Foot and ankle swelling can occur for various reasons, often related to lifestyle, health conditions, or prolonged periods of immobility. One common cause is being overweight, as excess body weight places additional pressure on the feet and ankles, leading to fluid retention and swelling. Age is another factor, as older individuals may experience reduced circulation, which can contribute to swelling in the lower extremities. Leg infections can also cause swelling, as the body’s immune response leads to inflammation in the affected areas. Prolonged periods of immobility, such as on long airplane flights, can reduce circulation and lead to fluid buildup in the feet and ankles. A sedentary lifestyle, in which an individual remains seated or inactive for long stretches, can further cause swelling by preventing proper blood flow. If you have swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you confer with 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 Edward Sharrer, DPM of Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist 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 office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Drop foot, sometimes called foot drop, occurs when the muscles responsible for lifting the front part of the foot become weakened or paralyzed, making it difficult to walk without dragging the toes. Drop foot often leads to changes in gait, such as lifting the knee higher to avoid tripping. Causes of drop foot include nerve damage in the leg or spine, diabetes, or strokes. Symptoms may also involve numbness in the foot, loss of sensation, or a noticeable limp. Treatment by a podiatrist focuses on improving mobility and preventing further complications. Ankle-foot orthoses, or AFOs, can stabilize the foot and ankle, keeping the foot in a neutral position to reduce the risk of falls. Functional electrical stimulation may also be used to activate the muscles, improving walking patterns. A podiatrist can assess the underlying cause of drop foot and provide solutions to improve mobility and function. If you have symptoms of drop foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in North Little Rock, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Surgery for lateral ankle sprains is considered when chronic instability persists despite non-surgical treatments. Repeated sprains can lead to ligament damage, causing ongoing instability and weakness in the ankle. Ankle surgery options focus on restoring stability and function. The modified Broström procedure is often used to repair damaged ligaments, while reconstruction with tendon grafts may be necessary for severe cases. Newer arthroscopic techniques provide a minimally invasive option with outcomes similar to traditional surgery. Addressing instability surgically can also help reduce the risk of long-term complications, such as post-traumatic osteoarthritis. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain to determine the extent of instability and recommend the most suitable surgical or non-surgical treatment. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for advice.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Edward Sharrer, DPM from Premier Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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