Pedal edema is characterized by an abnormal buildup of fluid in the ankles, feet, and lower legs, resulting in foot and ankle swelling. Foot edema can be caused by two different causes. Venous edema is caused by increased capillary permeability, which allows fluid from the venous system to flow into the interstitial space. Lymphatic edema is produced by a malfunction or restriction of the lymphatic outflow from the legs. As a result, fluid accumulates in the ankles. These fluid buildup processes can happen simultaneously or separately. Lymphatic edema can be caused by venous edema.
Causes of Pedal Edema
A variety of conditions can contribute to pedal edema. The following are the most typical causes:
- Prolonged standing or sitting can cause fluid to accumulate in the feet and ankles. While the legs are stationary, the veins in the legs must work harder to return blood to the heart.
- A foot or ankle injury might result in pedal edema. This is due to the body's normal response to damage, which is to send extra fluid to the injured region in order to facilitate recovery.
- Pedal edema can be caused by heart, kidney, or liver illness. This is due to the fact that these disorders might impair the body's capacity to manage fluid levels.
- Pedal edema is common in pregnant women owing to hormonal changes and increased strain on the blood vessels in the legs.
Symptoms of Pedal Edema
Pedal edema symptoms might vary depending on the severity of the ailment. Mild instances may only produce modest swelling, but severe cases might cause serious discomfort. Among the most prevalent signs of pedal edema are:
- Swelling
The most frequent sign of pedal edema is swelling in the feet and ankles.
- Pain
Pedal edema can produce pain and discomfort, particularly while walking or standing for an extended amount of time.
- Skin Changes
The afflicted area's skin may appear stretched, glossy, or discolored.
- Decreased Range of Motion
Pedal edema can make moving the afflicted region harder.
Treatment of Pedal Edema
The treatment for pedal edema is determined on the underlying cause. In mild situations, self-care practices may be sufficient to relieve symptoms. These are some examples:
- Elevating the Feet:
Raising the feet above the heart might aid in the reduction of edema.
- Compression Stockings:
Using compression stockings can assist improve circulation and minimize edema.
- Exercise:
Frequent exercise might assist to improve circulation and reduce fluid accumulation in the feet and ankles.
- Weight Management:
Keeping a healthy weight can assist to lessen the strain on the veins in the legs and prevent pedal edema.
Medical intervention may be required in more severe situations.
- Diuretics are drugs that assist reduce fluid accumulation in the body.
- Medications including blood thinners and corticosteroids can help alleviate pedal edema.
- In rare circumstances, surgery to address the underlying cause of pedal edema, such as varicose veins, may be required.
Prevention of Pedal Edema
Several self-care measures can aid in the reduction or prevention of edema.
These include:
- reducing salt intake,
- losing weight, if necessary,
- getting regular exercise,
- raising the legs when possible to improve circulation,
- wearing supporting stockings,
- not sitting or standing still for too long,
- getting up and walking around frequently when traveling,
- avoiding extremes of temperature, such as hot baths, showers, and saunas.
How can DrLuigi medical footwear help You?
DrLuigi medical footwear is produced almost entirely out of completely natural materials such as cotton and leather, while the insole is usually manufactured out of polyurethane. The production is set in accordance with the most rigorous ecological standards mandated by the European Union and thus our company has obtained the highest certificates for quality, management and design.
Even though it is recommended for the general population, our footwear is exclusively distributed via pharmacies, drug stores and orthopaedic supply stores and is especially created for individuals that experience problems with:
- Diabetes
- Obesity
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- Insufficiency of peripheral circulation
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- Arthrosis