Ankle Swelling Can Indicate Serious Problems

Swollen ankles are often caused by a buildup of fluid in the lower legs, a condition known as edema. This occurs when excess fluid collects in body tissues, leading to visible puffiness that may affect the feet, ankles, and even the calves. While swelling is common in older people, it can also be linked to standing for long periods, long travel, pregnancy, or being overweight. In some cases, ankle swelling may signal more serious problems, including poor vein function, blood clots, or disorders involving the heart, kidneys, or liver. Certain medications can also contribute to swelling. A podiatrist can evaluate the pattern and severity of swelling, examine circulation, and order diagnostic tests to identify the cause. Early diagnosis is important to prevent complications and protect long-term foot and ankle health. If you notice foot or ankle swelling, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New Jersey. 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 office located in Neptune City, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Get Proper Treatment for Ankle Injuries

If you're experiencing ankle pain, you may be suffering from an ankle injury. Sprains, fractures, Achilles tendonitis, and Achilles tendon ruptures are just some examples of potential ankle injuries. Don't wait for care for an ankle injury, as it may worsen over time. We can help!

Toenails That Grow the Wrong Way

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail presses into the surrounding skin, leading to redness, swelling, and sharp pain along the border of the nail. It may look puffy or irritated and can sometimes drain if infection is present. This condition often occurs after improper trimming, tight shoes, or injury to the toe. Early treatment may include careful trimming and reducing pressure, but when the problem becomes chronic, more advanced care is needed. A traditional matrixectomy removes part of the nail root to permanently narrow the nail and prevent regrowth along the painful edge. A nail brace offers a more conservative option by gently lifting and reshaping the nail over time without removing tissue. A podiatrist will evaluate the severity, discuss health history, and recommend the most appropriate solution. If you have an ingrown toenail that continues to return or becomes infected, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of New Jersey. our doctors 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

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 Neptune City, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Circulation Problems and Foot Ulcers

Poor circulation is a concern for people with diabetes because narrowed blood vessels reduce oxygen flow to the feet. When tissues lack blood, small pressure areas can break into open sores called foot ulcers, often on the ball of the foot or under the big toe. These wounds may not hurt when nerve damage is present, yet infection can spread to deeper structures, including bone. Some people notice calf cramping while walking, a sign of reduced circulation. A podiatrist measures blood flow, checks sensation, and evaluates the ulcer’s depth and infection risk. Care may involve removing unhealthy tissue, imaging to rule out bone infection, and protective footwear or casting to relieve pressure and support healing. Coordinated medical management is essential to prevent recurrence and monitor healing progress. If you have foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and ongoing treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

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The Medical Specialty Focused on Feet and Mobility

Podiatry is a medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, and lower legs. People often seek help from a podiatrist because of pain, swelling, numbness, or changes in skin and nail appearance. These problems may be caused by injury, overuse, circulation problems, or chronic conditions such as diabetes. A podiatrist begins care with a detailed medical history and physical examination, followed by imaging or testing when appropriate. Treatment then progresses to personalized care plans that may include medication, custom orthotics, footwear guidance, targeted exercises, and preventive education. Podiatrists also address infections, wounds, and structural concerns, while helping patients protect their balance and mobility. Early podiatric care can reduce complications and support long-term foot health. If you have problematic foot or ankle conditions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from New Jersey. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

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