Blog

Blog

When Swollen Feet Signal a Bigger Problem

Swollen feet, also known as edema, occur when excess fluid builds up in the tissues of the lower legs and feet. This condition may develop gradually or appear suddenly, causing discomfort, tightness, and a heavy or throbbing sensation. The skin may look shiny, stretched, or discolored, and pressing on the swollen area might leave a noticeable indentation. Common causes include prolonged standing or sitting, injury, and certain medications. Underlying medical conditions, such as vein disease, heart issues, or kidney problems, are other factors. A podiatrist can help determine the cause of swelling through a detailed examination, medical history review, and diagnostic tests. Treatment may include compression therapy, footwear changes, exercises to improve circulation, and lifestyle adjustments. In some cases, additional medical evaluation may be necessary to rule out serious health concerns. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to identify the cause of your swollen feet and find effective relief.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. 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 contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Swelling of the Feet

Treating Non-Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Foot ulcers are open sores that develop when the skin and underlying tissue break down, often due to poor circulation, pressure, or injury. While many people associate ulcers with diabetes, non-diabetic foot ulcers can also occur from trauma, vascular disease, or prolonged pressure on certain areas of the foot. These wounds may start small but can quickly worsen, if left untreated. A podiatrist can determine the cause, clean and dress the ulcer, and recommend treatments that promote faster healing and prevent infection. Custom orthotics or footwear modifications may also be advised to relieve pressure and protect the affected area. Proper wound care and consistent follow-up are key to recovery. If you have a sore on your foot that becomes painful or does not heal, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Wound Care

The Importance of Wearing the Right Shoes at Work

Wearing the right shoes during the work day is essential for maintaining overall health and comfort. Proper footwear can help reduce the risk of foot disorders like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and blisters by providing appropriate support and cushioning. It also promotes better posture, which can diminish lower back pain and improve alignment throughout the body. Comfortable, supportive shoes help decrease fatigue, allowing you to stay energized and focused throughout the day. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, recommend the best type of footwear for your needs, and provide guidance to prevent pain and injury. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes during your work day, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on the correct shoes to wear. 

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 Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. 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 contact our offices located in Moriches and Shirley, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Working on Your Feet

Neuropathy and Its Effects on the Feet

Neuropathy occurs when nerves become damaged, often affecting sensation and movement. In the feet, it can cause tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain that worsens over time. Common causes include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, infections, and certain medications. Poor circulation, alcohol use, and metabolic disorders increase the likelihood of developing nerve damage. Over time, neuropathy can lead to balance issues and injuries that go unnoticed due to loss of feeling. A podiatrist can evaluate nerve function, identify underlying causes, and recommend treatments such as medication, therapy, or specialized footwear. If you are experiencing unusual sensations or pain in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Family Foot and Ankle Care of Moriches. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

  • Numbness
  • Sensation loss
  • Prickling and tingling sensations
  • Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
  • Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Read more about Neuropathy

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Connect With Us

abpm acfas abfa