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.

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.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints. It often affects the smaller toe joints first, leading to tenderness, swelling, and stiffness that can gradually spread to the ankles. As inflammation progresses, the joints may weaken and become painful during daily activities. Causes include an overactive immune response and risk factors include family history, age, and smoking. When rheumatoid arthritis involves the feet and ankles, walking and balance can become difficult. A podiatrist can help by providing custom orthotics, footwear guidance, and supportive treatments that ease pressure and improve joint function. If your ankles are stiff or swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you relief solutions, helping you to manage this condition.

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

The Achilles tendon is located at the back of the leg near the heel and plays a vital role in foot movement by connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It enables pushing off the ground while walking or running. The two most common Achilles tendon injuries affecting this tendon are acute rupture and Achilles tendinopathy. An acute rupture involves a partial or complete tear, usually caused by sudden forceful movement, often during sports. It typically results in a popping sound, sharp pain in the calf, swelling, and difficulty walking. Achilles tendinopathy is a chronic condition caused by repetitive stress. Over time, small tears form in the tendon, leading to stiffness, pain with use, and a gradual decline in function. Over-training or increasing speed and distance too quickly can contribute to either condition. Treatment may involve surgery or wearing a boot to stabilize the foot. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you see a podiatrist who can help you with this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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 Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Pensacola, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters on the feet develop when repeated friction or pressure causes the outer layer of skin to separate from the underlying layers, allowing fluid to collect in the space between. This clear fluid cushions the damaged tissue and protects it as it heals. Wearing shoes that are too tight or lack adequate support can cause blisters on the toes, heels, or sides of the feet. Excess moisture, long-distance walking, and high-friction activities can also contribute. Sometimes, blisters form due to burns, allergic reactions, or infections that affect the skin on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, drain painful or infected blisters under sterile conditions, and recommend protective footwear or custom padding to prevent recurrence. If you have a painful or infected blister on your foot, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and safe treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.