One of the most common causes of foot pain is inflammation in the feet, ankles, and lower leg. Inflammation can develop for a long list of reasons including injury, overuse, and chronic ailment that requires professional treatment from your podiatrist. The medical term for this condition is peripheral edema.
Inflammation in the feet and ankles may develop as a result of:
- Increased age
- Extended periods of standing
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Blockage of the lymph nodes
- Blood clots
- Burns
- Insect bites
What to do about Inflammation in the Feet and Ankles
It is important to make an appointment with your doctor to rule out serious health problems that could be contributing to swelling. If you are experiencing a decrease in urine output or swelling in your abdomen, especially if you have a history of liver disease, contact your Boca Raton physician immediately.
You should also contact your doctor if you have a fever, or notice that the skin on your foot or ankle is hot to the touch. If you are experiencing shortness of breath or chest pains call 911 immediately.
In the meantime, there are a few things that you can do at home to help deal with swelling in your feet, legs, and ankles:
- Try elevating your legs over your heart when you lay down in the evening. Gravity can assist to redistribute fluids and help reduce swelling. Make sure that you exercise the affected limbs.
- Try taking a walk on the beach here in Boca Raton to get yourself out and moving.
- Try reducing your salt intake to reduce the amount of water your body retains.
You can also purchase a support hose to help cope with swelling, which are available at many drug stores and medical supply centers.
If you go to see your doctor about swelling in your extremities she will want to know which areas you are concerned about and how long the condition has occurred. You will probably also be asked what helps alleviate the swelling. Be sure to bring any medications you might be taking.
