How can diabetics reduce the swelling of their feet?

Diabetics can reduce the swelling in their feet by elevating them, cutting down on sodium, increasing exercise and water intake and wearing compression socks, as stated by DiabeticConnect.com. It is also a good idea to quit smoking and work to maintain a balanced blood glucose level.

Diabetics often have to deal with foot problems as a part of their condition, including swelling of the feet. According to Diabetic Connection, there are ways to help reduce this swelling and discomfort.

• Elevate the legs

Take time each day to lay or sit with the feet elevated above the heart. This position helps blood and fluid to leave the feet.

• Wear compression socks

Consider wearing compression socks or garments on a daily basis. These socks fit snugly to the feet and ankles, applying a gentle pressure that encourages blood to return to the rest of the body. They can also help keep swelling from developing.

• Eat healthy

According to eMedicineHealth, controlling diabetes with a healthy, low-sodium diet and taking medications as needed is a good way to prevent the nerve and vascular damage that contributes to swelling.

• Move around more

Getting up and moving around periodically throughout the day, as well as taking time to exercise helps reduce swelling. These activities keep blood from pooling in the feet and get the blood pumping so it moves better through the lower extremities.

• Increase water intake

Sometimes, the answer is increasing water intake. Drinking between 8 and 10 glasses of water daily can flush unwanted sodium from the body that may be contributing to swelling.