Swollen Legs
The arterial blood supply brings oxygenated blood to the extremities. The venous blood supply brings oxygen-depleted blood back toward the lungs and heart to get fresh oxygen before being pumped out again. Because blood is subject to the force of gravity, nature designed our veins with little valves to to keep blood moving. Without the valves in our veins, our blood is pumped through he beings by our muscles contractions every time we move. When we stand still, however, pumping ceases and the capillary pressure increases. This forces fluid to leak into the tissue, causing swollen legs. Movement, even shifting weight from leg to leg, can keep the blood moving.
The components of the foot and leg are designed to work together, sharing the tremendous pressures of day to day living. When they don’t work properly, though it can be trouble for the rest of the body, and its time to get help. The specialized care and treatment a podiatrist provides can make an important contribution to an individuals total health. If foot, ankle, or leg pain are slowing you down, please give us a call.
PS To avoid pressure in dependent extremities from swelling or causing bulging varicose veins, elevate the legs whenever possible.
