Swollen ankles are often caused by a buildup of fluid in the soft tissues, known as edema. This can develop for many reasons, including standing or sitting in one position for too long, consuming high amounts of salt, being overweight, pregnancy, or taking certain medications. Swollen ankles may also result from an ankle sprain, infection, insect bite, or more serious conditions involving the heart, kidneys, or liver. Symptoms can include puffiness around the ankles and feet, shiny or stretched skin, skin discoloration, and discomfort or stiffness. In some cases, pressing the skin may leave a dent. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam to determine whether the swelling is linked to an injury, circulation problem, or another medical condition. Depending on the cause, treatment may involve reducing inflammation, draining excess fluid, prescribing medication, or correcting biomechanical issues with the foot or ankle. In severe or persistent cases, surgery may be recommended to resolve structural or vascular concerns. If you have swollen ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Graff Foot, Ankle and Wound Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:
- Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
- Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
- Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
- Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
- Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.
Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet.
Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Plano, Dallas, Prosper, Allen, Irving, Garland, Frisco, and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.