Foot and ankle swelling is never comfortable. There can be several causes, including blood flow issues, arthritis, or diet concerns. Now that the weather is cooling down, it’s harder to air out those toes, and wearing unsupportive shoes can lead to aggravating existing conditions such as wear-and-tear arthritis in the feet and ankles. Adding an arch support to your shoes may be necessary. We offer medical-grade inserts as well as custom orthotic options.
Keep reading to learn more about what might be causing your swelling.
You Could Be Retaining Salt
Swelling can also be due to salt retention, which happens when we become dehydrated. Just because your legs are holding onto that water does not mean you don’t need to drink more. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water to flush out the salt! Staying hydrated is important no matter the temperature.
When to Consider Circulation Issues
Does the swelling go down at night or when you put your feet up at the end of the day? This can be indicative of venous insufficiency, or veins not performing as well as we would like. Compression socks can help prevent swelling and can be worn comfortably during the day. Compression socks of 10-15 mmHg are recommended for most patients, which are available through our office in a variety of colors and sizes. We are happy to help fit you to the proper size!
Swollen feet and ankles can also be due to an arterial blood flow issue. After a thorough evaluation, further testing may be recommended. We are able to perform a PADNet test at our office to further evaluate your blood flow and determine if further vascular workup is necessary.
Swelling and Diabetes: What You Need to Know
If you have diabetes, you may be at greater risk of swelling in your feet and ankles. This can be due to poor circulation or fluid retention, both common complications of diabetes. Managing swelling is important to avoid further issues, such as discomfort or potentially serious skin breakdown that can lead to wounds and weeping in the legs.
If you have diabetes and are experiencing unusual amounts of swelling, it’s important to see a podiatrist as soon as possible. Our team can perform a thorough evaluation and determine if further testing is necessary.
Swollen Foot Support is in Your Neighborhood
Our goal is to keep our patients “on their feet” as much as possible so they can continue to enjoy all their favorite activities.
If you’re dealing with swollen feet or have any concerns about your foot health, schedule an appointment today. We’re here to help with medical solutions tailored to your needs.
