Swollen Feet May Be a Sign of Diabetes

Swollen feet can signal circulation problems, fluid buildup, or underlying inflammation caused by diabetes. The feet may look puffy, shiny, or discolored, and the skin may feel tight or tender when pressed. Symptoms include aching, heaviness, reduced mobility, or warmth in the affected areas. Causes often relate to poor blood flow, nerve damage, infection, or prolonged standing. Because swelling can make it difficult to notice cuts, blisters, or pressure points, the risk of complications increases without proper care. A podiatrist can begin with a thorough examination to assess circulation, nerve function, and skin integrity while identifying what may be triggering the swelling. Treatment may include compression guidance, footwear recommendations, wound care if needed, and strategies to improve daily foot protection. Ongoing monitoring is essential for preventing ulcers and maintaining overall foot health. Because early attention is vital for long term safety, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition. 

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 Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor 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 Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Preventing Toenail and Toe Discomfort While Hiking

Toenail and toe pain while hiking is a common problem that can turn an enjoyable outdoor adventure into a painful experience. Causes often include wearing shoes that are too tight or too loose, friction from improper socks, and repetitive impact on uneven terrain. To prevent these issues, it is important to wear properly sized hiking shoes, gradually break them in before long treks, and choose socks with cushioning and reinforcement in key areas. These steps help reduce pressure on the toes, prevent blisters, and protect the toenails from trauma. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, recommend appropriate footwear, and provide treatment for any persistent pain or nail injuries. If you have toe or toenail pain that is preventing you from enjoying your hiking experience, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Mark Isenberg, DPM of Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Facts About Swollen Ankles and Feet

Swollen ankles and feet are a common issue that can result from a variety of causes. Prolonged standing or sitting can lead to fluid buildup in the lower extremities, while high salt intake can increase water retention. Pregnancy often contributes to swelling due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on blood vessels, and obesity places extra stress on the feet and ankles, worsening fluid accumulation. Symptoms may include puffiness, tightness, discomfort, and difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause, recommend strategies to reduce swelling, provide supportive footwear options, and offer therapies to improve circulation and foot health. If you have persistent swelling in your feet or ankles, it is  suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide effective relief tips. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Mark Isenberg, DPM of Center for Podiatric Excellence. 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 Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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How Sciatica Can Cause Foot Pain

Foot pain linked to sciatica occurs when the sciatic nerve, which extends from the lower back to the feet, becomes compressed or irritated. This compression disrupts nerve signals, causing pain that can radiate into the heel, arch, or toes. People often notice tingling, burning, or numbness on the top or bottom of the foot, and some experience weakness when standing on their toes or lifting the front of the foot. The discomfort can worsen when walking, wearing shoes that lack adequate support, or standing for long periods. A podiatrist can evaluate whether the source of pain is nerve-related or due to another foot condition, such as plantar fasciitis or tarsal tunnel syndrome. Diagnostic imaging and nerve testing can help confirm the cause. Treatment may involve orthotics, shoe adjustments, or surgery if nerve compression is severe. If you have symptoms of sciatica-related foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and suggested treatment.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Mark Isenberg, DPM from Center for Podiatric Excellence. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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