Items filtered by date: May 2025

Swollen feet are a common concern and can result from a variety of underlying causes. One frequent cause is edema, which is the accumulation of fluid in the tissues. This may occur due to prolonged standing or sitting, particularly in warm weather or during travel. Medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver disease can also contribute to fluid retention. Injury, infection, or inflammation in the feet or ankles may lead to localized swelling. Certain medications, including those for blood pressure or diabetes, may have side effects that include swelling. Pregnancy can also cause fluid buildup due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins. Identifying the cause of swelling is important for effective treatment. Swollen feet can be uncomfortable, and may signify health issues. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine if it is from an underlying health issue, and offer effective treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Ali Davis, DPM of The Foot Clinic. 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 office located in Overland Park, KS . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a rare inherited disorder that affects the peripheral nerves, which are responsible for controlling muscles and relaying sensory information. This condition gradually damages the nerves, often leading to muscle weakness and decreased sensation in the feet and lower legs. People with Charcot-Marie-Tooth may develop high arches, curled toes, and an abnormal gait due to the weakening of foot and leg muscles. Over time, the condition can result in balance issues, foot deformities, and difficulty walking. Symptoms often begin in childhood or early adulthood and  typically progress slowly. While there is no cure, treatment options like custom orthotics and supportive footwear can help manage discomfort and improve mobility for those living with this lifelong condition. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Ali Davis, DPM of The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the feet, even from small cuts or pressure points. High blood sugar affects blood flow and nerve health, which means injuries may go unnoticed and heal slowly. Common issues include dry skin, numbness, tingling, and sores that do not heal. Without proper care, these problems can lead to infection or more serious complications. Checking your feet daily, wearing well-fitting shoes, and keeping skin moisturized can help prevent trouble. Regular visits to a podiatrist are also important to catch problems early. Even if your feet feel fine, changes can happen quickly. If you have diabetes and notice redness, swelling, or a sore that is not getting better, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

The foot contains many small muscles, called intrinsic foot muscles, that help support the arch, control movement, and keep the foot stable during walking or running. Newer studies suggest that training these muscles can improve foot strength and function, especially in people with flat feet, foot pain, or balance issues. Simple exercises like toe curls, towel scrunches, or trying to spread the toes apart can help activate and strengthen these muscles. Over time, this kind of training may reduce strain on larger muscles and improve how the foot absorbs impact. It may also help with posture and reduce the risk of injury during activity. Although research is still growing, early findings are encouraging. If you experience foot fatigue, arch problems, or feel unsteady on your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Ali Davis, DPM from The Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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