Why Are Your Feet and Ankles Always Swollen?

Are your feet or ankles constantly swollen? Chances are, there’s a medical reason for it, and you deserve to know why. In today’s article, we at PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center will unpack what these causes could be, including what your next step could look like upon seeking treatment.

Causes of Foot and Ankle Swelling

  • Injury: Sprains, strains, or fractures can cause swelling in the affected area.

  • Heart failure: When the heart is unable to pump blood effectively, fluid can build up in the legs and feet.

  • Kidney disease: Kidney problems can lead to fluid retention.

  • Venous insufficiency: This condition occurs when the veins in the legs are unable to pump blood back to the heart efficiently.

  • Lymphatic dysfunction: The lymphatic system helps drain fluid from the tissues. If the lymphatic system is not functioning properly, it can lead to swelling.

  • Arthritis: Certain types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid, can cause inflammation and swelling in the joints.

  • Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot and ankle swelling due to nerve damage and poor circulation.

  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased blood volume during pregnancy can lead to fluid retention and swelling.

  • Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners and calcium channel blockers, can cause swelling.

Treatment for Foot and Ankle Swelling

Treatment depends on the causes above. In general, keeping your feet constantly elevated above your heart can help reduce swelling.

If this is a circulation issue, wearing compression stockings can improve blood flow to the area.

If this is a medical condition, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding prolonged periods of standing or sitting can help prevent swelling. Medications may also be prescribed by your trusted podiatrist to treat the underlying cause.

At PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we treat a diverse variety of foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are eager to serve our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.

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