If you experience this form of peripheral edema for long periods of time, there could be an underlying condition. In this article, we are going to explore what causes this type of swelling on top of the feet and ankles, prevention, possible solutions, and much more.
Swelling On Top of Foot
A whopping 20% of older Americans experience swelling in the feet. Swelling on the top of the foot, otherwise known as peripheral edema, can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as weakness, pain, and limited range of motion.
Most of the time, swelling in the ankles or on top of the feet is not a major cause for concern. However, that doesn’t mean that this form of swelling can’t lead to major discomfort or affect your activities of daily living.
If you experience this form of peripheral edema for long periods of time, there could be an underlying condition. In this article, we are going to explore what causes this type of swelling on top of the feet and ankles, prevention, possible solutions, and much more.
What Causes It Swelling On The Top of The Foot?
Peripheral edema is a condition of fluid build-up in the lower extremities of the body, such as the feet and legs. There are various reasons why this type of swelling may occur. This may be caused by serious conditions, such as circulatory problems, or just a side-effect of something as minor as sitting for too long. Let’s explore the different possible causes.
Circulatory Problems
Chronic Kidney Disease
As kidney disease progresses, the kidneys are not able to flush out toxins and excess fluid as well. This can lead to a build-up of fluid in the body and result in peripheral edema.
Venous Insufficiency
Venous insuffiiciency occurs when a person’s blood is unable to flow properly around the body. When the venous walls and valves are not working correctly, it is difficult for blood to return to the heart from the legs. This causes blood to collect in the veins of the lower body and results in an excess build-up of fluid. This is commonly seen in those with varicose veins and cardiovascular disease.
Medication Side Effects
Some mediations may cause swelling on the top of the foot. There are numerous medications that have an increased risk of leading to water retention. Some of the most common medications include hormonal drugs, blood pressure medications, steroids, antidepressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and some diabetes medications.
Hormonal Changes
When natural hormone levels fluctuate, such as with estrogen and progesterone, it can cause fluid retention due to decreased circulation in the legs. These hormonal shifts occur during pregnancy and a women’s menstrual cycle.
Injury or Infection
A normal response to injuries, such as a broken ankle or severe burns, results in a cascade of inflammatory reactions. This trauma and inflammation can cause swelling in the affected area.
Inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are known to result in the buildup of fluid in the body and result in uncomfortable swelling on top of the feet and ankles.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a form of liver disease. It results in severe scarring of the liver, due to alcohol abuse or infection. Cirrhosis is associated with high blood pressure, which is a major cause of poor circulation in the lower extremities.
Lifestyle Factors
Being Overweight
Being overweight puts you at risk of developing uncomfortable swelling and fluid retention in the lower body. The excess body mass makes it difficult for blood to circulate throughout the body as efficiently, causing fluid to build up in the ankles, feet, and legs.
Sitting For Long Periods Of Time
For individuals who might be bed-ridden, have desk jobs, or traveling, it is always recommended to try and get up at least once an hour to allow blood flow to circulate properly. When the muscles in the legs are not in use, it is difficult for body fluids to be pumped back up to the heart.
This causes retention of fluid in the legs and swelling on top of the feet. This is why you may have seen people on airplanes wearing compression socks. These types of socks are used to help maintain blood flow and reduce swelling and discomfort.
Prevention
If swelling on the top of the foot, leg, or ankle is caused by lifestyle factors, there are actions that can be taken to help prevent this uncomfortable condition.
Regular Exercise
Incorporating regular exercise is an important factor in maintaining proper circulation in the body. According to The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, engaging in a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity per week greatly reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular-related diseases.
Reduce Salt Intake
The American Heart Association recommends an intake of no more than 2,300 milligrams a day of sodium. But, unfortunately, the CDC reports that 90% of Americans consume way more than this threshold. The reduction of salt intake in the diet will lessen your risk of developing complications leading to fluid retention.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Consuming a diet that consists of anti-inflammatory foods may help minimize swelling and aid the body in reducing inflammation. Some examples of anti-inflammatory foods include nuts and seeds, dark leafy greens, fruit, lean protein, fatty fish, and olive oil.
Avoid Sitting For Long Periods Of Time
If you find yourself in a situation where you are sitting for over an hour at a time, make sure to periodically stand up, stretch, and walk around. This will help reduce the risk of developing fluid build-up in the feet. If you are someone who is at increased risk of developing edema, such as those who have kidney disease or diabetes, you may want to speak with your practitioner about the use of compression socks when traveling.
Solutions
For those who may already be struggling with chronic or frequent edema and swelling on top of the foot, there are remedies available. There are a few treatments you can try at home, as well as natural supplements that can aid in the reduction of fluid buildup.
At-Home Remedies
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes or pants.
- Elevate the legs when lying down. Placing your legs on top of a pillow is a good way to keep the legs elevated while lying down. Keeping the legs elevated ensures that they are raised above the heart and will help relieve swelling.
- Avoid sitting for prolonged periods. Always make sure to stand up and walk around whenever possible.
Diuretics
Sometimes, fluid retention and swelling on top of the foot cause so much discomfort that regular activities of daily living may be interrupted. Fortunately, there are some herbs and minerals that are helpful in excreting excess water from the body. Some of these natural substances include green tea leaf, bromelain, hydrangea root, parsley, juniper berry, and ginger, just to name a few.
Natural diuretics may help to relieve fluid retention and provide relief to those who struggle with edema. One of the most powerful and scientifically-backed natural supplements, Swell No More, is the perfect example of a natural diuretic supplement that contains an optimal blend of anti-inflammatory and diuretic ingredients. Swell No More is the best natural diuretic and is safe and effective product that has been trusted by doctors since 2011.
The addition of a natural diuretic may be the answer for those who constantly struggle with stubborn swelling of the feet and legs. Always make sure to consult with your practitioner before starting any new supplement, especially those who are pregnant, nursing, or taking blood pressure medications.
Written by: Jordana Tobelem RD, LDN
References
American Heart Association. “How Much Sodium Should I Eat per Day?” Www.heart.org, https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sodium/how-much-sodium-should-i-eat-per-day.
“Edema: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment.” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/12564-edema.
Raymond, Janice L., et al. Krause and Mahan’s Food & the Nutrition Care Process. Elsevier, 2021.
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Top of Foot Swollen: Causes and Treatments
If you have ever woken up to find that the top of your foot is swollen, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Several things can cause this condition, and thankfully, there are just as many ways to treat it. Read on to learn more about the top of foot swelling and what you can do about it. This article is a part of our foot pain series that should work as a complete resource for everything about foot conditions. If you’re interested in reading more about foot pain, you can find the article here.
What to do if the top of the foot is swollen
The first step in dealing with a swollen top of the foot is to figure out the cause. If you can identify the source of the problem, you will be able to better treat the swelling. However, if you cannot pinpoint the cause, there are still some things that you can do to ease the discomfort. If your top of foot swelling is the result of an injury, you should ice the area for 20 minutes at a time. You can also take over-the-counter pain medication to help with any discomfort. If the swelling does not improve after a few days, or if it gets worse, you should see a doctor. It is also important to rest your foot as much as possible when the top of it is swollen. This means staying off of it as much as you can and keeping it elevated above your heart. You may also want to wear loose-fitting shoes to avoid putting pressure on the swollen area. If your top of foot swelling is due to edema, there are a few things that you can do to help reduce the swelling. First, try wearing compression socks or stockings. These garments help to reduce the amount of fluid that builds up in your foot. You should also avoid standing for long periods and, instead, take breaks to elevate your foot. If the top of your foot is swollen because of an infection, you will need to see a doctor right away. The doctor will prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection. In the meantime, you can take over-the-counter pain medication and use ice to help with any discomfort.
There are a few different things that can cause the top of the foot to swell. However, with some rest and home treatment, the swelling should go down within a few days. If the swelling does not improve or gets worse, you should see a doctor.
Causes of top of foot swelling
Many different things can cause the top of the foot to swell. Some of the more common causes include: –Injury: If you injure your foot, it can cause the top of it to swell. This is especially true if you break a bone in your foot or ankle. –Edema: Edema is a condition that causes fluid to build up in your body. This can lead to swelling in your feet and ankles. –Infection: An infection in your foot can cause the top of it to swell. This is usually the result of an ingrown toenail or athlete’s foot. –Vein problems: If you have vein problems, such as varicose veins, they can cause the top of your foot to swell. –Overuse: If you overuse your foot, it can lead to swelling. This is often the case with athletes or people who stand for long periods of time. –Poor footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels can cause the top of your foot to swell.
When to see a doctor about the top of foot swelling
If the top of your foot is swollen and you cannot identify the cause, you should see a doctor. This is especially true if the swelling does not go down after a few days or if it gets worse. A doctor can help to determine the cause of the top of foot swelling and prescribe the appropriate treatment. In some cases, further testing, such as an MRI or X-ray, may be necessary.
DIagnosis when the top of the foot is swollen
If you are experiencing top of foot swelling, there are a few things that your doctor will do to diagnose the problem. First, they will take a medical history and ask about any injuries or illnesses that you have had. They will also ask about your symptoms and when they started. Next, your doctor will do a physical examination of your foot. They will look for any signs of injury, infection, or vein problems. They may also order X-rays or other imaging tests to rule out other causes of the swelling.
How to treat top of foot swelling
Once your doctor has diagnosed the cause of your top of foot swelling, they will develop a treatment plan. If the swelling is due to an injury, you may need to ice the area and take pain medication. You may also need to wear a splint or cast to immobilize the foot. If the top of your foot is swollen because of edema, your doctor may recommend wearing compression socks or stockings. They may also suggest that you elevate your foot when possible and avoid standing for long periods of time. If an infection is causing the top of your foot to swell, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection. In the meantime, you can take over-the-counter pain medication and use ice to help with any discomfort. If vein problems are causing the top of your foot to swell, your doctor may recommend wearing compression socks or stockings. They may also suggest that you elevate your foot when possible and avoid standing for long periods. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the problem.
Prevention of top of foot swelling
There are a few things that you can do to prevent top of foot swelling. First, make sure to wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels. If you are going to be standing for long hours, take breaks and elevate your feet. You should also avoid crossing your legs when sitting down. Finally, if you have edema, make sure to wear compression socks or stockings as directed by your doctor. The wrong footwear is by far the number one reason for top of foot swelling. And at the same time, this is the easiest thing you can fix on your own. Try more shoe models at a local shop or mall and find a brand, model or type of shoe that fits like a glove without causing any pressure or discomfort. Heel cushions, insoles and orthotics, gel inserts or other support devices can also be placed inside the shoes to offload any pressure from the top of the foot. In case you have diabetes or any other medical condition that puts you at risk for top-of-foot wounds, inspect your feet every day and see a doctor at the first sign of redness, swelling or pain in the top of the foot area. If you are overweight, shedding some pounds may also take the pressure off your feet and help with top of foot swelling. In most cases, top-of-foot swelling is not a serious condition and can be easily treated at home. However, if the swelling does not go down after a few days or gets worse, you should see a doctor. A doctor can determine the cause of the top of foot swelling and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
Wearing shoes that prevent top of foot swelling
There are a few things to look for when choosing shoes to prevent top of foot swelling. First, make sure that the shoes fit well. They should not be too tight or too loose. Second, the shoes should have a low heel and good arch support. Third, the shoes should be made of breathable materials. Finally, avoid wearing shoes with high heels or pointed toes.
A good starting point are sports shoes / running shoes that offer some arch support. You can also try shoes with a wide toe box to give your toes room to move. Try different brands and models and make sure to walk around in the store. If you visit a store specializing on running shoes, you might be able to get a walk/run analysis and can try some pairs out on a treadmill or device that scientifically measures your feet to find the right shoe for your feet. Custom-made shoes are an option for people with top-of-foot swelling caused by conditions like diabetes, arthritis or Charcot’s foot. These shoes are designed to fit the specific needs of your feet and can help prevent top-of-foot swelling.
Key Takeaways
– Top of foot swelling is often caused by poor footwear choices, edema, infection, or vein problems. – If you have top of foot swelling, make sure to see a doctor so they can determine the cause and prescribe the appropriate treatment. – You can prevent top of foot swelling by wearing comfortable, supportive shoes and taking breaks if you are going to be standing for long periods of time. – If you have diabetes or any other medical condition that puts you at risk for top-of-foot wounds, inspect your feet every day and see a doctor at the first sign of redness, swelling or pain in the top of the foot area. – In most cases, top-of-foot swelling is not a serious condition and can be easily treated at home. However, if the swelling does not go down after a few days or gets worse, you should see a doctor. – Custom-made shoes are an option for people with top-of-foot swelling caused by conditions like diabetes, arthritis or Charcot’s foot. These shoes are designed to fit the specific needs of your feet and can help prevent top-of-foot swelling. Thank you for taking the time to read this article on top of foot swelling. We hope that you have found it informative and helpful. If you have any experiences or opinions to share, please leave a review below and join the discussion. Thanks again for reading!
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