Swollen feet can make shoes feel tight and movement uncomfortable. This swelling, called edema, happens when extra fluid collects in tissues. It can affect the feet, ankles, or lower legs. Some people notice puffiness after sitting for long periods, especially while traveling. Others experience swelling that lasts longer. The skin may feel stretched or tight, and the legs can feel heavy. Swelling is not always caused by a foot injury. It can signal that fluid is having difficulty moving back through the body. Recognizing changes in foot size and comfort helps patients seek timely care.

Poor circulation in the veins is one possible cause of swollen feet. Veins contain small valves that help blood travel toward the heart. When these valves weaken, fluid can collect around the ankles. Another cause is lymphedema, which develops when the body's fluid drainage system cannot work properly. This system normally carries excess fluid away from tissues. Limited movement and excess body weight can increase the risk of persistent swelling. Swelling lasting longer than three months is considered chronic. Without proper treatment, ongoing swelling can lead to thickened skin and a greater risk of infection.

A podiatrist can examine swollen feet and assess changes in the skin, circulation, and foot shape. The evaluation helps identify possible causes and determine appropriate care. Depending on the findings, treatment may involve professionally fitted compression garments to help control fluid buildup. Compression is not appropriate for every patient, so circulation must be checked first.  A podiatrist can also recommend suitable shoes and assess how swelling affects walking. Sudden swelling in one leg, especially with pain or redness, requires urgent evaluation. Swelling accompanied by breathing difficulty requires emergency attention. If you have symptoms of swelling of the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, Bath, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. It most often affects the big toe and can cause pain, tenderness, and swelling. The skin beside the nail may look irritated or raised, while the nail edge can appear buried under the skin. In more advanced cases, drainage or infection may develop.

Several factors can contribute to ingrown toenails. Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners may encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Wearing tight shoes can also create pressure around the toes. Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails because of naturally curved nails, repeated toe injuries, or nail changes. Recognizing these risk factors can help reduce future problems. Proper nail trimming and comfortable footwear may lower pressure around the affected toe.

When an ingrown toenail keeps returning or causes significant pain, a podiatrist may recommend surgery. A partial nail avulsion removes the portion of the nail growing into the skin while leaving the remaining nail in place. A total nail avulsion removes the entire nail and may be considered for certain conditions. A podiatrist may also perform ablation of the nail matrix, which prevents the treated nail portion from growing back. The procedure selected depends on the nail and individual needs.

During treatment, a podiatrist evaluates the toe, checks for infection, and determines the appropriate procedure. Afterward, the toe is dressed and home-care instructions are provided to support healing. Patients may be advised to keep pressure away from the toe and attend follow-up visits. If you have painful ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include minor surgery. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, Bath, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A heel spur is a bony growth that develops along the underside or back of the heel bone. It forms when ongoing stress causes calcium deposits to build up over time. Although a heel spur may appear on an X-ray, it does not always cause pain. Common symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, and discomfort after rest. Several factors can contribute to heel spur development. Understanding these factors can help you make informed choices about foot care. Pain may be strongest with the first steps in the morning.

Age is one risk factor because cushioning and flexibility can change over time. Excessive weight can place additional pressure on the heels during daily activities. Poor foot function may also contribute when abnormal walking mechanics increase stress on the heel. Other risk factors include prolonged standing, repetitive activity, and tight calf muscles. A history of plantar fasciitis may also increase the likelihood of developing a heel spur.

When heel pain continues, a podiatrist begins with a discussion of symptoms and a foot examination. X-rays may identify a heel spur and evaluate the heel bone. The podiatrist may recommend activity changes, heel cushions, or custom orthotics to reduce pressure. Treatment can also include medication when appropriate to manage inflammation and pain. If symptoms persist, additional podiatric treatments may be considered based on the cause and severity of the condition.

A heel spur can sound concerning, especially when pain affects your routine, but the presence of a spur does not automatically mean surgery is necessary. Early evaluation can help you understand why your heel hurts and what steps may improve comfort. If you have persistent heel pain or a heel spur, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from PA Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Allentown, Easton, Northampton, Bath, and Chew Street in Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.