4 People at Risk for Foot and Ankle Swelling

Foot and ankle swelling is a remarkably common symptom, yet its underlying causes can be as diverse as the patients experiencing it. While occasional puffiness might be benign, persistent or unexplained swelling in the lower extremities is always a signal from the body that something is wrong. Today, we at Clifton Foot & Ankle Center will unpack four different types of people this may happen to and why.

What is Foot and Ankle Swelling?

Essentially, swelling happens when tiny blood vessels leak fluid into the surrounding tissues more than the lymphatic system can drain it away.

Gravity plays a role in pulling fluid downwards, which is why it is often most noticeable in the feet and ankles, especially after prolonged periods of inactivity or standing. But who are the people this would apply to most?

Athletes

In active individuals and athletes, foot and ankle swelling mostly arises due to injury or overuse. Following an ankle sprain or fracture, swelling is an immediate and necessary part of the body’s healing response.

Blood vessels at the injury site allow fluid and immune cells to rush in, which causes visible puffiness and bruising. Similarly, overuse injuries like severe Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis can trigger inflammation and lead to localized swelling as their body attempts to repair stressed tendon tissues.

Athletics-based swelling is mostly no big deal, but if inflammation does not go down, you should see a podiatrist.

Seniors

The elderly’s circulatory systems may be less efficient, and many of them have Chronic Venous Insufficiency, which is where blood struggles to return against gravity (so it pools in the lower legs and feet). The side effects from the many medications seniors take (such as some blood pressure drugs and NSAIDs) don’t help matters.

Swelling in older adults can also be a sign of more serious systemic issues like congestive heart failure or kidney disease.

Diabetics

Long-term diabetes damages blood vessels. Diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage, can also disrupt the nerves that control blood vessel dilation and constriction, which can lead to swelling.

Diabetics are also more susceptible to infections, and swelling accompanied by redness and warmth can be a critical sign of a spreading foot infection.

Pregnant Women

Pregnancy brings drastic hormonal and bodily changes that commonly result in foot and ankle swelling. The body’s increased blood volume, combined with hormonal shifts that make blood vessel walls more permeable, leads to more fluid circulating and leaking into tissues.

The stomach expansion also puts pressure on the veins and constricts blood from returning to the heart.

No matter if you are pregnant, diabetic, athletic, or geriatric, ankle swelling can be a sign of something serious. Consult with a podiatrist today.

For more foot care facts and advice, consult Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm at Clifton Foot & Ankle Center in Fairfax County, Virginia, about any podiatric concerns you’re facing. Set up an appointment today to find relief!