Swollen feet and ankles can stem from a range of medical causes, including lymphedema, infections, trauma, diabetes, and blood clots. Swelling may also be due to fluid buildup from prolonged sitting or standing, or complications from pregnancy. One-sided swelling may point to infection, such as cellulitis, or a blocked vein caused by a clot. Lymphedema, which results from fluid buildup in the tissues, can be either hereditary or caused by other medical conditions. Diabetes can cause swelling through fluid retention or secondary infection. Signs of swollen feet may include puffiness, pain, redness, or warmth, depending on the underlying issue. Trauma-related swelling may call for surgery, especially in cases of compartment syndrome. This occurs when pressure builds within a closed muscle compartment, reducing blood flow and potentially causing tissue damage. A podiatrist can evaluate these symptoms, identify the cause of swelling, and recommend appropriate treatment. If you notice that your feet or ankles are swollen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor 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 Hallandale Beach, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Soaking the foot in warm water with Epsom salts can help reduce inflammation and soften the nail. Keeping the foot clean and dry afterward is essential. Gently lifting the nail edge with a clean piece of cotton or dental floss may relieve pressure, but this should only be attempted in mild cases. Wearing tight shoes or socks can worsen the condition and should be avoided. Mild pain relievers may help with discomfort. If the area becomes increasingly red, warm, or begins to drain pus, these are signs of infection. Recurrent or severe ingrown toenails may require a minor in-office procedure to remove part of the nail or the nail root. If home care is not effective, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for safe and lasting treatment.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Bacterial infections
Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
Genetic predisposition
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Cracked heels can be more than just a cosmetic concern. They may signal an underlying nutritional issue, particularly a vitamin deficiency. Vitamins play an essential role in maintaining skin health and elasticity. When the body lacks essential nutrients, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and certain B vitamins, the skin may become dry, rough, and prone to cracking. These deficiencies affect the skin's ability to repair itself and retain moisture, which leads to fissures around the heels. People with poor diets or malabsorption issues are at greater risk. In addition to moisturizing and wearing supportive footwear, addressing any nutritional shortfalls through diet or supplements may help improve the condition of the heels. Cracked heels can be uncomfortable and unsightly. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.
If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Adriana Strimbu, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Cracked Heels
It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.
Ways to Help Heal Them
Invest in a good foot cream
Try Using Petroleum Jelly
Ease up on Soaps
Drink Plenty of Water
Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels
Moisturize After Showering
Skip a Shower
Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
Don’t Scrub Your Feet
If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Hallandale Beach, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
