When you remove your shoes after a long day, you may notice one or both of your feet are swollen. Also known as edema, swollen feet are the result of fluid building outside of the circulatory system and pooling in the lower extremities due to gravity. It’s rarely painful, but it can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to walk or wear closed shoes, and it could be a sign of a more serious condition. The foot care experts from Foot & Ankle Specialists in Blue Ash, OH, often treat patients living with various forms of swelling and edema. Below, their team of podiatrists lists some common causes of this condition.

Why Is Your Foot Swollen?

1. Sprains

Some swelling is to be expected after an injury. Ankle sprains can occur while exercising, after a fall, or a misstep as you go about your daily routine. These injuries are rarely serious, and the RICE method (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) can reduce pain and swelling within 2 to 3 days.

2. Fractures

Fractures are more serious and painful than a typical ankle sprain. It can occur after a fall, impact, or another form of trauma. Swelling is immediate after this injury. This condition is an emergency situation and should be treated by a doctor right away.

3. Pregnancy

The hormones in pregnancy can affect the circulatory system, making it difficult for blood to flow to the feet and legs. This results in some swelling, which is common and rarely serious. Most women find relief by elevating their feet or seeking out foot care in the form of massage therapy or pedicures. Please note that if the swelling persists and is accompanied by high blood pressure or protein in the urine, it could be a sign of a more dire condition known as preeclampsia.

4. Obesity

Being heavily overweight or obese can cause fluid retention in the lower extremities if you sit or stand for long periods of time. Moving frequently and elevating the feet above the heart can help reduce the swelling. Additionally, many individuals who are overweight find that engaging in an active lifestyle helps to eliminate swelling in the long-term.

If you have recently experienced swelling or foot pain following an injury and would like to seek treatment, contact the Foot & Ankle Specialists. These foot care experts have three locations in Ohio. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 769-4408 for their Blue Ash location, (513) 541-5709 for Cincinnati, and (513) 423-0672 for Franklin. To learn more about their other foot care services, visit them online today.