Overland Park Office - 10701 Nall Ave., Suite 120, Overland Park, KS 66211
Blue Springs Office - 1050 South Outer Road, Blue Springs, MO 64015
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Overland 913-381-5515
Blue Springs 816-228-9393
It seems that as we grow older, our bodies begin to disagree with us more and more each day. Joints begin to ache, eyes aren’t as sharp as they once were and our feet and ankles begin to swell and throb. Aging brings a lot of changes, and questions. Let’s explore one of these physical responses that many of us experience at various seasons of life and for various causes: swelling of the feet and ankles.
Causes
Edema is the swelling of soft tissues that results with excess fluid accumulation and retention. Swelling is particularly noticeable in the lower extremities. Generally painless, it’s a common problem as we age, but it may be symptomatic of serious health problems including heart, kidney, or liver failure, obesity or injury. Swelling of the lower extremities is also a complication of pregnancy.
Preventive Measures
- Elevate your legs at every opportunity. Use your recliner to get your feet up, or prop your legs up with pillows.
- Avoid constrictive clothing.
- Lower your salt intake.
- Keep moving; walk, swim or bike. Start out slow, and walk your way steadily toward a healthier lifestyle. Sitting around too much is hard on every part of your body; not just your feet and ankles.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Swelling of the feet, ankles, and lower legs seems to come with the territory as we grow older, but there are times when you should contact your doctor immediately:
- Some swelling is normal when you’re pregnant, but sudden, excessive swelling can be the sign of a serious condition.
- When a foot or ankle injury is accompanied by swelling and severe pain that doesn’t improve when you prop up your foot, use ice packs or wrap it carefully with a compression bandage, call your doctor.
- If you’re undergoing cancer treatment, and experience swelling, call your doctor.
- If you suffer an infection, or have a blister that breaks open on a swollen foot or ankle, call your doctor.
- Certain medications may cause swelling. If you believe you are swelling due to a medication you’re taking, call your doctor.
Call Dr. Fleishman at 913-381-5515 in Overland Park, Kansas, and at 816-228-9393 in Blue Springs, Missouri if you experience any of the issues above associated with swelling of the feet or ankles. Dr. Fleishman provides personalized treatment plans to meet each patient’s physical and medical needs. As a foot and ankle specialist, Dr. Fleishman provides services including routine check-ups, surgery procedures of the foot and ankle and patient education. When you come to our office, you are our priority. Our qualified, friendly staff proudly provides the highest quality foot care in and around Kansas City. Call today, or learn more at www.fleishmandpm.com.
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