Swollen ankles are a common issue that can arise from various causes, including poor circulation, injury, or fluid retention. Conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver disease can lead to fluid buildup in the lower extremities, causing swelling. Prolonged standing or sitting, especially during long flights or road trips, can also contribute to ankle swelling. Injury, such as sprains or fractures, often results in swelling as the body reacts to trauma. To relieve swollen ankles, elevating the feet can help reduce fluid accumulation. Applying cold compresses can reduce swelling and provide pain relief. Wearing compression socks and staying active by walking or moving the feet regularly can improve circulation. Reducing salt intake and staying hydrated also helps prevent fluid retention. If you have swollen feet and ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and management solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. 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 feel free to contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A foot stress fracture is a small crack or break in a bone caused by repetitive force or overuse. This type of fracture often occurs in athletes, particularly runners, and people who engage in high-impact activities. The primary cause of a stress fracture is the accumulation of stress on the bone leading to tiny cracks. Common symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and tenderness, particularly during activity or when pressure is applied to the affected area. Finding relief from a stress fracture typically involves rest, avoiding weight-bearing activities, and elevating the foot to reduce swelling. A podiatrist may recommend wearing a walking boot or using crutches to minimize stress on the foot. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and effectively treat a foot stress fracture.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. 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 feel free to contact our office located in South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, where it angles toward the second toe. This condition occurs when the bones in the front of the foot shift out of alignment, causing the big toe to lean inward. Over time, the misalignment leads to the formation of a prominent bump on the joint. Symptoms of bunions include pain, swelling, redness, and the development of calluses or corns where the toes rub against the shoe. The pain can worsen with prolonged standing or walking. Common causes of bunions include genetics, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, and excessive pressure on the feet. Conditions like arthritis or flat feet can also contribute to the development of bunions. While bunions may be managed with conservative treatments, surgery may be needed for severe cases to restore normal foot function and alleviate pain. If you have symptoms of a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward treatment methods that are right for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Podiatrists play a vital role in maintaining and improving foot health through comprehensive assessments and tailored care. During an exam, these doctors evaluate the structure, alignment, and function of the feet, looking for issues like abnormal gait, skin changes, or signs of underlying conditions. They assess footwear choices and advise on proper shoe fit to prevent problems like bunions or calluses. For those with specific conditions like diabetes, podiatrists focus on preventing complications by examining the skin and checking circulation and nerve function. If issues like nail infections, corns, or chronic pain are present, podiatrists provide targeted treatments, which may include orthotics, wound care, or recommendations for daily foot care routines. If you would like to make sure you are tending to proper foot care or if you have specific concerns about your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist who can monitor changes over time, address any emerging concerns, and promote long-term foot health.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Nerve pain in the feet, such as Baxter’s neuropathy and Morton’s neuroma, can cause significant discomfort and difficulty walking. Baxter’s neuropathy occurs when the lateral plantar nerve in the heel becomes compressed, leading to sharp, burning, or tingling pain in the bottom of the foot. Morton’s neuroma, on the other hand, is a thickening of tissue surrounding the nerve between the toes, often causing pain, numbness, or a feeling of walking on a pebble. Both conditions are more common in older adults due to age-related changes in the feet, such as reduced circulation or factors that affect nerve health, such as wearing tight shoes, arthritis, or diabetes. Treatment for both conditions includes wearing proper footwear, using custom orthotics, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and performing targeted exercises. In severe cases, injections or surgery may be necessary. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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