Ankle swelling can occur even in the absence of an injury and may be a sign of an underlying health condition. One common cause is poor circulation, which can lead to fluid buildup in the lower extremities. Prolonged sitting or standing, especially for long periods, can also result in ankle swelling. Certain medical conditions, such as heart, liver, or kidney disease, can impair the body's ability to regulate fluid, causing swelling in the ankles and other parts of the body. Additionally, high blood pressure or varicose veins can contribute to fluid retention and swelling in the ankles. Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or menstruation, can also lead to ankle swelling due to changes in fluid balance. Additionally, medications, such as those for high blood pressure or diabetes, may have side effects that result in swollen ankles. If ankle swelling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot surgery may be necessary for anyone dealing with painful or persistent foot conditions. One common procedure is hammertoe surgery, which corrects the abnormal bending of the toes, restoring their proper alignment and alleviating pain. Heel surgery is another option, particularly for conditions like heel spurs or plantar fasciitis, aimed at reducing pain and inflammation. Metatarsal surgery addresses issues with the bones in the ball of the foot, such as in cases of bunions or fractures. Neuroma surgery may be required for individuals with Morton’s neuroma, a condition where a thickened nerve causes pain in the ball of the foot. Additionally, tendon surgery can be performed to repair or release tendons that may be causing discomfort or limited mobility. If you have persistent foot pain or chronic foot issues, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine whether foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar heel pain becomes increasingly common in middle age and older adults due to years of wear and tear on the feet. The plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue supporting the arch, loses elasticity over time, making it more prone to microtears and inflammation. Conditions like plantar fasciitis and heel spurs often develop, leading to sharp, stabbing pain, especially during the first steps in the morning. Age-related changes such as reduced fat padding in the heel, decreased flexibility, and weakened foot muscles contribute to the problem. Standing for long periods of time during the day, excessive walking, or wearing unsupportive shoes can worsen symptoms. Maintaining foot health through wearing proper footwear, stretching, and orthotic support can help alleviate discomfort. If you have heel pain that persists or interferes with daily movement, it is suggested that you seek professional evaluation and treatment from a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM of Health One Podiatry. 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 contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Selecting the right running shoes for your intended terrain is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. For road running, choose lightweight shoes with adequate cushioning to absorb impact on hard, flat surfaces. Look for breathable materials and a snug fit to prevent blisters during longer runs. Trail running requires sturdier shoes with rugged soles for better grip on uneven, rocky, or muddy terrain. Waterproof or water-resistant materials can keep your feet dry in wet conditions. For treadmill running, focus on shoes with shock absorption and flexibility to handle the repetitive motion. Always consider your foot type, such as flat feet or high arches, when choosing shoes to ensure proper support and alignment. Worn or inappropriate shoes can lead to discomfort or injury. For expert guidance on choosing the right running shoes for yourself, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to ensure your footwear matches your running needs.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. It occurs when the body produces too much uric acid or does not excrete enough through urine. Symptoms include sudden, intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected joint, typically during the night. Gout attacks can feel excruciating, making even the lightest touch unbearable. Treatment for gout involves medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs called NSAIDs, colchicine, or corticosteroids to reduce pain and inflammation. Long-term management may include medications to lower uric acid levels and lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol intake and eating a purine-free diet. A podiatrist can help diagnose gout, manage flare-ups, and provide advice on footwear and exercises to reduce strain on affected joints. If you are experiencing symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedle an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment and management.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Patricia Mcilrath, DPM from Health One Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Reading and Rittenhouse, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.