Foot swelling – probable causes and remedies

Having swollen feet can be really problematic. You can’t stand for long, walk properly and of course can’t flaunt your fancy footwear. Certain work conditions demand standing for long hours. This may result in foot swelling. While you can’t stop working just because you need to stand continuously, but if the problem persists for long then this may signal towards other complications. Often people have this tendency to ignore foot conditions, thinking that these would heal naturally. The fact is that your feet actually act as indicator for other serious health problems. Hence don’t ignore foot pain or swelling. Causes of sudden foot swelling are many, few of which are discussed here.

Pregnancy is bliss but the would-be-mom has to endure several irritating health complications, feet swelling being one of them. However if the problem continues and takes serious shape then this may be a sign of over-pronation and edema. Sudden rise in high blood pressure level and protein in urine may trigger this problem along with some other complications like abdominal pain, headache, etc. Few precautionary measures, like using proper footwear or keeping your feet in an elevated position if sitting for long can reduce swelling to great extent. Foot or ankle injury, especially an ankle sprain can lead to inflammation. Best way to reduce the swelling effect is avoid putting much stress on the injured part. Doctors often prescribe compression bandage or ice packs for sprains and swellings. Foot infections can take serious shape, mainly for diabetic patients or those with nerve problems. This may result in sudden swelling of feet and ankles. Hence those suffering from diabetic neuropathy need to consult a podiatrist from time to time, whenever they notice any abnormality in their feet.

If you ever experience swelling of one leg, along with low-grade fever as well as change in color of the affected leg then this in all probability is because of blood clot. While superficial clots occurring just beneath the skin may not be that serious but the deeper ones can prove to be life-threatening. These can block major veins of your leg thus affecting heart or lungs. Venous insufficiency is another condition which can cause feet and ankle swelling. Damaged valves fail to carry blood from feet and legs up to the heart which results in blood leaking back down and getting deposited in softer tissues of your ankles and feet.

Certain medications have side effects. Those who have to take regular medicine for high blood pressure, depression or diabetes are prone to foot inflammation. Again drugs related to hormone replacement therapy may also lead to ankle or foot swelling. It is not possible for a common man to know about such side effects. However, if certain foot conditions develop within few days of starting the new medicine then prompt action is advised.

Don’t just consult any general physician for foot problems. Get the guidance of an expert podiatric physician who is the right person to understand the gravity of the situation. Remember that your foot is one significant body part whose erratic functioning can come in the way of healthy living.

Know various effective options to get rid of heel spur

Heel is a significant portion of the foot which supports body weight. When this body weight starts causing discomfort it may result in heel pain. Soreness mainly occurs just under the heel or behind it. Sometimes the pain goes away with adequate rest. However the situation can turn grave with development of heel spurs which are abnormal bone growths extending from the heel bone or from the side. Because of excess calcium deposits the plantar fascia, i.e. the ligament, stretches away from the heel, thus causing ache. Heel spur is one condition which is not noticed within a day or two but is caused over an elongated period.

Before talking about the treatment, it is important to know what causes heel spur. Overuse or heavy stress on the plantar fascia may result in heel pain. Athletes whose activities mainly include running or jumping are prone to this foot condition. People who suffer from arthritis or gait can’t walk properly. This may result in putting greater stress on the heel portion or the ligament. Obesity and excessive body weight may also cause heel spur. So, next time you gorge on that cheese cake, think twice! Poorly fitted shoes, especially the ones without proper arch support are to blame too for heel problems.

Sometimes people develop heel spur but remain oblivious of that simply because they don’t feel any pain. Yes, this is the fact. Problem starts when the spur protrudes into soft tissues around the heel area thus resulting in inflammation and pain. You may even notice bruises around the spot. Pain mostly becomes unbearable if you need to stand or walk for a long period. Many complain of severe aching while getting out from bed in the morning.

Treating heel spur is not that difficult, one effective option being orthotic shoes with good arch support and medial posting. These specially designed orthotics help control pronation, thus resulting in reduction of pain and inflammation.  If you want to get faster relief then customized orthotics is an even better option. For the purpose, you need to consult a podiatrist who will provide you with the custom-made orthotics, specifically designed to suit your particular foot condition. Such shoes may come at a cost but you can be sure of its longevity and effectiveness. Heel cup is another option to treat heel pain. These are special shoe inserts which provide perfect cushion for your sore heel. Be sure to check out for blisters if you are using heel cups for the first time. While buying footwear you need to be careful too. Select shoes with proper arch support, firm heel counter and suitable heel height. So, it’s time to sacrifice those high heeled stilettos, if you indeed want to keep your feet in perfect shape.

Foot is one body part which is often neglected. You notice it only when it starts giving problem and then consult a podiatrist when the foot condition has already turned grave. This is an absolutely wrong approach. Keep in mind that early treatment means saving time and money and of course getting faster respite.