Swollen feet, or edema, a common and often uncomfortable condition, can stem from various factors, each shedding light on the intricate workings of our body. Prolonged periods of standing or sitting, especially in hot weather, can lead to fluid retention, causing feet to swell. Additionally, injuries such as sprains or fractures trigger an inflammatory response, resulting in localized swelling. Conditions like venous insufficiency, where veins struggle to return blood to the heart, contribute to fluid buildup in the lower extremities. Heart, kidney, or liver issues may also manifest in foot swelling as the body retains excess fluids. Pregnancy, hormonal changes, and certain medications can further exacerbate this phenomenon. If your feet have become swollen, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer tips for relief. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Podiatrists are specialized healthcare professionals who focus on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle disorders. There are various compelling reasons to schedule a visit to a podiatrist. First, persistent foot or ankle pain should not be ignored, as it can be an indicator of an underlying issue. Podiatrists are experts in identifying and addressing the source of your discomfort. They can diagnose conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or heel spurs, and develop personalized treatment plans. If you are experiencing mobility issues, a podiatrist can help. They can provide custom orthotics or recommend appropriate footwear to improve your gait and balance. Diabetes can take a toll on the feet, leading to complications like neuropathy and ulcers. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist are essential for early detection and preventative care. In short, consulting a podiatrist is beneficial for anyone seeking to maintain their overall foot health, in addition to alleviating foot pain. It is suggested that you visit a podiatrist if you are interested in learning more about the field of podiatry. 

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An infection in the ankle can lead to swelling and discomfort. One common type of skin infection on the ankle is cellulitis. People with diabetes are particularly susceptible to foot and ankle infections, making regular inspections for bruises, cuts, and scrapes crucial. When someone with diabetes leaves a foot or leg infection untreated, it can progress to gangrene. Gangrene is a serious condition that causes tissues to die, possibly resulting in a severe infection or reduced blood supply. Treatment for ankle infections varies depending on their type and severity. In cases of bacterial infections, a podiatrist will prescribe antibiotics to combat the infection. However, if the infection has advanced to gangrene, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the damaged tissue and prevent further complications. Early detection and appropriate treatment are essential in managing these infections. If you have ankle pain and a brewing infection in this area, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist as quickly as possible for a proper diagnosis and immediate treatment.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Orthotics can provide significant relief for individuals suffering from bunion pain. Bunions are characterized by the enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe, often leading to pain, swelling, and altered foot biomechanics. Orthotics offer several benefits in managing this condition. They help redistribute pressure and support the arch of the foot, reducing the strain on the affected joint. This alleviates pain and prevents the bunion from worsening. Orthotics can also correct abnormal foot mechanics, such as overpronation or supination, which can contribute to bunion formation and exacerbation. By promoting proper alignment, orthotics help avoid further deformity. Additionally, they offer cushioning and shock absorption, reducing discomfort when walking or engaging in physical activities. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care options and discussion on whether orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People can drop a heavy object on their foot, and may wonder if it is a temporary pain or something more serious like a broken toe. Broken toes are often the result of such accidents as having a heavy object drop on the foot, jamming it into a piece of furniture, or from missing a step. They can also occur due to an aggravated stress fracture, abnormal foot structure, or conditions such as osteoporosis. When a toe breaks, it causes severe pain, swelling, and bruising. Walking becomes difficult, but it is important to note that the ability to walk on a broken toe does not rule out a fracture. Diagnosis typically involves a visual examination and may require X-rays to be taken. Treatment options range from rest and elevation for minor fractures to splinting or buddy taping for more severe cases. In rare instances, surgery may be necessary to ensure proper healing. Complications such as toenail trauma, chronic pain, stiffness, and deformity can arise if a broken toe is not treated correctly. If you suspect you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a timely and effective recovery.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Sutera and Jones Surgical Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Media, Glen Mills, Riddle Memorial Hospital, and Concordville, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.