It can be very dangerous for you and…, The adductor hallucis is a two-headed muscle that is responsible for flexing and contracting the big toe, and reinforcing the arch of the foot. In the case of kidney damage or disease, the kidneys leave either too much fluid and sodium or not enough protein in the blood, which can lead to accumulation throughout the body—especially in the lower extremities, according to the Mayo Clinic. Treatment depends upon the cause of the liver disease. MedicineNet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. American Pregnancy Association. To reduce the swelling from a foot or ankle injury, rest to avoid walking on the injured ankle or foot, use ice packs, wrap the foot or ankle with compression bandage, and elevate the foot on a stool or pillow. And you might be more at risk if you’re very active or have a history of hypertension or chronic venous insufficiency, says Dr. Petkov. Signs of lymphedema also include a heavy or tight feeling in the arms or legs, not being able to move properly, recurring infections, hardening or thickening of the skin, and trouble sleeping. Some foods make swelling and inflammation worse, but there are plenty of tasty anti-inflammatory foods that can ease these symptoms. Dysfunction of the kidneys and liver, which impact the amount of fluid in the body, can both also contribute to fluid retention that causes swollen ankles. It is due to a buildup of a fluid called lymph. Overweight and obese people may experience swelling around the ankles for two reasons, says Dr. Weinfeld. Ankle bracing and taping should be done under the guidance of a sports medicine physician or a training athletic staff. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Thus, if an ankle or foot is swollen, means it is increased in size. It requires urgent medical treatment. People who experience a DVT should consider: During pregnancy, the body produces more blood and bodily fluids to support the developing fetus. Treatment of kidney pain depends on the cause of the pain. In many situations, the swelling in feet and ankles can be reduced or prevented. Swollen ankles and swollen feet are common and usually not cause for concern, particularly if you have been standing or walking a lot. rhabdomyolysis, Gravity causes fluid to accumulate more in the feet and ankles, but fluid can also accumulate in the abdomen and chest. All rights reserved. Below are listed the causes and those people at risk: Occasionally, specific medical problems will show additional or relatively unique symptoms, for example: Injury or infection of the ankle is usually unilateral, but can be bilateral. Your doctor will also want to check if you have a blood clot and rule out other possible conditions, such as preeclampsia. Heart failure occurs when the heart can no longer pump blood as effectively as it should. This is called reduction. Many individuals can simply position themselves on their backs, elevate their feet and ankles higher than their hearts, and after some time (often a few hours), the swelling may resolve completely. However, fluid retention from gravity isn’t the only cause of a swollen ankle or leg. However, in some instances, foot, ankle, and toes swelling may warn a person that an underlying problem needs immediate medical attention. “High blood pressure tends to be the result of kidney insufficiency,” Dr. Petkov says. What causes high blood pressure (hypertension)? Find detail on mobility and foot health, as well as safety tips to prevent…, Rheumatoid arthritis or RA, can affect the ankle joints in the same way as other joints, causing pain, inflammation, and swelling.