Swelling in the feet or ankles may be more than a discomfort and may signal an underlying health concern. This condition, known as edema, occurs when excess fluid collects in the body’s tissues. It causes the skin to appear puffy, tight, or shiny. Swelling can develop after injuries, such as ankle sprains, fractures, or muscle strains, because the body sends fluid to protect and repair damaged structures. Long periods of standing, pregnancy, and poor circulation can also contribute to fluid buildup in the lower limbs. Swollen feet also may be linked to conditions involving the heart, kidneys, or liver that affect how the body manages fluids. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, reduced ankle movement, or difficulty walking. A podiatrist can assess the cause of swelling by examining foot structure, joint motion, and circulation. Treatment options include supportive devices, footwear changes, or further testing. If you notice unusual or painful swelling in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Save Your Soles. 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 Abington and Willow Grove, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing proper pickleball shoes is essential for safety and performance on the court. These shoes are designed for side-to-side movement, quick stops, and a strong grip. Using them only for pickleball helps preserve their specialized structure, since other activities can break down support and traction. Wearing the wrong footwear may increase the risk of injuries such as ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, and stress- related foot pain. Proper shoes help maintain balance and reduce strain during play. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics and recommend the best footwear or orthotics. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief solutions and guidance on wearing the right footwear.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Save Your Soles. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

Foot deformities occur when the bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments that support the foot move out of their normal position. The foot is built to be strong and flexible so it can support body weight and allow smooth walking. When its structure changes, the shape of the foot and the way a person walks may also change. Several types of foot deformities can develop. A splayfoot occurs when the bones in the front of the foot spread apart, making the forefoot wider. Flat feet develop when the arch, the curved area under the foot that helps absorb shock, becomes lowered. High-arched feet have an arch that is higher than normal and place more pressure on the heel and ball of the foot. Some deformities, such as clubfoot, are present at birth. Others develop over time due to injury, arthritis, tight shoes, or repeated strain on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and recommend treatment to improve comfort and walking ability. If you have a foot deformity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Save Your Soles. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Abington and Willow Grove, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures of the foot are small hairline cracks in the bones that develop from repeated pressure and overuse rather than a single traumatic injury. These injuries commonly occur in athletes and anyone who participates in high-impact activities that place repeated stress on the feet. Causes often include sudden increases in activity, wearing improper footwear, and inadequate rest between training sessions. Risk factors may include low bone density, poor foot mechanics, and participation in running, basketball, soccer, and tennis. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, tenderness, and discomfort that worsens with activity. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, recommend imaging if needed, provide supportive treatment, and guide proper recovery. If you have persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat foot stress fractures.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Save Your Soles. our doctors 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 offices located in Abington and Willow Grove, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.