Swollen feet and ankles happen when extra fluid collects in tissues around the lower legs. Mild swelling may develop after a long day, but persistent or sudden swelling deserves attention. Common symptoms include puffiness, tight skin, and shoes that feel unusually snug. Swelling can affect one foot or both feet. The location, timing, and severity can help identify the underlying cause and guide appropriate care.

Standing for long periods is a common cause because gravity encourages fluid to collect in the lower legs. A high-sodium diet may also contribute because excess sodium can cause the body to retain water. Pregnancy can increase swelling as hormonal changes and pressure from the growing uterus affect circulation. Obesity also may place extra stress on the veins and joints. Risk factors include prolonged standing, frequent salty foods, and excess weight.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing symptoms, health history, and activity level. The feet and ankles are examined for tenderness, skin changes, and circulation concerns. Depending on the findings, additional testing may be recommended to identify the cause. Treatment may include reducing sodium, elevating the legs, or using compression when appropriate. The podiatrist also treats related foot problems that may increase discomfort.

Getting the cause of swollen feet and ankles identified can help prevent the problem from becoming a lasting concern. Mild swelling linked to standing may improve with rest and elevation, while swelling related to pregnancy or weight may require closer monitoring. Sudden swelling, severe pain, or breathing difficulty requires prompt medical attention. A podiatrist can help determine whether your symptoms are related to a foot condition or another concern during your normal daily activities. If you have unexplained swollen feet and ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Jason Bell, DPM of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . 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 Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form beneath the outer layer of skin. On the feet, they frequently develop when repeated friction damages the skin. Shoes that rub against the heel or toes can create enough friction to cause a blister. Heat, burns, or certain skin reactions can also lead to blister formation. Most blisters contain clear fluid, although some contain blood after a stronger injury. A blister can feel tender or painful, especially when pressure from a shoe repeatedly irritates the affected area.

Foot blisters can vary in size and appearance. The skin around a blister can become red and sore. A blister can break open, leaving the sensitive skin underneath exposed. This can increase the risk of infection. Signs of infection include increasing pain, redness, or swelling. Pus can also develop in an infected blister. People with diabetes need to pay particular attention to blisters on their feet because reduced sensation can make them harder to notice. Problems with blood flow can also interfere with healing. Repeated blisters can indicate that pressure or friction is affecting the same area of the foot.

A podiatrist can examine a painful blister and determine whether infection or another foot problem is present. The evaluation can also identify pressure points and areas where shoes are repeatedly rubbing against the skin. A podiatrist can recommend ways to reduce pressure and protect the affected area while it heals. Care can also address foot structure or movement patterns that contribute to repeated friction. Blisters that are very painful, keep returning, or show signs of infection deserve prompt evaluation. Patients with diabetes should be especially careful about changes in the skin of their feet. If you have developed foot blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist effective relief and prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Jason Bell, DPM of Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when arteries become narrowed or blocked, reducing blood flow to the legs and feet. A common cause is atherosclerosis, which develops when plaque builds up inside the arteries and impedes blood flow. Adequate circulation supplies the feet with oxygen and nutrients needed for healthy tissue and normal healing. When circulation is reduced, minor cuts, blisters, or sores may take longer to heal and can become more difficult to manage. PAD may progress slowly, and some people have few noticeable symptoms at first. Recognizing possible warning signs can encourage timely evaluation and care.

Common symptoms of PAD include aching, cramping, or pain in the legs or feet while walking that improves with rest. Other signs may include numbness, weakness, and skin discoloration. More advanced PAD can cause persistent foot pain, including discomfort that becomes worse at night. Reduced circulation may also interfere with wound healing. Persistent sores, cuts, or blisters can increase the risk of infection and should receive prompt attention.

Smoking is a major risk factor for PAD because tobacco can damage blood vessels and interfere with circulation. Diabetes, high blood pressure, and a family history of vascular disease can also increase risk. PAD may significantly affect foot health by contributing to cold feet, skin changes, and a greater risk of infection. People with diabetes may face additional concerns when circulation problems occur with reduced sensation.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for signs of poor circulation and recommend additional testing when necessary. Evaluation may include checking skin temperature, color, and existing wounds. Treatment focuses on addressing risk factors, managing underlying conditions, and protecting the feet from injury. If you have symptoms of PAD, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate evaluation and appropriate treatment recommendations.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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

Flat feet are a condition in which the arches along the inside of the feet appear low or collapsed while standing. Many children with flat feet do not require aggressive treatment, especially when the condition is painless and does not interfere with normal activity. Conservative management focuses on improving comfort, reducing strain, and supporting healthy foot function as a child grows. Some children benefit from wearing supportive shoes that provide better stability during walking, running, and sports. Others may respond well to stretching exercises that improve flexibility in the feet and legs, particularly when tight muscles contribute to discomfort. Custom orthotics, which are inserts designed to support foot alignment, may also help relieve fatigue or pain in certain cases. Activity modification and monitoring over time can be important when symptoms appear during growth periods. A podiatrist can evaluate how the child walks, determine whether the flat feet are contributing to symptoms, and recommend treatment based on the child’s specific needs. If your child has persistent foot pain, fatigue, or difficulty with activity, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . 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 office located in Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.