Swelling in the feet can result from various factors that affect circulation and fluid balance. Long periods of sitting or standing can lead to fluid buildup due to reduced blood flow, causing discomfort and puffiness. Certain medical conditions, including heart, kidney, or liver disease, can contribute to swelling by affecting the body's ability to regulate fluids. A high salt intake may also cause water retention, leading to noticeable swelling in the lower extremities. Blood clots can obstruct circulation, resulting in one-sided swelling accompanied by pain or redness. Additionally, wearing tight footwear restricts movement and can worsen fluid accumulation. A sedentary lifestyle may also contribute to poor circulation, increasing the risk of swelling. If you notice your feet and ankles are swollen, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. 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 offices located in . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A hammertoe occurs when a toe bends downward at the end and curls at the middle joint, often leading to stiffness and pain. Hammertoe most commonly affects the second toe but can develop in others as well. Early signs of a hammertoe include a bent toe that remains flexible, but, over time, it can become rigid and painful. Friction from footwear may cause corns, calluses, or blisters on the top of the toe or the bottom of the foot, making walking uncomfortable. Hammertoe is often caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow, which forces the toes into an unnatural position. High heels and certain foot structures, such as long toe bones or bunions, can increase the likelihood of developing a hammertoe. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the hammertoe and recommend treatment, which may include changing footwear or using orthotic devices to relieve pressure. In severe cases where the toe is no longer flexible, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options, which may include surgery.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Flat feet can cause pain in the arches, heels, or along the inside of the ankles, especially after standing for long periods or engaging in physical activity. Some people may experience swelling near the ankle or general foot fatigue. Children with persistent foot or ankle pain should be evaluated to determine if flat feet are causing the problem. A podiatrist can assess flat feet by examining your foot structure, checking for an arch when you stand on your toes, and reviewing wear patterns on your shoes. If pain is present, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may be used to examine bones, joints, and soft tissues. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and preventing complications. Wearing supportive shoes and custom orthotics can help improve foot alignment and relieve strain from flat feet. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair any damaged tendons or realign foot structures. Without treatment, flat feet may contribute to tendonitis or joint pain. If you have foot pain related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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