. It doesn’t matter whether we are standing, walking, sitting or running since all of these actions can contribute tired and sore feet at the end of the day. That said, here are 8 Tips To Relieve Sore Feet!
1) Choose The Right Footwear
Let’s face it, not all shoes are created equal. That means your shoes can make or break your walking routine in the long run. If your shoes are the main cause of sore feet, you might want to consider investing in another pair of footwear. Not just any footwear but a pair that actually gives you ample cushion and support for your feet. Also, never put fashion and trend first when comes to buying a new pair of shoes since comfort matters the most. And make sure your shoes are sturdy but lightweight enough with proper ventilation as well.
2) Soak Your Feet
Just like your tired body, your feet deserve a pampering as well. That pampering in question is a foot bath, which consists of a basin filled with warm (but never hot) water. Add in a tablespoon of Epsom salt (you can easily get them in most local pharmacies) to the water. Also known as magnesium sulfate, the aforementioned salt offers several benefits such as reducing pain and swelling and even promotes better sleep quality. But keep in mind not to soak your feet in the bath for more than 30 minutes to prevent dehydration due to the salt content. Just keep it within 15 minutes or so and remember to pat your wet feet dry once you are done.
3) Give Your Feet An Essential Oil Therapy
Here’s another foot bath that you might want to consider for relieving tired and aching feet. Simply prepare a bucket of warm water and add a few drops of three different essential oils. These include clove oil, eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil. Soak your feet for around 10-15 minutes and repeat the process at least twice a week if possible.
4) Apple Cider Vinegar Soak
By now, you might have heard numerous benefits surrounding apple cider vinegar. You can usually find them in a bottled form sold in pharmacies, health stores and supermarkets. All you need to do is set out a tub of hot water (but not too hot to avoid scalding). Then, simply pour around 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and soak your feet for around 15 minutes. Not only will it help to relieve tired feet, but apple cider vinegar also contains antifungal properties to kill off bacteria around the corns and calluses and even toenail fungus.
5) Use A Tennis Ball
Believe it or not, a tennis ball isn’t just for… well, playing tennis on a court. This familiar white and yellow ball happens to be a useful tool for the DIY foot massage. All you have to do is place a tennis ball under your feet followed by rolling your bare feet over the ball back and forth for a few minutes. You will feel a certain pressure point that presses against your feet as you perform the rolling motion.
6) Get A Professional Foot Massage
In case the home remedy doesn’t work, consider getting yourself a professional foot massage. Whether a Thai or Chinese foot massage, a qualified therapist knows well how to release tension using a combination of firm touches and specific pressure points. Remember to check the massage centre’s credibility prior to visiting them.
7) Use Ice Pack
Here’s a simple remedy you can easily try at home. Just get a small towel or use a ziplock bag if possible to wrap around crushed ice. Place it on the affected area (read: tired and aching feet) and give them a massage. It may help to reduce sore muscles while minimising the swelling and pain in your feet. Alternatively, you can also invest in an affordable ice pack from DIY stores like Daiso.
8) Elevate Your Feet
After a whole day of stressing your legs regardless of prolonged walking or standing, your feet need a well-deserved rest. What you can do here is elevate your feet while resting on your favourite sofa or bed. Remember to place a pillow underneath to allow better blood circulation and it’s best to do so with your socks off (read: bare feet).
