Having swollen feet is uncomfortable. There are various reasons why this condition can happen, ranging from pregnancy to eating foods that are laden with sodium. Swollen feet can also be accompanied by skin that is tight, puffy, and shiny, and depending on its severity, may cause difficulty in walking. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions that can lead to having swollen feet. These can include heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency. Swollen feet may happen from having a sedentary lifestyle, and it can be helpful to include gentle exercise into the daily routine. Pregnant women may wish to reduce sodium intake and drink plenty of water daily may help to combat swollen feet and ankles. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer additional methods.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM of Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 offices located in Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many women have foot pain while wearing high heels, or soon after they are taken off. Falling episodes may be increased, and research has shown wearing this type of shoe can be a leading cause of foot problems among women. Hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes the second and third toes to bend at the middle joint and point downward. This can be a result of having inadequate room for the toes to move freely in. Many high-heeled shoes have pointed toes, providing less than ample room at the top of the shoe. A condition known as Morton’s neuroma can develop if the nerve between the third and fourth toes becomes compressed or irritated. It can also occur from the minimum room for the toes. Studies have shown the calf muscles may be affected when high heels are frequently worn, which may lead to chronic heel pain. If you would like more information about the possible dangers of wearing high heels, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

People with flat feet who enjoy running may experience challenges in finding the right running shoe. There are several factors to consider when deciding which type of shoe to purchase. These can consist of the gait cycle, the individual foot, and the range of motion. Some people have collapsed arches that can cause their feet to become flat due to muscle weakness. Patients with flat feet may opt for a shoe that has additional arch support to help the foot regain strength. Adults who have anatomically flat feet may choose a shoe without arch support, which may help to protect the knees. Research has shown that many flat-footed runners may feel better when stability shoes are worn, even though they may not help to correct the foot structure. Wearing a full-contact midsole shoe may help to protect the entire foot while running, therefore, these shoes are a popular choice among people who have flat feet. If you have flat feet and would like more information about what type of running shoes to purchase, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the best choice.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor 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 Lakewood and Manchester Township, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An individual requires a significant amount of water every day. Many people drink far less water than is recommended on a daily basis. This might become problematic during a pregnancy. Pregnant women can reap many health benefits by drinking water daily and staying hydrated. Some of these benefits are linked to foot health. For example, when pregnant women drink a lot of water during pregnancy, this can reduce the amount of salt in the body, which leads to a reduction in puffiness or swelling. Drinking coffee can complicate matters by exacerbating dehydration. If you are pregnant or planning to be, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist so that you can plan to best protect the health of your feet. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Glenn Aufseeser, DPM from Lakewood Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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