Swollen feet and ankles can be a common condition caused by a variety of factors. While conventional medicine often treats swelling with medications, functional medicine takes a holistic approach to identify and address the underlying causes of this condition. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments of swollen feet and ankles from a functional medicine perspective.

Symptoms of swollen feet and ankles

The symptoms of swollen feet and ankles can include:

• Swelling or puffiness in the feet and ankles.
  
• Tightness or discomfort in the affected area.
  
• Reduced mobility or difficulty moving the affected limb.
  
• Skin discoloration or redness.

Causes of swollen feet and ankles

The causes of swollen feet and ankles can vary from person to person, and can be influenced by a number of factors including genetics, lifestyle, diet, environmental toxins, stress, and hormonal imbalances. Some common triggers include:

• Fluid retention: Fluid retention can be caused by a variety of factors, including heart, liver, or kidney disease, pregnancy, or hormonal imbalances.
  
• Injuries: Injuries such as sprains, fractures, or infections can cause swelling in the feet and ankles.
  
• Poor circulation: Poor circulation can be caused by a variety of factors, including varicose veins, blood clots, and peripheral artery disease.
  
• Nutrient deficiencies: Deficiencies in nutrients such as magnesium and potassium can affect fluid balance and contribute to swelling.
  

Treatments for swollen feet and ankles

Functional medicine approaches to treating swollen feet and ankles involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes of the condition. Some common treatments include:

• Nutritional supplements: Supplements such as magnesium and potassium can help address nutrient deficiencies and support fluid balance.
  
• Lifestyle modifications: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress-reduction techniques such as meditation and yoga can help improve overall health and support fluid balance.
  
• Environmental modifications: Reducing exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants, and using natural cleaning products can help reduce inflammation in the body and support overall health.
  
• Compression therapy: Compression socks or stockings can help improve circulation and reduce swelling.
  
• Medications: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage symptoms or treat underlying medical conditions.
  

Tests for swollen feet & ankles

• Blood sugar
• Food intolerances
• Histamine intolerance
• Hormone tests: Adrenals, Estrogen & progesterone, Men’s hormones, Women’s hormones
• Nutrition tests: Amino acids, Fatty acids, Minerals, Vitamins (A, B3, B5 & Biotin), Vitamins (B12, folate, D, E & Q10), Vitamins (All)

In conclusion, swollen feet and ankles can be caused by a variety of factors, and functional medicine approaches to treatment involve identifying and addressing the underlying causes to provide long-lasting relief from symptoms. By addressing the root causes of swollen feet and ankles, individuals can maintain and improve their overall health and mobility.