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Experiencing Foot Swelling – Care Options
What is Leg Swelling?
Leg swelling is fluid retention or inflammation in diseased or injured muscle tissue or joints. There are many causes, such as an injury, an insect bite, or long periods of standing or sitting in one position, that are easy to identify.
If your legs start to swell, seek medical attention right away, especially if you are also experiencing chest pain, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms that could indicate heart disease or a blood clot.
Common Causes of Leg Pain & Foot Swelling
Swelling of the legs, feet, or ankles is typically caused by inflamed tissue and fluid build-up, which is called edema. Common causes of swelling are:
Physical Injury:
After an injury, swelling happens frequently during the healing process. Some injuries may be plantar fasciitis, a ruptured achilles tendon, varicose veins, a stress fracture, heel pain, deep venous thrombosis, or rheumatoid arthritis. A physical examination is usually necessary.
Overweight:
Excess weight puts strain on the body, especially on the legs and feet.
Edema:
When excess fluid is trapped in the body’s tissues, it causes swelling, or edema. The legs, ankles, feet, or an affected joint are where edema is most likely to collect.
Pregnancy:
Pregnancy can cause swelling in some areas, especially in the legs, ankles, feet, and fingers. The risk can worsen as your pregnancy progresses.
Blood Clot:
Deep venous thrombus (a blood clot) can form in one or more deep veins in the legs, and cause pain and swelling.
Gout:
Caused by a build-up of uric acid, gout often inflames feet, and the big toe can be an especially painful area.
An Infection:
Swelling in the feet, ankles, or lower legs may be brought on by an infection. If your skin is hot to the touch you may have an infection.
Preeclampsia:
Fluid retention and swelling in the hands, feet, ankles, and face may happen as preeclampsia worsens, especially in the third trimester. It frequently happens in the lower body, particularly in the ankles and feet.
Underlying Health Conditions:
Peripheral edema is the medical term for leg swelling brought on by fluid retention in the tissues of the legs and feet. It may be brought on by an issue with the kidneys, lymph nodes, the venous circulation system, or heart disease. Keep track of your medical history.
Diabetes:
Your body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels is impacted by diabetes. Arteries in the legs can be damaged by high blood sugar levels, which results in impaired blood flow.
Care Options for Foot Swelling in Memphis, TN
Physical Therapy for Foot Swelling – Treatment of swelling or puffiness and pain relief are the main goals of long-term care. Ice is a good way to reduce swelling, but the precise treatment strategy will depend on the patient’s condition and symptoms.
Conservative Treatments for Heel Bone Injuries – The usual treatment involves wearing a splint or cast and avoiding walking or standing on your heel for two to three months.
Exercise – Normal activities like walking, biking, and swimming are recommended ways to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Supportive Shoes – Custom orthotics, like shoe inserts or arch supports can help relieve pain for some sufferers.
Increased Water Consumption – Drinking more water can help flush out excess salt and lymphatic fluid.
Compression Socks – These will help the blood in your legs flow upward and reduce swelling.
Medications – If needed, there are various medications for chronic swelling and pain.
Looking for Telehealth Options for Foot Swelling?
Telehealth Podiatry in TN helps people with every type of foot and leg pain, swelling, or other disorder. You have access to world-class care from the comfort of your own home through Telehealth’s virtual house calls and treatment options.
Email us today at info@cefootandankle.com so we can start alleviating you of unwanted swelling and pain!
