December 2024

Swollen feet can be an uncomfortable issue, often caused by injuries or edema. Edema refers to the accumulation of fluid in the tissues, leading to swelling. People who are more likely to experience swollen feet include those with recent injuries, such as sprains or fractures, which can cause localized swelling. Edema can also result from conditions like pregnancy, heart disease, kidney disease, or prolonged standing or sitting. The causes of swollen feet vary, but other contributing factors include poor circulation, high salt intake, or side effects from medications. In some cases, swelling may be a sign of a more serious underlying issue, such as blood clots, infections, or vascular problems. While mild swelling may improve with rest, elevating the feet, or wearing compression socks, persistent or severe foot or ankle swelling should be evaluated by a podiatrist. This type of doctor can help diagnose the cause of the swelling and recommend appropriate treatments. If you are experiencing swollen feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma, also known as midfoot pain syndrome, is a condition that causes pain in the ball of the foot, usually between the third and fourth toes. It occurs when the tissue surrounding a nerve thickens, leading to irritation or compression. The exact cause of Morton's neuroma is not always clear, but it can result from factors such as wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes, especially those with a narrow toe box or high heels, which put pressure on the toes. Activities that involve repetitive stress or impact, such as running or jumping, can also contribute to the development of the condition. Symptoms include a sharp, burning pain, tingling, or a sensation of something being stuck inside the shoe. The discomfort often worsens with prolonged walking or standing. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment that is right for you.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar heel pain is a common condition characterized by sharp pain in the bottom of the heel, often felt in the morning or after long periods of rest. This pain is typically caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Overuse, tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and excessive weight can contribute to this condition. Repeated strain on the plantar fascia causes small tears, leading to pain and discomfort. Effective exercises for plantar heel pain include stretching the calf muscles, rolling a frozen water bottle under the foot to reduce inflammation, and performing toe stretches. Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle, such as towel scrunches and resistance band exercises, can also improve flexibility and support. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, or TTS, is a painful condition where the tibial nerve, located near the ankle, becomes compressed within the tarsal tunnel. People with rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, are more prone to TTS due to joint inflammation and swelling that increase pressure on surrounding nerves. This nerve compression can lead to symptoms like tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain radiating from the ankle into the foot, worsening with prolonged standing or walking. Those with RA are at higher risk because chronic inflammation can alter joint structure and create nerve impingement. People with foot deformities or those who overuse their feet are also at risk. Managing TTS often involves rest, anti-inflammatory treatments, or targeted exercises. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, recommend braces, custom orthotics, or even surgery, ensuring a treatment plan that aligns with each patient’s needs. If you have pain in this part of your ankle, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

For restaurant workers, wearing the right footwear is essential for both comfort and safety. Long hours spent on hard, slippery floors can put significant strain on the feet, legs, and lower back. Proper footwear helps to cushion the feet, reduce fatigue, and prevent injuries such as sprains, strains, and blisters. Shoes with good arch support, non-slip soles, and a proper fit can improve posture and alignment, reducing the risk of developing chronic pain or foot conditions. Additionally, slip-resistant shoes help prevent accidents in environments where spills and wet floors are common. Over time, wearing inadequate footwear can lead to more serious problems such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or even stress fractures. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury during your workday, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on appropriate footwear choices.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle & Foot Care Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Jupiter, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.