Items filtered by date: November 2024

Swollen feet, a condition known as edema, is common among people with diabetes. Edema occurs when fluid builds up in the tissues, leading to puffiness, especially in the feet, ankles, and legs. Diabetes can contribute to edema due to poor circulation, nerve damage, or kidney problems, all of which make it harder for the body to regulate fluid properly. Symptoms of swollen feet include visible puffiness, tight or shiny skin, and discomfort. If left untreated, swelling can lead to complications, including infections or ulcers, especially in diabetic patients with reduced sensation in their feet. Treatment for edema typically involves elevating the feet, wearing compression socks, managing blood sugar levels, and limiting salt intake. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend specific exercises or custom footwear to alleviate pressure. If you are experiencing swollen feet, it is suggested you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist. Early intervention can prevent further complications and provide effective relief.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. 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 contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot, often resulting from repetitive stress or overuse. Common causes include high-impact activities, sudden increases in exercise intensity, and inadequate footwear. Symptoms typically include localized tenderness, pain, and weakness in the affected area, especially during physical activity or when putting weight on the foot. Swelling and bruising may also occur. Treatment for stress fractures focuses on rest and immobilization. A podiatrist may recommend using a walking boot or crutches to reduce pressure on the foot, along with anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain. Gradual rehabilitation exercises can also help restore strength and flexibility. If you suspect you have a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a tailored treatment plan to promote healing and prevent future injuries.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM from Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Common causes include improper nail trimming by cutting nails too short or rounding the edges, leading the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight or narrow shoes can also push the nail into the skin, increasing the risk. Other common causes include trauma, such as stubbing or injuring the toe, and repetitive pressure from activities like running. Less common causes include genetic predisposition, where nail shape naturally curves into the skin, and nail disorders or fungal infections that alter nail growth. A podiatrist diagnoses ingrown toenails by examining the affected toe for signs of redness, swelling, and infection. Treatment varies by severity, with mild cases usually requiring trimming and proper nail care guidance. More severe cases may need partial nail removal, antibiotics for infection, and sometimes a minor surgical procedure to prevent recurrence. If you have an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for proper treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Poor circulation in the feet can result from several underlying health issues, significantly impacting overall well-being. Atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries become narrowed due to plaque buildup, restricts blood flow and can lead to inadequate circulation in the lower extremities. High blood pressure is another contributing factor, as it can damage blood vessels over time, further impeding blood flow. Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a narrowing of the arteries specifically in the legs and feet, leading to pain and numbness during physical activity. Heart failure can also cause poor circulation, as the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, resulting in reduced blood supply to the extremities. If you have poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer effective treatment solutions.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Howard Abramsohn, DPM of Ambulatory Foot and Ankle Associates, LLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Mt Laurel Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.