Intermittent Foot Pain and Swelling in Seniors

Recently, my father has been experiencing intermittent redness, swelling, and pain in the soles of his feet?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my father's recent condition.
He has been experiencing intermittent redness and swelling on the soles of his feet, which only hurts when he walks.
The red and swollen spots recover in one or two days and then appear in other areas, but they are always localized to the soles of his feet, with no other parts of the body showing any abnormalities.
What could be the cause of this?

Yingling, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/18

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, it is recommended that you accompany your father to the orthopedic outpatient clinic for a medical evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment based on the situation.
Please note: online consultations are not equivalent to in-person visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2018/06/18

More Info

Intermittent foot pain and swelling in seniors can be a complex issue, often stemming from various underlying conditions. Given your father's symptoms of localized redness and swelling on the foot's sole that occurs primarily during walking, it is essential to consider several potential causes.

One possibility is plantar fasciitis, a common condition in older adults characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. This condition often presents with heel pain and can cause discomfort in the arch of the foot, particularly after periods of inactivity or upon first standing up in the morning. The pain typically worsens with activity and may lead to localized swelling.

Another potential cause could be metatarsalgia, which refers to pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. This condition can arise from various factors, including improper footwear, excessive weight-bearing activities, or conditions like arthritis. The intermittent nature of your father's symptoms, with swelling appearing in different areas, could suggest that certain activities or movements exacerbate the condition.

Gout is another consideration, especially in older adults. This form of inflammatory arthritis is characterized by sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling, often affecting the big toe but can also impact other joints. Gout attacks can be intermittent, with periods of intense pain followed by remission.

Additionally, peripheral vascular disease (PVD) could be a factor, particularly if your father has a history of cardiovascular issues. PVD can lead to reduced blood flow to the extremities, resulting in pain and swelling, especially during physical activity.

Given that the redness and swelling are localized and resolve within a couple of days, it may also be indicative of localized infections or skin conditions, such as cellulitis or dermatitis, which can cause similar symptoms.
To address these symptoms effectively, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional who can perform a thorough examination and possibly recommend imaging studies or laboratory tests. This will help in determining the exact cause of the symptoms.
In the meantime, here are some general recommendations for managing foot pain and swelling:
1. Rest and Elevation: Encourage your father to rest his feet and elevate them when sitting or lying down to reduce swelling.

2. Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected areas for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help alleviate swelling and pain.

3. Proper Footwear: Ensure that he wears supportive shoes that fit well and provide adequate cushioning. Avoiding high heels or shoes with inadequate support is essential.

4. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises to strengthen the foot and improve flexibility, which may help alleviate pain.

5. Medication: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation, but these should be used under the guidance of a physician, especially in older adults.

6. Weight Management: If applicable, maintaining a healthy weight can reduce stress on the feet and lower extremities.

7. Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to a healthcare provider can help monitor any chronic conditions and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

In conclusion, while intermittent foot pain and swelling in seniors can arise from various causes, a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Your father's symptoms warrant attention, and addressing them promptly can help improve his quality of life and mobility.

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