Why The Feet May Become Swollen
There are several reasons why swollen feet can occur. Many people who have sustained a foot injury can have swollen feet and this may be part of the healing process. When fluid is trapped in the body’s tissues it is known as edema. This can affect the feet and the skin may stretch or appear shiny. A limited range of motion in the ankles can also occur. Mild relief may come from frequently elevating the feet and reducing salt intake. Many pregnant women experience swollen feet, and this can be a result of the added weight the body endures due to the fetus and additional fluids. Swollen feet may be common among people who are overweight and lead a sedentary lifestyle. It is beneficial to implement a gentle exercise routine as well as wear shoes that fit well as this can help to alleviate swollen feet. If you have this condition, please confer with a podiatrist who can determine the cause of your swollen feet and provide remedies to help you.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Fusion Foot and Ankle. 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 offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Swelling of the Feet
There are many reasons why patients experience swelling of the feet. It is rather common and may be a side effect of pregnancy or from sitting and standing for most of the day. Gravity could also play a role in the development of swollen feet. It is known that the weight of blood volume in our bodies is exerted on the veins in the legs and feet. The veins may not work as efficiently during the aging process, and this could make the blood flow backward causing swollen feet. Relief may be found when obese patients lose weight, and it may help to engage in compression therapy by wearing compression socks, stockings, or athletic sleeves. This method can release pressure on the feet and ankles which may help to reduce existing swelling. There are patients who have controlled their swollen feet by implementing healthy lifestyle changes. These can consist of reducing salt intake, incorporating a gentle exercise regime into the daily routine, and drinking plenty of fresh water. Swollen feet may be a temporary condition that affects people who travel via airplane or automobile, so it is beneficial to walk as frequently as possible even though it can be difficult. Swelling of the feet can also be indicative of other health issues so it is important to pay attention to any type of chest pain, mental confusion, dizziness, or fever. If you consistently have swollen feet, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help determine the cause and how to effectively treat it.
Gout Pain Can Be Managed
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
What to Do About Blood Blisters
Blisters on the feet are the result of repeated friction between the skin and a harder surface, usually the inside of a shoe. When friction continues, the body goes into action to protect itself by forming a fluid-filled blister. If the action that caused the blister continues, however, blood vessels may be ruptured resulting in a blood blister. Causes of blood blisters include demanding activities like dancing, hiking, and running. One way to avoid the formation of blood blisters is to wear shoes that fit properly and provide adequate cushioning. It also may help to wear moisture-wicking socks to minimize friction. Placing an ice pack on the affected area can help to ease the pain and any swelling or inflammation. Soaking the injured area in Epsom salt, which contains magnesium sulfate, is also beneficial and can further promote healing. However, if the blood blister is too painful or becomes infected, it may be time to visit a podiatrist for further treatment solutions.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Blisters on the Feet
Blisters are a common ailment of people who wear shoes that are either too tight or rub against the feet in an uncomfortable way. Knowing the basics of blisters is important for understanding how they are formed and what treatments should be used for them.
A blister on the foot, or any other part of the body, is a small pocket that is filled with fluid. It usually forms on the upper layer of the skin because these layers are loose enough to allow a blister to form. The most common fluid in a blister is just a clear, watery-like fluid that usually isn’t cause for concern. However, blisters can fill up with blood if they are deep enough and pus if they have become infected with bacteria.
Blisters almost always form on the feet due to shoes rubbing up against the foot, where the friction causes blisters. These can occur after you have walked for a long period of time or when your shoes do not fit you properly. Your feet are also more prone to blisters if they are moist, so keeping them dry and clean is one preventative step you can take.
Preventing infection should be the number one concern when treating blisters, as well as relieving the pain they can cause. Using a bandage to cover up the blister will help it heal and prevent bacteria from entering it. New skin will form under the blister and eventually cause it to pop. You can also take a sterilized pin and try to pop it yourself.
If the blister is filled with pus or blood, seeking treatment from a doctor is ideal. Antibiotics may need to be taken in order to completely eliminate the bacteria inside the blister. See a doctor to have an antibiotic prescribed.
The best way to treat blisters is to prevent them all together. Keeping your feet dry and making sure that your shoes fit properly are just two of the steps you can take to prevent blisters. Shoes that are too tight or shoes that are too loose and allow your feet to slide in them will cause blisters. Applying a bandage to an area where you think a blister is about to form is another way you can prevent them.
Reasons Why Plantar Fasciitis May Develop
The foot condition known as plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. This is the band of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. It also creates the arch in the foot. One of the first symptoms of plantar fasciitis is heel pain and it may be worse upon arising in the morning. It can develop as a result of repetitive stress that is common among runners, or it may happen from overstretching. People who have flat feet or high arches may be prone to developing this condition, in addition to being obese or pregnant. It may also happen from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. The symptoms that many people have can consist of severe pain, swelling, and redness in the heel area, and it may be difficult to walk. If the condition is mild, relief may be found when specific stretches are performed. Additionally, custom-made orthotics may be worn so daily activities can be completed with little or no pain. For severe cases, surgery may be necessary for permanent relief. If you have heel pain, it is advised that you seek counsel from a podiatrist who can properly diagnose plantar fasciitis and offer you the correct treatment options.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. When this band of connective tissue becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis occurs. Fortunately, this condition is treatable.
There are several factors that may put you at a greater risk for developing plantar fasciitis. One of the biggest factors is age; plantar fasciitis is common in those between the ages of 40 to 60. People who have jobs that require them to be on their feet are also likely to develop plantar fasciitis. This includes factory workers, teachers, and others who spend a large portion of their day walking around on hard surfaces. Another risk factor is obesity because excess weight can result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
People with plantar fasciitis often experience a stabbing pain in the heel area. This pain is usually at its worst in the morning, but can also be triggered by periods of standing or sitting. Plantar fasciitis may make it hard to run and walk. It may also make the foot feel stiff and sensitive, which consequently makes walking barefoot difficult.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis depends on the severity of the specific case of the condition. Ice massage applications may be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy is often used to treat plantar fasciitis, and this may include stretching exercises. Another treatment option is anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen.
If you suspect that you have plantar fasciitis, meet with your podiatrist immediately. If left untreated, symptoms may lead to tearing and overstretching of the plantar fascia. The solution is early detection and treatment. Be sure to speak with your podiatrist if you are experiencing heel pain.
Obesity and Ankle Sprains
Individuals who struggle with obesity are sometimes more susceptible to experiencing problematic foot conditions. For example, some obese individuals are more likely to develop flat feet because their higher body weight makes them exert more pressure on their feet when standing. Therefore, if you suffer from obesity, it might be a good idea to take extra care of the health of your feet. Obese individuals ought to be particularly mindful of ankle sprains because not only does obesity increase your risk of spraining the ankle, it also might make recovery from such an injury more difficult and prolonged. Ankle sprains occur when the foot turns awkwardly and tears or strains the ligaments surrounding the ankle. Obesity also heightens your risk of developing a sprained ankle because the extra body weight increases your instability and reduces balance control, among other things. When recovering from an ankle sprain, obese individuals are also particularly vulnerable. The joints affected by an ankle sprain may take a longer time to heal post-injury in obese individuals because of the detrimental effects obesity has on ankle joint function. Therefore, if you are obese and are trying to recover from an ankle sprain, you might need extra help in managing your symptoms to heal the injury. Contact a podiatrist for any questions you might have about how obesity affects ankle sprains.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How Obesity Affects Your Feet
Gaining weight can happen suddenly and at any time. Usually you won’t notice the extra weight until your feet start hurting at the end of the day. This happens as your feet begin adjusting to carrying more weight. Foot swelling and pain are two of the biggest side effects of having gained weight.
Many foot-related problems can occur even after just putting on a few pounds. This includes the body ‘compensating’ by changing the way it moves. You may find yourself putting extra weight on the wrong parts of your feet and even leaning forward a bit. Your feet were designed to carry a healthy, normal body weight. Extra weight places undue stress on them.
Being overweight often causes the development of Type-2 diabetes, causing leg and foot pain. Older people who do not attempt to control their condition can even lose sensation and feeling in their legs and feet. This can lead to the development of small sores that can lead to serious infection.
Extra stress placed on the joints, tendons and muscles in the feet as a result of extra body weight may also cause heel spurs, or plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the foot tissue, causing stiffness and pain when walking and climbing stairs. This can usually be relieved by foot stretches and custom made orthotic shoe-inserts.
Problems in the feet triggered by obesity can be treated by paying special attention to footwear. Proper support shoes that allow for good circulation, especially in the arch and ankle, are vital. A podiatrist can help you find what sort of shoe is most suitable for your feet. They can also measure you for special orthotics if necessary.
It could also be high time to start losing weight in order to treat and prevent diabetes as well as other life threatening diseases. Some methods include yoga and water aerobics, which benefit your entire body without placing stress on your feet. Don’t risk losing your feet by losing interest in them. Take care of your feet and your body, as they deserve the very best.
Foot Care Concerns for Trail Runners
Most runners have some form of foot pain at some point. Complaints range from blisters to plantar fasciitis, and even stress fractures. Taking care of the feet is sometimes overlooked by runners who concentrate more on other body parts. For trail runners who traverse uneven, wet, or slippery terrain, attention to foot health can be paramount. First and foremost for any runner is proper footwear. Be sure to find shoes that are made specifically for natural terrain and fit well. Socks can be just as important as shoes. Look for socks that wick moisture and prevent blisters. Try to keep your feet dry, if at all possible. Some runners tend the calluses on the sole of the feet with a pumice, but it’s a good idea to see a podiatrist if they cause pain or gait problems. Orthotics may be a solution to avoiding them. Other ways that trail runners can care for their feet are to keep toenails carefully trimmed, give your feet a massage, and pamper them after a run. If you experience foot pain or problems caused by running, please visit a podiatrist for more information.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Fusion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Worth and Arlington, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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