Swollen Ankles and Possible Medication Causes

Swollen ankles occur when fluid accumulates in the tissues surrounding the ankle joint, leading to discomfort, tightness, and limited mobility. This condition can result from prolonged standing, injury, or underlying health issues such as heart, liver, or kidney disease. Certain medications, including blood pressure drugs, steroids, and hormone treatments, may also contribute to ankle swelling by affecting fluid balance in the body. Symptoms often include visible puffiness, heaviness, and sometimes pain or redness. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of swollen ankles, recommend lifestyle changes, prescribe supportive devices, and develop a treatment plan to reduce swelling and prevent complications. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Soorena Sadri, DPM of FootWorx Active Podiatry. 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 Fort Myers, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Ingrown Toenails and Other Common Toenail Conditions

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. They often result from improper trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury, and can worsen if infection develops. Early treatment helps relieve discomfort and prevents further complications. Other toenail conditions, such as fungal infections, thickened nails, or nail trauma, can also cause changes in nail color, shape, and texture. These issues may be uncomfortable and make walking or wearing shoes difficult. A podiatrist can safely remove part of an ingrown nail, prescribe medication for infection, or recommend treatments to restore healthy nail growth. Paying attention to nail health, keeping feet clean and dry, and trimming nails straight across are simple steps that help prevent problems. If you have painful or abnormal toenails, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Soorena Sadri, DPM of FootWorx Active Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

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Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Recognizing and Healing Foot Stress Fractures

Tiny bone cracks in the foot often appear after repetitive strain, long walks, or sudden increases in exercise. The discomfort usually begins as a dull ache that worsens with movement and eases with rest. Swelling, tenderness, or pain in a specific spot may signal that the bone has been overstressed and needs attention. A podiatrist can identify a stress fracture through imaging tests and a hands-on exam. Treatment usually involves taking pressure off the foot so the bone can mend naturally. Supportive footwear, protective boots, or temporary use of crutches may be recommended. Once healing is underway, gentle activity helps rebuild strength and stability. If you continue to feel pain in your foot during daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to prevent the injury from becoming more serious.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Soorena Sadri, DPM from FootWorx Active Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

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

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Managing Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, intense pain, redness, and swelling, often in the big toe. The primary cause of gout is high levels of uric acid in the blood, which can result from certain foods, alcohol, or dehydration. To avoid flare-ups, it is important to limit foods that increase uric acid levels, such as red meat, shellfish, organ meats, sugary drinks, and alcohol, especially beer. A podiatrist can help manage gout by diagnosing flare-ups, providing anti-inflammatory treatments, and recommending lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments. In some cases, this type of doctor may prescribe medications to lower uric acid levels or prevent future attacks. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Soorena Sadri, DPM from FootWorx Active Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

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