Outdoor Footwear for a Swollen Foot

Feet can become swollen due to trauma (i.e., sprains or bone breaks) or strains. Menstruation, pregnancy or other causes of weight gain can also cause a buildup of fluid in feet, as can a sedentary lifestyle, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The elderly and people with arthritis often suffer from swollen feet as well. Many stores sell shoes that can be adjusted to accommodate swelling but it may be necessary to consult a doctor or foot specialist to get relief.

Basic Shoe Construction

• Know what to look for in any type of shoes you consider buying. Shoes for swollen feet should have a firm heel counter and be wide enough in the toe area to prevent crowding, according to Footsmart.com. They should also have a fairly rigid shank, a long vamp and an inner sole that can be removed, to make room if necessary and permit insertion of an orthotic if necessary. (The vamp is the material that forms the upper part of the shoe, covering the top of the toes and foot. The shank is a piece of metal or fiberglass in the middle of the sole of the shoe that prevents the shoe from bending at that spot.)

  Footsmart.com also recommends a heel height ranging from 3/4 to 1.5 inches. Make sure that there's about a thumb's length of distance between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe.

  In the summer, sturdy sandals with easily adjustable straps may be the way to go.

Flexibility

• Look for shoes that have breathable, stretchable uppers and can expand with the foot. Leather is a good option because it stretches over time, according to shoo company RoomyFit. The Footwear and More company offers shoes with stretchable fabric uppers. Many shoes have Velcro fasteners, rather than laces or buckles, which make it easier to make more room inside the shoe.

When and Where to Buy

• Don't buy shoes in the morning. Many people's feet tend to swell later in the day, so it's advisable to buy shoes in the afternoon or evening, according to Footsmart.com. Look for stores (in person or online) that cater to senior citizens or advertise orthopedic shoes. Some people may find that athletic shoes, such as cross-trainers or running shoes, provide the support and flexibility they need. Avoid wearing sneakers, which don't have a sturdy-enough sole to provide the support you need. And never buy tight shoes, assuming they will stretch.

How to Reduce Swelling

• Elevate your feet when you're not moving, drink plenty of water and walk around as much as possible to prevent fluid retention and increase circulation. Maintaining a healthy weight puts less impact on your feet and helps keep swelling down as much as possible.

When Shoes Don't Help

• Seek expert advice if swelling worsens or it becomes painful to walk in your new shoes. If the swelling increases suddenly, is red or warm to the touch, or consistently fails to improve when you elevate your feet, see a doctor to determine the cause or get relief. If you can't find any shoes that are comfortable, consult a podiatrist for advice; you may require orthotics to alter the way you put your foot down when you walk. This can take the stress off a portion of your foot that may be taking too much impact, which can cause damage to that part of the foot and lead to swelling,