1. Epsom Salt Soaks
This is an oldie but a goodie! Epsom salt has been a popular treatment used for muscle soreness and other aches and pains. According to the Epsom Salt Council (Yes there is an Epsom Salt Council!) several studies have shown that Epsom salt is an effective over-the-counter remedy for treating a variety of conditions including muscle soreness in your feet. Even athletes use Epsom salt as a natural remedy to help their bodies recover faster. Epsom salt is made up of naturally occurring minerals magnesium and sulfate. These minerals can help with swelling as well as other medical conditions including high blood pressure. I recommend creating an Epsom Salt bath by pouring 1 cup into a tub of warm water and soaking your feet for 15-20 minutes. If you do not have a tub use some sort of large basin or bowl. You can add lavender oil to help relax.
2. Roll Your Foot Over a Tennis Ball
Your foot is a very complex structure composed of 26 bones and 33 joints. Bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments may all cause you foot problems especially after being on your feet all day in ill fitting shoes. Rolling your foot over a tennis ball (or my favorite a lacrosse ball) can provide you with a self massage that stretches and soothes your arches. You should perform this exercise for approximately 5 minutes. If your feet are really painful or throbbing you can cool them down by instead rolling a frozen water bottle or soda can. Check out this YouTube Video! Tip: After massaging and soaking your feet, apply your favorite moisturizer and cover with Earth Therapeutics Foot Covers.
3. Topical Pain Relievers
There are several over-the-counter pain relievers that come in cream or patch forms such as BenGay or SalonPas. These are good alternatives to taking pills. I usually prefer to use a more naturally occurring pain reliever such as Arnica Gel. Arnica has long been used medicinally. Its benefits have not yet been fully proven, however, clinical trials have suggested using arnica topically have helped with arthritic pain, sore muscles, swelling, stiffness and bruising after surgery or trauma. Using Arnica on your feet after a long day can help ease your pain. Of course if you have any medical conditions check with your primary care physician first.