Swollen feet, or edema, occur when excess fluid collects in the tissues of the feet and ankles, leading to puffiness, discomfort, and difficulty walking. While swelling can be linked to heart failure, where the heart cannot pump blood effectively, other causes include kidney or liver problems, poor circulation, prolonged standing or sitting, pregnancy, and certain medications. Recognizing the underlying cause is essential for preventing complications and maintaining mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate swelling, assess foot and ankle health, and provide treatments such as compression therapy, supportive footwear recommendations, and guidance on lifestyle changes to reduce fluid retention. If your feet are swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief and management solutions.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Amy DeGirolamo, DPM of Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our practitioner 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 office located in Miami,FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot corns are small, thickened areas of hardened skin that develop due to repeated pressure or friction, often on the tops, sides, or soles of the feet. They commonly form from wearing tight shoes, abnormal foot mechanics, or frequent walking or standing. Symptoms include raised, rough bumps that can be tender or extremely painful, especially when pressure is applied. Corns can interfere with walking and daily activities, if left untreated. A podiatrist can safely remove corns, address the underlying cause, and recommend strategies to prevent recurrence. Treatment may include padding, custom orthotics, footwear adjustments, and guidance on proper foot care. Corns can cause extreme pain. If you have developed a foot corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Amy DeGirolamo, DPM of Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
- Well-fitting socks
- Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
- Shoes that offer support
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our practitioner to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Miami,FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.
Choosing shoes for a toddler is an important step because their feet are still developing and the bones are soft. Bare feet at home help new walkers learn balance, but shoes for outdoors are needed to protect the feet from rough or cold ground. When selecting shoes for a toddler, look for soft materials, flexible soles, and fastenings that hold the foot securely without squeezing the toes. There should be enough space at the front for toes to move and spread, and the heel should not slip. Canvas, cotton, or leather help keep the feet cool, while synthetic materials can trap moisture. Your toddler’s shoes should be checked frequently because their feet grow quickly and tighter shoes can inhibit normal foot growth. A podiatrist can evaluate your toddler’s feet and offer advice on proper fit. For help in selecting the proper footwear for a toddler or to address any existing foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Amy DeGirolamo, DPM of Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Miami,FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
