Summer Heat & Foot Swelling

It is a beautiful sunny day and you decide to go out for a walk but when you go to put your shoes on, they don’t fit because your feet have swelled in the heat. Is this a familiar situation for you?

The summer heat can be grueling on the whole body but feet often do not fair too well. When your legs and feet swell because of heat, it is called heat edema. Being in the heat often causes you to retain water and your blood vessels to dilate. When standing for longer periods of time, gravity then causes the fluid to pool in your legs and feet. If you are older in age, pregnant or overweight, the risk of swollen feet is higher.

Dr. Tejas Pandya, foot specialist in New York, treats all problems related to feet and ankles. Fortunately, there are some ways to prevent and find relief for swollen feet in the middle of the summer:

•   Staying still will encourage the pooling of fluid in your legs and feet so avoid sitting and standing for long periods of time.

•   Keep your body cool and avoid salt intake as this can increase water retention.

•   Elevate your legs when you can.

•   Exercise will help remove the fluid from your legs and feet.

While swollen feet are common, take note if you have any secondary symptoms such as a fever or if the swelling worsens. You may have something more serious going on. Please contact Dr. Pandya with any questions or concerns about swollen feet. Call us at (518) 273-0053 to make an appointment at our Troy or Clifton Park, NY podiatric office. Visit us online as well www.capitaldistrictpodiatry.com. 

Pregnancy and Feet

Pregnancy could be described using the words of Winnie the Pooh, “A grand adventure is about to begin.” For many pregnant women though, the grand adventure can include some not so fun parts of the journey. One bump along the road is dealing with problems with your feet and ankles.

I am pregnant, what will happen to my feet?

Unfortunately, your feet may not be exempt from the stresses that come along with being pregnant. The natural weight gain during pregnancy can lead to foot, ankle and leg problems. It can make existing problems worse and cause pain and inflammation. While you are pregnant, hormones are released that help loosen ligaments but this can also lead to foot strain.

The last thing you need to be worrying about when pregnant is foot pain, so here are some common problems and what you can do to help each situation:

Flat feet – The hormones that help relax ligaments for birth can also lead to fallen arches. The extra weight adds stress on your arches and your feet may even increase a half or whole size. Wear supportive shoes and try to avoid walking barefoot or standing for long periods of time. Foot specialist, Dr. Tejas Pandya can also provide custom orthotics to give extra support for your feet.

Ankle swelling – Hormonal changes and your body retaining more fluid during pregnancy can lead to swelling of your feet, ankles and legs. Avoid long periods of standing, drink plenty of fluids, wear compression stockings and elevate your legs when you can.

You don’t have to allow foot pain to complicate your pregnancy. Contact our podiatric offices in Troy or Clifton Park, NY for diagnosis and treatment of your foot pain and let Dr. Pandya help you back in your adventure pain free! Call (518) 273-0053 or visit www.capitaldistrictpodiatry.com.

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• After Pregnancy, Women Have Bigger Feet