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Oedema & Lymphoedema Uncovered
Such pain can often make it difficult to keep active or engage in other important activities, even working, and can become part of a vicious cycle. We take a quick look at these conditions and suggest some ways to not let them win.
Disclaimer: This information is of a general nature and should not be taken as a diagnosis. All questions and concerns should be directed to your Doctor, Podiatrist or other health advisor.
Oedema
Oedema can be a symptom of a wider problem, rather than a condition in itself and can be caused by a variety of day-to-day things - like standing or sitting in the same position for too long - or it can be a symptom of more serious lifestyle problem, like being overweight, eating too much salty food or can be brought on by certain medicines such as some contraceptives, anti-depressants or steroids. [1]
Oedema is also commonplace amongst pregnant women, who often report swollen ankles, feet and fingers during their pregnancy.
Lymphoedema
There are 2 main types of Lymphoedema - primary & secondary - with secondary lymphoedema being much more common. Whilst the effects are broadly similar, the difference lies in the cause:
Primary lymphoedema, which is considered rare, affects an estimated 1 in every 6,000 people and is caused by faulty genes that affect the development of the lymphatic system; it can develop at any age, but usually starts during infancy, adolescence, or early adulthood.[1]
Secondary lymphoedema is a condition affecting an estimated 200,000[1] people in the UK (or 1 in 300, to put it in context).
It is caused by damage to the lymphatic system or problems with the movement and drainage of fluid in the lymphatic system and can often be the result of a cancer treatment, an infection, injury, inflammation of the limb, or a lack of limb movement.
What can be done?
Well, firstly, if you have or suspect you have either of these conditions then you should consult your GP for advice.
They may suggest some self-treatment, such as gentle exercise to keep the limbs moving and circulation flowing, and try to release some fluid from the area, gentle massage and the raising of your feet to allow gravity to help drain fluid away; or a formal programme of treatment such as CDT may be suggested.
Further advice can be sought from the wonderful Lymphoedema Support Network.
For longer term sufferers of swollen legs, ankles and feet though, fear not, we receive many messages from oedema and lymphoedema suffers that our shoes have been able to provide a new lease of life!
How do our shoes help?
It is better to wear a shoe which gently covers the foot, offering an even compression over the top of the foot, therefore preventing swelling down into the foot.
You may not believe that you can even find footwear you're comfortable in any longer, let alone anything stylish! But that's not the case. Here are some of the features specifically designed for wide and swollen feet that may help!
Extra Wide & Deep Footwear
This can provide your feet with much needed space without compressing the foot and causing further swelling around the shoe entry point. Low cut court shoes, for instance, are not recommended for oedema sufferers, as swelling will occur at the top of the foot above the shoe opening. However, court shoes with elasticated toplines could provide the option for a dressed-up look without the associated issues.
We have styles in our widest fittings across all categories, casual and smart alike. For instance, you’ll find trainers like Whitworth, Fox, Riley (pictured) or Shade, loafers, house shoes, casual, sporty or walking boots, like Reef (pictured), Santa, Bayeux, Nebraska, fashion boots and even dress shoes, like Constance (pictured).
If you have extra wide feet, then there are a few styles that we have designed specifically for you, including features like extended cut-to-fit straps and extra-wide opening for easy access. Style include new styles Serena and Riley, alongside men’s Darren and more.
Wide-fitting Stretch Shoes
Everyday shoe Whitworth and Winnipeg have stretch panels on the outer and instep, making them ideal for bunions, alongside cut-to-fit adjustable straps.
We even include stretch panels on many of our Da Bella dress shoe styles, like Badminton, Constance or Winton, allowing you to get dressed up in style without discomfort.
- View our women's wide-fitting stretch shoes here
- View our men's wide-fitting stretch shoes here
Variable Width Fittings
- Find out more about our width fittings
- View our 2V width fitting women's footwear
- View our 6V width fitting women's footwear
- View our 2V width fitting men's footwear
- View our 6V width fitting men's footwear
Easy Access Footwear
In addition to those mentioned earlier, our range featuring front opening designs further includes Stoke, Unite, Rory, Biarritz, Fieldfare, Redstart, Keeston, and many more. Even fashion boot Winton has a double zip to allow front opening.
VAT Free Footwear
- View our full range of women's wide and deep fitting footwear
- View our full range of men's wide and deep fitting footwear
Disclaimer: This information is of a general nature and should not be taken as a diagnosis. All questions and concerns should be directed to your Doctor, Podiatrist or other health advisor.
Whilst we may be able to help with suitable footwear we know that the care of your feet is important to your health. Why not check out our Foot Health Partner page to locate someone who may be able to help you!
Citations
[1] https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lymphoedema/
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