Swollen feet and ankles can occur for many reasons and may signal an underlying health issue. Common causes include eating too much salt, pregnancy, hormonal changes, insect bites, or reactions to certain medications. Swelling can also indicate poor circulation, injury, or inflammation. While mild swelling may resolve with rest and elevation, persistent or painful swelling should not be ignored. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, perform diagnostic tests, and recommend treatments to reduce discomfort and improve circulation. If your feet or ankles are frequently swollen or painful, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective relief and treatment remedies.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Kelly Whaley, DPM of Ohio. 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 Willoughby, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse. Symptoms include heel pain, swelling, and tenderness, especially during sports or physical activity. Risk factors include rapid growth spurts, participation in running or jumping sports, tight calf muscles, and wearing improper footwear. Causes are linked to repetitive pulling of the Achilles tendon on the heel bone. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot structure, recommend stretching, custom orthotics, footwear adjustments, and rest to relieve pain and prevent recurrence. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and offer effective relief tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

A lump on the side of the foot can develop from several causes related to foot structure, fluid buildup, inflammation, or benign growths. Structural issues such as bone prominence or joint misalignment may create noticeable bumps, while inflammation from overuse or irritation can lead to swollen areas. Fluid-filled cysts or soft tissue growths can also appear, causing discomfort or difficulty wearing shoes. A podiatrist can determine the exact cause through a thorough examination and imaging, offering treatment options such as custom orthotics, medication, or minor procedures. If you notice a lump on the side of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the cause, and offer effective relief and management tips.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Kelly Whaley, DPM from Ohio. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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