The View from Where I Sit

Tag: blogging

  • Beyond the Ballot: Building a Disabled People’s Charter

    Disabled people are too often excluded from the political conversations and decisions that shape our everyday lives. From transport and housing to social care, employment, healthcare and accessibility.
    That’s why I’m really pleased to be part of this upcoming online conversation hosted by the Purple Collective and Our House.

    We’ll discuss building a Disabled People’s Charter shaped by lived experience, collective discussion and practical ideas for change.
    If you’re disabled, working in disability inclusion, interested in policy and systems change, or simply want to contribute to a better future, we’d love you to join us.

    Reimagining a society and democracy that works for disabled people.

    Our House is proud to partner with the Purple Collective to host this one-hour online workshop bringing disabled people together to help shape a new Disabled People’s Charter.

    This session is about more than individual policies or political parties. It’s about asking a bigger question:

    What would society look like if disabled people were genuinely heard, valued, and included in decisions that affect our lives?

    Together, we’ll explore the changes disabled people want to see across areas such as:

    Transport
    Housing
    Healthcare
    Employment
    Education
    Social care
    Participation in public life

    The ideas and outcomes from this session will help feed into Our House’s wider People’s Charter initiative, which seeks to build a fairer and more inclusive future for everyone.

    Who Is This For?
    Any disabled person who wants to see their voice at the heart of power and their experiences and ideas used to help shape a better future. You do not need any political experience or expertise to participate. Just your lived experience, ideas, and willingness to contribute.


    Too often, disabled people are consulted after decisions have already been made. This session is an opportunity to come together earlier, share experiences openly, and help shape a collective vision for what disabled people need from society and from those in power. Bringing together Our House’s expertise in people-powered democratic methodology and Purple Collective’s dedication to authentic disability representation and inclusion, we will draft a Disabled People’s Charter.

    You’ll be invited to decide the next steps and build on what we cover in the session. So, if you’re passionate about disabled people’s rights, disability justice, or just want a better political system, come along and help shape the beginning of the Purple Chartist movement!

    We hope this will be the beginning of an ongoing conversation that grows into a community focused on building lasting change together.

  • Disability Pride vs. Healing: Are We Falling into Ableism?

    The relationship between Disability Pride and healing is complex and multifaceted. While Disability Pride can be a powerful tool for self-acceptance and empowerment, it is essential to balance it with the importance of healing and recovery.

    What is disability pride?
    Disability pride is the acceptance and honoring of each person’s uniqueness, viewing it as a natural and beautiful part of human diversity. It celebrates the disabled identity and promotes self-determination, combating stigma and shame associated with disabilities.

    What is healing?

    Healing is the act or process of curing or of restoring to health. It is the process of becoming well again, especially after a cut or other injury, or of making someone well again. Wounds should be covered with a gauze dressing while healing occurs. Healing can also refer to the process in which a bad situation or painful emotion ends or improves.

    Here are some key points to consider:


    Disability Pride as a Source of Healing: Pride can foster a sense of community and connection among individuals with disabilities, which can be therapeutic. It can also serve as a reminder of the strength and resilience that come with living with a disability.

    Balancing Pride with Healing: It is important to recognize that pride and healing are not mutually exclusive. Individuals with disabilities can benefit from both aspects of the Disability Pride movement and personal healing processes.

    Addressing Ableism: The movement for Disability Pride is also a response to ableism, which can be a barrier to healing and personal growth. By challenging and countering ableism, individuals with disabilities can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for themselves and their communities.


    Seeking Professional Help: For those struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues related to their disability, seeking therapy from a professional trained in disability issues can be beneficial.

    Fostering a Culture of Healing: It is crucial to create a culture that values the healing process and recognizes the importance of personal growth and recovery alongside Disability Pride. This can involve advocating for accessible healthcare, educational resources, and legal protections that support the needs of individuals with disabilities.

    In conclusion, while Disability Pride is a vital aspect of the journey towards healing and personal growth, it is essential to maintain a balance between the two. By embracing both aspects, individuals with disabilities can work towards a more fulfilling and empowered life.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ywYUJ8ORxI&list=PL9lUmHuFTiytByr_ZlUySjdkgUkpGojtP

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DJm0ALnNEdJ/

    https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/disability-is-diversity/202008/how-disability-pride-fights-ableism?msockid=30a9b117ac516ec22315a595ad9a6fc2

    http://heartsc.org

  • Swimming for People with Special Needs

    Walking onto the beach, feeling the sand between your toes and as you step into the ocean you can see your feet through the clear blue water. What a wonderful experience for many, but for some of us who can’t walk, going to the beach may not be such a joyous occasion.

    First of all when it comes to accessibility, there are the barriers to get into the beach and in order for a wheelchair to get through it takes two or three people to lift it over.

    Also, sometimes because of various disabilities, some of us have no sensation in our feet, the waist down or even the neck down. So consequently, we don’t have the luxury of feeling the sand between our toes or the ocean on our feet, which makes it even harder to enjoy.

    But aside from that, there are many swimming tools that we can use to enhance our swimming experience like rubber rings, life jackets, and other devices. There are also beach chairs available for wheelchair users to sit in while in the water.

    One summer I worked as a junior counselor at an inclusive camp at Wind Reach Recreational Village. While working there, there was one little boy named Dylan who needed to use a trachea and I remember when the camp had Water Day every Friday he was not able to participate with everyone else because if he got his trachea wet it would be harmful to him.

    There was also a girl there who had a problem where she had to be constantly monitored in the water and all counselors had to make sure that she didn’t fall asleep because if she did she could end up having a seizure in her sleep which is life threatening for her. Working at the camp was such an eye opener to the vast range of disabilities that are in Bermuda.

  • The only disability in life is a bad attitude

    We have ALL heard the quote “the only disability in life is a bad attitude”.

    This quote is profoundly stupid, misleading, and harmful because it oversimplifies the complex nature of disabilities and dismisses the real challenges faced by disabled individuals.

    What we need is a change in societal attitudes, not a dismissal of the lived experiences of those with disabilities.

    People with disabilities deal with pain, fatigue, accessibility issues, medical costs, and social discrimination.

    Does having a bad attitude often hinder your life and personal growth?

    In my opinion absolutely.

    But suggesting that a bad attitude is the only real disability is nonsense.

    Why are people still using this quote?

    My name is Daniella Jade Lowe and this is The View from Where I Sit!!!

  • Reflections and Key Messages from Luke Chapter 5

    1. Paralysed Man
    • We don’t know if the man had always been paralysed – for some people disability is life-long, for others it happens through illness or accident or later in life.
    • Being paralysed, he wouldn’t have been able to move around by himself, leave the house or earn a living – he would be completely dependent on others for everything.
    • It is likely that the only way of him being able to get his basic needs to survive would be to be carried outside into the town square to beg.
    • This same situation happens today in many developing countries where disabled people are still treated as outcasts.
    • Through the Roof ‘Wheels for the World’ mission trips constantly meet people who are in this situation. The trips take refurbished wheelchairs and mobility aids, along with Bibles, for people just
      like the paralysed man in Luke 5.
    • What did the paralysed man need – he needed to know Jesus.
    • What do our Wheels for the World recipients need – the need is still exactly the same – they need to know Jesus – demonstrated through the love of Christians providing a wheelchair and a Bible.

    2. The Four Friends
    These men were true friends – they saw past the man’s disability. They saw the man himself as a friend and responded to what he needed. They treated him with love, respect and compassion.

    • It probably wasn’t easy carrying the man on the stretcher.
    • We don’t know how far they had to carry him.
    • They worked together and they were determined, because they knew how important this was for the paralysed man.
    • When they arrived and couldn’t get into the house, they must have felt they were never going to succeed in getting their friend to Jesus.
    • It was a brave idea to break through the roof – what would the owner of the house say, or do to them?
    • They put their friend’s needs before their own safety or reputation. They knew how important it was for him to meet Jesus.
    • The situation is exactly the same today – it is just as important for disabled people to meet Jesus today as it was then
    • Through the Roof’s ‘Roofbreaker’ project is exactly this – to break down the barriers that might prevent disabled people from meeting Jesus.
    • It goes further than that too… once someone meets Jesus, they will want to serve Him and tell others about Him too – so barriers need to be removed so that disabled people can not only come to faith, but grow in faith and share that faith in the same way as everyone.

    3. The Crowd
    The Bible account says that those who were present when the man was lowered through the roof were ‘amazed and gave praise to God. They were filled with awe’.

    • The Pharisees and teachers of the law who were present didn’t recognise who Jesus was. Jesus chose a disabled man to demonstrate exactly who He was.
    • Jesus could have just healed the man, but He didn’t. Jesus chose this moment to demonstrate that He was indeed the Son of Man and that He did indeed have authority to forgive sins.
    • What an honour for the paralysed man to be chosen to display Jesus’ authority in this way.
    • How much more important it is to meet Jesus, to know who He is, and to have your sins forgiven than just to be physically healed?
      Physical healing can only be temporary – our earthly bodies will one day die – but when Jesus forgives our sins, He is giving the gift of eternal life.
    • So, what impact did it have on the lives of those who witnessed this?
    • Imagine you were one of the people in that crowd. That moment would be a transforming point in your life because of what you had witnessed. That’s why it’s important today to hear about how God still works in and through the lives of disabled people.
    • The personal stories of disabled people whose lives have been changed by Jesus are incredibly powerful. We need to hear more of them, so that Jesus can work through those to transform other lives too.

      4. Our Response
    • How does the account of the paralysed man affect us even today as we hear it and respond to its message?
    • What do we learn from the paralysed man – are we seeking our own encounter with Jesus that will transform our lives completely?
      Jesus can take our weakness, transform it, and glorify God. Like the paralysed man, our lives will never be the same again once we have had a life-changing encounter with Jesus. And of course, then we need to respond and make sure others can come to know Jesus too.
    • What do we learn from the four friends?
    • God can use us if we have faith in Him. We may not need to break through roofs, but there are still barriers today that prevent disabled people from coming to Jesus – what can we do?
    • Let’s dig through that roof!
      Let’s break down the barriers!
    • The barriers might not always be what we would think. The barriers in our churches are not always
      to do with the building, there can be other barriers too – we need to ask disabled people themselves so that we can break through those barriers as the four friends did.
    • And what do we learn from the ‘others’ in the story?
    • Are we people who are amazed and give praise to God?
    • Are we ‘filled with awe’ by observing Jesus in action as they were?
    • Or are we like the Pharisees and teachers of the law clinging on to our traditionalism and not being willing to change?
    • If we see Jesus for who He really is, all this will be turned on its head. How will we respond?
      It’s time for churches to make sure there aren’t any barriers for disabled people coming to Jesus. Take an honest look, but most importantly ask disabled people if there are any barriers they are facing. And remember there’s lots of help available – Through the Roof will be delighted to help.
      We all need to be transformed by Jesus and that’s exactly what Through the Roof is aiming for.
    • Through the Roof’s mission is: ‘Transforming lives through Jesus with disabled people’. That is exactly what we see in the account of the paralysed man. It is Jesus doing the transforming, but Jesus not only transforms the life of a disabled person, Jesus also works through this person to transform the lives of others too.

    Stay tuned for our next Disability Awareness Sunday Service on the 17th of September 2023!

  • NORTH AND WEST YORKSHIRE ASBAH COMMUNITY CONFERENCE

    NORTH AND WEST YORKSHIRE ASBAH COMMUNITY CONFERENCE

    After 50 years of service, The North and West Yorkshire ASBAH had their first ever Community Conference. It was held on the 16th of October, at Hollins Hall Hotel, Golf and Country Club in Bradford. This was a day planned especially for people in the Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus communities to come together and celebrate. There was lots of information on continence care, PIP and DLA form advice, education, and pressure ulcer prevention and cure.

    During the first workshop, I joined the PURSUN Group from Leeds, to do a presentation on Pressure Ulcer Prevention and Cure. It was very good to meet Delia Muir and share my experiences on the subject.

    Heather Chapman was at the ASBAH Charity conference, talking to wheelchair users about nutritional therapy by Wheely Therapy. Nutritional therapy is the application of nutrition science in the promotion of health, peak performance and individual care.

    Nutritional therapy practitioners use a wide range of tools to assess and identify potential nutritional imbalances and understand how these may contribute to an individual’s symptoms and health concerns. This approach allows them to work with individuals to address nutritional balance and help support the body towards maintaining health.

    Nutritional therapy is recognised as a complementary medicine. It is relevant both for individuals looking to enhance their health and wellbeing and for those with chronic conditions wishing to work with or ‘consult’ a nutritional therapist in collaboration with other suitably qualified healthcare professionals.

    I also learned about SEND. This presentation workshop was about guidance on the special educational needs and disability system for children and young people aged 0 to 25, which started on 1 September 2014. The questionnaire that the presenter gave out, was a very good teaching tool.

    Additionally, there were stalls and activities for the children. There were free prizes and charity merchandise on display as well. One of our sponsors, Irwin Mitchell, provided bags with freebies inside too. They also support the SHINE Charity.

    Dr. Kate Wildig was the guest speaker who ended the whole conference. North and West Yorkshire ASBAH has a good support group. Use It!

    https://fb.watch/fgJu3S12UL/

    https://form.jotform.com/katyravenasbah/conference-registration-form

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/north-and-west-yorkshire-asbah/

    https://www.nwyasbah.org/nwyasbah

    https://www.carefreesmarthomes.co.uk/group/disability-diary/discussion/b86d1cfe-90c2-42e7-9229-e3043c3b46cc

    http://www.wheelyhealthy.co.uk

    https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/send-code-of-practice-0-to-25

    https://www.hollister.co.uk/en-gb/products/ostomy-care-products

    https://www.irwinmitchell.com/?ref=google&infinity=ict2~net~gaw~ar~353754706478~kw~irwin%20mitchell~mt~e~cmp~MEC+Brand+HV+Irwin+Mitchell+Exact~ag~Brand+-+HV+Core&&ds_lpt_start&ds_lpt_end&gclid=CjwKCAjw-rOaBhA9EiwAUkLV4hbptkb2WjS1oL5NWyP1zEv8oaEMV66IqQXjPXb8DbSqSlgIv38NDxoCl8IQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

    https://www.bbuk.org.uk/adults/adults-resources/
    https://theelitevenueselection.co.uk/?fbclid=IwAR0ZkWVptOo3R3Op17iYaqol5fZ5lsQ8b-9Nc8cqAgOD8A1lVR1P088UJdI

  • Bradford for Everyone Shared Values Campaign

    Manningham Housing Association has a new project called Building Bridges Bradford Project of which aims to bring diverse groups and voices together during the Pandemic. Besides building the community, the project aims to tackle mental health. As has been highlighted by the experts and in the media, with the pandemic, some cases of mental health have been raised.

    The new project by the Association therefore aims to build bridges between its residents in the community in various ways.

    In the next year, between January to March, we would be delighted if you could deliver a confidence building/ awareness workshop on the disabled group.

    Our aim to activate community conversations and bring different communities together.  For you, how you deliver the session/s is up to you (to be discussed).

    Information useful for the project:

    1. We would like course structures between 2-8 weeks, a session each week/ fortnightly/monthly.
    2. They can run between 60 mins-2 hours a session (2 hours however might be too long. We recommend 1hr sessions max to ensure active engagement and participation. You might however have other ideas-open to hear about them).
    3. Suitability of time depends on your structure and audience you wish to target (family programmes for instance may happen after school or on weekends in the afternoon).
    4. Regards to the number of participants expected to attend, this depends on the audience interested in this session and themes that you are keen to offer. For example,  you could incorporate a number of 121 sessions to specifically positively impact some individuals who may best benefit from this. You can also run group sessions.
    5. Age range: any (might depend on your offering/s). We would, however, like to impact all age groups for greater impact. Maybe you might like to break down activities by age.
    6. Ethnicities: All (we aim to inspire community integration, conversations& learning)

    As you may have gathered, we are very flexible on your delivery. Our main aim is to positively impact as many people as possible. It’s however not about numbers, you might propose to work with few individuals of whom you can truly positively impact…impact is better than numbers.

    As of  Covid-19 ,  all sessions will run online ( over Zoom/other) unless Covid-19 Tiers allow otherwise.

    If you have any more queries, please send these or send a time of your availability so that we can discuss this further.

    Bradford District Shared Values

    https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/1e05b983451d484fb7ad920ee2aa01f9

  • Disabled People’s Action Group

    Disabled People’s Action Group

    Equality Together Bradford is a local user-led organisation for disabled people, their carers and families. Their services are currently available to people who live in the Bradford Metropolitan District. Some of their services include Self and Group Advocacy.

    Non Statutory Self & Group Advocacy is about taking control of decisions about yourself and telling others what you want.

    At Equality Together, their aim is to help you speak up and have your voice heard. They have a few ways of doing this.

    One way of doing this is through the Disabled People’s Action Group. The Disabled People’s Action Group (DPAG) is a new group of people with physical disabilities, sensory impairments, mental health issues, learning disabilities and long-term illness. 

    Their aim is to build on the work done by the Disabled People’s Forum, focusing on campaigning and highlighting issues concerning people with disabilities.

    The logo is a dark grey square with ‘Disabled People’s Action Group’ in white text down the left side. A large orange arrow symbol is on the right, pointing right. Bradford and District is in dark grey text on an orange rectangle at the bottom.

    https://www.facebook.com/DisabledPeoplesActionGroup

    Twitter – @BradfordDPAG

    http://www.equalitytogether.org.uk

  • Pressure Ulcers, Transferring Equipment and Techniques

    Now that I’m a PURSUN Researcher, I’ve been studying pressure ulcers, prevention and cures. During my research, I’ve noticed we’ve discussed pressure points, mattresses, dieting, hygiene and PICOs, but nobody said anything about transferring techniques and equipment.

    Ever since my journey to fight against pressure ulcers has started, my transferring techniques have changed. While living in Bermuda, I was taught to ‘bum shuffle’ from, let’s say, my wheelchair to the bed or a chair. However, I was told that this is wrong. Climbing in and out of bed can also be risky, especially when barefoot. As a result, my transferring techniques have changed since then.

    Nowadays to prevent pressure ulcers, it has been suggested that I use a banana board or a sliding sheet from BACES in Bradford.

    The Bradford and Airedale Community Equipment Service (BACES) is a partnership between Bradford Social Services and the NHS in Bradford and Airedale.

    This service has been set up to provide you and your family with a wide range of equipment, to help you live more independently.

    Banana Transfer Board

    This Banana Transfer Board is designed to assist in the seated transfer of a patient between two surfaces.

    Transfers from Bed to wheelchair, wheelchair to Chair, wheelchair to toilet and the like, are just some of the uses the board can be put to. It was made from an extremely durable and hard-wearing materials, the transfer board is curved to facilitate positioning and features anti-slip pads on the underside for safer location and a convenient carrying handle. The board has a maximum user weight of 200 kgs (over 30 Stone) and can be easily cleaned with soapy water/alcohol/disinfectant and a non-abrasive cloth. I’ve tried this but it’s too hard on the buttocks and doesn’t help with shearing pressure.

    Hoists
    Hoists provide support for lifting and moving those in need from one place to another without causing undue stress or discomfort. They are used for moving from bed into a wheelchair, or vice versa, the range can carry a variety of weights and are good for the bathroom, bedroom, and all points in between. Part of the medical supplies and aids range, they also offer battery monitors, chargers, and slings for your hoist so you can be fully prepared to face the day. There are also travel cases available if you need to go somewhere and take your hoist with you, and specialist hoists for wet environments like the bathroom.

    Lateral Transfer Slide Board

    This is designed for use with the Transfer Glide Sheet, this Lateral Transfer Slide enables easy transfers between beds, trolleys, tables and treatment couches.

    It works by creating a stable, slip-resistant platform between the two points and by providing a smooth top surface over which the patient can easily be moved without the need for lifting. User comfort is enhanced by the slide’s tapered edges, which pass easily under the body, whilst the handles around the perimeter provide plenty of convenient places to grip and hold it steady. I’ve tried this but it’s risky and slightly flimsy.

    All our equipment is clean and maintained to the highest standards.

    What equipment do we offer?

    Equipment to help with:

    • moving, handling and walking 
    • bathing, showering and toileting 
    • household and kitchen tasks 
    • nursing tasks

    Commodes can also be used for pressure relief.

    Proper Transfer Techniques

    • The push-up – Use the wheelchair armrests (or wheels if you don’t have any) to push up out of the seat with your arms. You should straighten your arms fully so that your elbows are locked. Then ensure that the buttocks and lower back are fully out of the seat.
    • The forward lean – Lean forward as far as you can – imagine that you are trying to rest your chest on your knees! This movement is particularly good for relieving pressure on the coccyx.
    • Leaning side-to-side – Whilst seated, shift your body weight onto your left side to lift your right side out of your seat. Then repeat on the other side. Like the push-up, this movement relieves pressure from the buttocks and the lower back. However, because this is a more subtle movement it’s great to perform whilst you’re out and about!

    Why is proper transfer technique so important?

    Correct technique should minimise risk of skin injuries. Incorrect technique can increase your risk of falls during transfers. Managing the injuries which result from poor technique can be difficult and lengthy. Prevention is far superior to cure!

    https://www.bradford.gov.uk/adult-social-care/living-independently/bradford-and-airedale-community-equipment-service/

    https://www.completecareshop.co.uk/medical-supplies-aids

    https://www.yorkshirecareequipment.com/advice-tips/pressure-relief-techniques-for-wheelchair-users/

    Click to access the-role-of-the-physiotherapist-in-the-prevention-and-management-of-pressure-ulcer-cathy-quinn-201119.pdf

  • The frequency of lymphoedema in an adult Spina Bifida population

    The Fight Against Pressure Ulcers

    Lymphoedema


    Lymphoedema is a swelling often of your legs which is due to fluid collecting in the tissues under the skin. This can leave you prone to cellulitis and skin breakdown, and can interfere with independence as your legs get heavy and difficult to move. Ask your GP to arrange treatment with pressure stockings or appliances, which are very effective.

    The National Lymphedema Network (lymphnet.org) defines lymphedema as “an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the interstitial tissue that causes swelling, most often in the arms and/or legs, and occasionally in other parts of the body. Lymphedema can develop when lymphatic vessels are missing or impaired or when lymph vessels are damaged or lymph nodes removed.

    Feet
    It is suggested that you see a podiatrist/chiropodist regularly to have your toenails cut and hard skin removed if you have loss of feeling or poor circulation in your feet. Use a foot-softening cream on your feet and moisturiser on your legs to prevent cracking as bacteria can enter this way. If your skin is very dry, use aqueous cream instead of soap when bathing. Dry carefully between your toes and treat athlete’s foot straight away. Creams and sprays are available from pharmacies and larger supermarkets.

    There have been very few studies to date documenting the occurrence of lymphedema in the Spina Bifida population, despite a case series in 2001 that suggested that the occurrence may be higher than in the general population. A total of 240 electronic medical records from the Adult Spina Bifida Clinic from January 2005 to August 2008 were retrospectively reviewed.

    This is why incontinence/ moisture management, movement, and sensation are important for Spina Bifida patients.

    10 Methods to tackle swollen feet

    1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day
      Though it might seem counterintuitive, getting enough fluids actually helps reduce swelling. When your body isn’t hydrated enough, it holds onto the fluid it does have. This contributes to swelling.
    2. Buy compression socks
      Compression socks can be found at a drug or grocery store or even bought online. Start with compression socks that are between 12 to 15 mm or 15 to 20 mm of mercury.

    They come in a variety of weights and compressions, so it might be best to start off with lighter-weight socks and then find the kind that provides the most relief.

    1. Soak in a cool Epsom salt bath for about 15 to 20 minutes
      Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) may not only help with muscle pain. It may also reduce swelling and inflammation. The theory is that Epsom salt draws out toxins and increases relaxation.

    Just make sure to get Epsom salts marked with the USP designation. This means that it meets standards set forth by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is safe to use.

    1. Elevate your feet, preferably above your heart
      Prop your feet on cushions, pillows, or even things like phone books, when you sleep. If you’re looking to reduce foot swelling while pregnant, try elevating your feet several times a day as well. Aim for about 20 minutes at a time, even on an ottoman or a chair.

    Try to avoid standing for long periods of time and stay off your feet when you can.

    1. Get moving!
      If you sit or stand in one area for a long period of time (like at work), this can lead to swollen feet. Try to move a little bit each hour, even if it’s a walk to the break room, a walk around the block at lunch, flexing your knees and ankles, or a lap around the office.
    2. Magnesium supplements can be helpful for some people
      If you retain water, you might have a magnesium deficiency. Eating foods high in magnesium can help. Magnesium-rich foods. Trusted Source to add to your diet include:
    • almonds
    • tofu
    • cashews
    • spinach
    • dark chocolate
    • broccoli
    • avocados
    • Taking 200 to 400 milligrams of magnesium daily might help with the swelling. But before you take any kind of supplement, ask your doctor. Magnesium supplements aren’t right for everyone, especially if you have a kidney or heart condition.
    1. Make some dietary changes
      Reducing your sodium intake can help decrease swelling in your body, including in your feet. Opt for low-sodium versions of your favourite foods, and try to refrain from adding salt to meals.
    2. Lose weight if you’re overweight
      Being overweight can cause reduced blood circulation, leading to swelling of the lower extremities. It can also lead to extra strain on the feet, causing pain when walking. This can result in being more sedentary — which can also cause fluid buildup in the feet.

    Losing weight can help ease the strain on your feet and possibly reduce foot swelling as well. Talk with your doctor about whether you need to lose weight and healthy ways to go about doing so.

    1. Massage your feet
      Massage can be great for swollen feet and can also promote relaxation. Massage (or have someone massage them for you!) your feet toward your heart with firm strokes and some pressure. This can help move the fluid out of the area and reduce swelling.
    2. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods
      A potassium deficiency can contribute to high blood pressure and water retention. If you have no dietary restrictions, consider eating foods containing potassium. Some potassium-rich foods. Trusted Source include:
    • sweet potatoes
    • white beans
    • bananas
    • salmon
    • pistachios
    • chicken
    • Try drinking orange juice or low-fat milk instead of soda, too. If you have any medical conditions, especially kidney issues, talk with your doctor before adding lots of potassium to your diet.

    How long should I elevate my feet to reduce swelling?


    The more the swelling and the longer there has been swelling, the longer and more frequently your need to elevate your legs. Start with 20 minutes twice a day. This might do the trick. If not, go to 30 minutes or even an hour.

    LET’S WORK TOGETHER TO STOP THE PRESSURE!!!

    https://www.shinecharity.org.uk/self-care/skin-and-tissue

    https://mobilitymgmt.com/Articles/2011/06/01/Lymphedema.aspx