Swelling in your feet or ankles can be annoying, but at Feet First Foot Care Specialists, our Middlesex County patients will often ask if this is a serious problem. The answer isn’t so easy. Swelling can be common when the weather is hot, you’ve been on your feet for too long, or if you’re pregnant. Some patients are also prone to edema—a condition where excess water in the body gets stored in your tissues, causing puffiness and swelling. However, swollen ankles and feet can be a sign of a more concerning condition.

When Swelling Requires Medical Attention

Some possible medical conditions that podiatric swelling may be indicative of include:

  • Infection
  • Injuries—such as a sprain or fracture
  • Kidney disease
  • Liver problems
  • Heart failure
  • Venous insufficiency
  • Diabetes
  • Lymphedema
  • Blood Clot

For this reason, our podiatrist, Dr. Adam Mucinskas, should evaluate any ongoing swelling issues. To make an appointment at our Cromwell office, call 860-632-5499. The foot doctor will want to examine your feet and get your medical history.

In some cases, swelling in your legs, ankles, or feet may require immediate emergency attention.

Seek emergency care right away if any of these other symptoms accompany your swelling:

  • Fever
  • Chest pain, pressure, or tightness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Redness, warmth, or heat in the swollen area
  • If the swelling is just in one limb

Helpful Tips

In general, you can help decrease swelling (not caused by an underlying medical condition) by eating less salt and drinking plenty of water. Avoid standing for long periods. Leg exercises can help too. Try elevating your feet over your heart at the end of the day or laying on the floor with your feet up against a wall. 

As always, if you have unexplained foot or ankle pain or discomfort, please don’t delay. Contact us today at 860-632-5499.

Questions or Comments?

We encourage you to contact us whenever you have an interest or concern about our services.

Call Today (860) 632-5499

162 West St Ste K Cromwell, CT 06416