Foot and ankle swelling, also known as edema, can result from a variety of causes. Being overweight increases pressure on the veins and can lead to fluid buildup, while older adults are more prone to it due to reduced circulation. Blood clots in the legs can cause sudden swelling and require immediate attention, and infections in the leg or foot may also lead to localized swelling, redness, and pain. Other contributing factors include prolonged standing, injury, or certain medical conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause through a physical examination and diagnostic testing, provide treatment to reduce swelling, and recommend lifestyle or footwear adjustments to prevent recurrence. If your feet or ankles have become swollen, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM of Elite Foot and Ankle. 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 Canton, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition where the tibial nerve, located near the ankle, becomes compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow space inside the ankle. This can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the foot and ankle, often radiating into the toes. Symptoms may worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity. A podiatrist diagnoses tarsal tunnel syndrome through a physical examination, reviewing the patient’s symptoms, and conducting tests, such as nerve conduction studies or imaging, to identify nerve compression. Treatment usually begins with conservative methods like rest and targeted stretching exercises to alleviate pressure on the tibial nerve. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and in severe cases surgery may be needed to release the compressed nerve. If you have symptoms as described, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer relief that will restore function to the affected foot.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM of Elite Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

For individuals with arthritis in the feet or ankles, wearing the right footwear can make a remarkable difference in comfort and mobility. Supportive shoes help reduce pressure on painful joints, improve alignment, and provide stability during walking or standing. Custom orthotics can further cushion the foot, evenly distribute weight, and ease strain on inflamed areas. Choosing shoes with a wide toe box, firm heel support, and flexible soles promotes better balance and movement while minimizing fatigue. In some cases, rocker-bottom soles or extra-depth designs can help improve motion and reduce stiffness. Working with a podiatrist ensures footwear is properly fitted and matched to each person’s unique needs and activity level. With the right support, individuals with arthritic feet or ankles can move more comfortably and maintain an active, independent lifestyle. For individualized advice on footwear to ease arthritis pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM from Elite Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

Heel pain is a frequent complaint, and while many cases are linked to plantar fasciitis, nerve entrapment can also be a significant cause. One overlooked source is called Baxter’s nerve entrapment, which involves the first branch of a nerve that passes through tight spaces in the heel. This nerve can become compressed by certain muscles, a heel spur, or excess strain from foot pronation. When trapped, the nerve may produce sharp pain that radiates along the heel, often worsening at night or after activity. Some people may also notice weakness in the small muscles of the foot. Because the symptoms can mimic other heel conditions, a podiatrist is essential in performing a careful exam to identify the true cause and recommend the right treatment. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dwayne A. Lay, DPM of Elite Foot and Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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