Not what you're looking for? CLICK HERE INSTEAD
The response to the question below was authored by Marc Mitnick DPM
swollen ankles and feet from job
by Holly
Hi, I recently started working after being on unemployment for a year. My new job is in a warehouse and it requires me to walk on concrete floors for up to 8.5 hr/day. For the first two weeks, I wore a pair of old tennis shoes and my feet hurt so bad that I could barely walk by the end of the day. My ankles became very swollen as well. I finally was able to buy a pair of very good running shoes and my feet no longer hurt. However, my ankles and feet are still very swollen. When I get out of bed in the morning the first few steps are so painful. After a couple of hours at work, the pain recedes a little, but by the end of my shift my ankles are hurting again. My mother gave me a water pill, and after a few hours the swelling was gone and for the first time in a month (since I started this job) my ankles do not hurt. I know the job has something to do with the swelling, but why? And what can I do about it? My mom wants me to get my heart checked out. I don't cough at all. I get a little short of breath, but I think it's because I am overweight. I had borderline-high blood pressure over the last year, but I quit smoking cigarettes and my blood pressure has been back to normal (average of 105/70) for the last couple of months. I am a 42 year old female. Always been healthy but gained A LOT of weight with pregnancy 7 yrs ago and have never lost it. Why the sudden fluid retention in my ankles and feet? I thought I'd lose weight from the warehouse job- my arms
RESPONSE
Hi,
Because the swelling in the feet and ankles began once you started working this new warehouse job you would have to assume there is a connection.
Swelling could be present if your feet and legs were still hurting, but you mention there is no more pain, so I doubt there is a cause and effect as far as that goes.
I do not know where you live but it is summer in North America so my first question is whether or not it is hot in the warehouse. Increased heat with a lot of walking, particularly in someone who is overweight could certainly lead to swelling in the feet and legs.
This type of swelling would be due primarily to poor venous return, meaning between the heat and humidity and the fact that you are overweight, your veins that bring blood back up to the heart, are not functioning properly.
If this is indeed the case, you will probably notice that your feet and ankles are not swollen first thing in the morning, only to worsen the more you are on your feet as the day progresses.
Diuretics, or water pills will certainly help but I urge you to take them under the care of your doctor as taking them improperly could lead to heart and kidney problems, so you would only be making your situation worse.
The scenario that I presented seems the most obvious cause, but it is certainly not the only potential cause of your swelling.
The best advice I could give you would be to see your doctor for a thorough evaluation and a proper diagnosis.
Marc Mitnick DPM
DISCLAIMER
ADDITIONAL REFERENCES
University of Rochester Medical Center
American Academy of Pediatrics
Columbia University Department of Rehabilitation
Recent Articles
-
Vitamin D impact on health
Feb 06, 23 07:17 PM
Researchers are suggesting that the effectiveness of Vitamin D in fighting and preventing disease is predicated on a persons body mass index (BMI). The thinner the person the greater the positive impa… -
Foods to speed up healing
Feb 01, 23 02:41 PM
One of the best ways to help yourself heal faster after surgery is to eat well. Getting the proper nutrition will provide your body with the essentials it needs to promote healing. Here is a suggestio… -
Cancer and Type 2 Diabetes
Jan 25, 23 04:52 PM
An article revealing that older type 2 diabetics have a higher incidence of cancer then non-diabetics. It is suggested that cancer may surpass CVD as the number one cause of death in older diabetics. -
Does glucosamine or MSM reduce arthritis pain?
Jan 22, 23 01:41 PM
A good review of the possible benefits to taking glucosamine, chondroitin or MSM for arthritis. Always beware of the possible side effects of over the counter supplements. -
shin splints
Jan 18, 23 05:12 PM
A great review on the various causes of shin splints, along with treatment options. -
Whats new in skin cancer?
Jan 15, 23 08:32 PM
A presentation of newer skin protection combinations in an effort to better protect the skin from the hazards of sun exposure. -
Causes and risk factors of warts
Jan 14, 23 05:02 PM
A good review of the causes of warts and protective measures you can take to prevent developing them. -
Do chronic wounds need to be dressed daily?
Jan 11, 23 02:18 PM
Because of supply chain shortages as well as staffing shortages particularly during the pandemic, many institutions extended the time between dressing changes for chronic wounds. Is this really the be… -
Food choices that raise your risk of type 2 diabetes
Jan 08, 23 10:07 AM
A good review of how blood sugars can become elevated and the harm that can do. Certain food groups have a tendency to raise your blood sugars and should be avoided. -
Outcome stats from Scarf bunionectomy
Jan 03, 23 03:04 PM
The Journal of Foot and Ankle Surgery recently reported a meta analysis of outcomes in 1583 Scarf bunionectomies that met their inclusion criteria. Adverse events did not seem to be any better or wors…