Severely swollen ankles are usually the result of some kind of water retention or swelling brought on by kidney failure, phlebitis, arthritis or other medical condition. The can also be called edema or the more significantly swollen lymphedema .
The condition is not always painful but there will be stiffness because of the swelling. Proper shoe wear becomes problematic. Many stop wearing shoes altogether because of it, preferring non-supportive sandals and house slippers that are soft. However, sandals and house slippers only seemingly protect their feet and contribute to instability and falling.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Edema
- Ankle sprain without symptoms other than swelling
Symptoms:
- Swollen ankles – there may be pain or may not
Signs to look for:
- Front part of foot is normal width but ankle area is extremely swollen
- Shoes fit in toe box but not at instep and ankle
- Ankle and instep show shoe red pressure marks where the shoe is too tight
Possible Causes:
- Compromised circulation caused by diabetes, kidney failure, congestive heart failure or other medical condition
- Natural progression of age and gravity so blood pools at ankles
- Heredity
- Occurs in those whose leg veins were used in heart bypass surgery
- Water retention
- Phlebitis
- Arthritis
Goals:
- Footwear that accommodates the swollen area and also provides support for the foot
- Stimulate circulation in feet
- Balance need for width at ankle with the length of shoe with shoes that are not too long
- Program for reducing swelling
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotic exercising arch support with metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for use when shoes cannot accommodate the BioOrthotic exercising support
Shoes:
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank
- Smart footwear, such as stable rocker soles if ambulation issues warrant, non-flexibile forefoot shoes, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- Avoid flip-flops. Only wear sandals with a back and only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
- Apex Chukka shoe with wide opening for ankle where extreme swelling causes foot to not fit in a regular extra depth shoe
Other:
- Compression hosiery products (if approved by physician)
- Oversized socks that are non-binding and extra wide at the ankle and calf
Activities:
- Medical treatment as appropriate
- Elevation of feet when possible
- Regular exercise program
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: Riversideonline.com Text: B. Meanwell, CPed, CHFpatients.com