If you notice that your feet and ankles look puffy or swollen, you may have edema, an accumulation of fluids under the skin. It’s particularly common in the lower legs and feet. [Edema](https://www.revitive.com/au/swollen-feet-and-ankles), which may cause pain or discomfort when walking around or standing for long periods, can be caused by a number of factors. Among them are ill-fitting shoes, a sedentary lifestyle, being overweight or heat. Luckily, a number of home remedies can help to alleviate the edema, such as keeping your feet elevated when sitting or lying down; eating healthier foods and reducing salt intake; and losing weight. A few simple exercises include standing up and moving around several times a day if you are sitting for long periods, rotating your ankles and bending your knees to increase circulation, and taking a brisk walk in the morning. If swelling persists or becomes painful, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist at your earliest convenience for a full examination, diagnosis and other treatment options.
Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact [one of our podiatrists](https://www.mcallenfootcenter.com/meet-our-doctors.html) from [Foot Center](https://www.mcallenfootcenter.com/). Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Everyday Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.
It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in [McAllen,](https://www.mcallenfootcenter.com/locations/mcallen-office.html) [and Weslaco, TX](https://www.mcallenfootcenter.com/locations/weslaco-office.html). We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
