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Swollen Feet and Ankles and When to Seek Podiatric Care

Swollen feet and ankles occur when excess fluid accumulates in the lower limbs, a condition known as edema. This swelling can cause discomfort, tightness, or a heavy sensation in the legs. Common causes include blood clots, venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and prolonged standing or sitting, all of which can affect circulation and lead to fluid retention or more serious complications if untreated. A podiatrist can determine the underlying cause with a thorough physical examination, imaging studies, and lab testing to check for conditions like kidney, liver, or heart issues that may contribute to swelling. Treatment may include compression therapy, lifestyle modifications, and custom orthotics to improve circulation. If your feet and ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause is, and offer relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. 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 Teaneck, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Retro Walking May Strengthen Your Feet

Walking backward on a treadmill, also known as retro walking, is a simple yet effective way to strengthen and stretch the feet and lower legs. To perform it safely, turn off the treadmill, hold the rails for balance, and step backward slowly while keeping your posture upright. This exercise helps improve balance, coordination, and flexibility while engaging muscles that are often underused during forward walking. It can also reduce strain on the knees and promote better foot alignment. A podiatrist can assess your gait, provide guidance on safe technique, and recommend exercises to support your foot health. If you have foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and inform you on additional health benefits of enhancing strength and stability by retro walking.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Robert Marcus from Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

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Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Causes and Symptoms of Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common foot complaint that can significantly impact daily activities. It may stem from conditions such as plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, or neuromas. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, causing sharp pain near the heel, especially in the morning. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the heel bone often caused by repetitive stress or overuse, resulting in a dull, aching pain that worsens with activity. Neuromas are nerve-related issues that can cause burning or tingling sensations, sometimes accompanied by swelling. The heel may appear swollen or bruised and feel tender to the touch. A podiatrist can diagnose the exact cause through a physical exam and imaging tests. Treatment options include custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, or, in some cases, minor surgical procedures. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if heel pain persists.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

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Protecting Foot Health in People with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis often affects the small joints of the feet, leading to pain, stiffness, and deformity that can make walking difficult. Inflammation can weaken ligaments and change the alignment of the toes and arches, increasing pressure in certain areas and raising the risk of corns, calluses, and ulcers. Proper foot care plays a vital role in managing these symptoms and maintaining mobility. Wearing supportive shoes with cushioned soles, a wide toe box, and custom orthotics help reduce stress on painful joints. Regular podiatric care allows early detection of changes that may require adjustments in footwear or treatment. Stretching, gentle exercise, and controlling inflammation through medical management can further protect joint function. If you are suffering with foot or ankle pain from rheumatoid arthritis, it is suggested that you seek professional guidance from a podiatrist.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. Robert Marcus of Foot & Ankle Center of Teaneck. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and pain in the feet
  • Stiffness in the feet
  • Pain on the ball or sole of feet
  • Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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

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