Swelling in the feet and ankles can result from various conditions, including pitting edema, where pressure leaves a visible indentation, or lymphedema, caused by poor lymphatic drainage. Pregnancy can also lead to fluid retention due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on veins. These symptoms may signal underlying issues, including vein insufficiency, heart problems, or infections. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of swelling, provide supportive care, and recommend compression therapy, or footwear changes. If you notice persistent or painful swelling in your lower limbs, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist to identify the cause and begin a treatment plan to improve your comfort, mobility, and overall foot health.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, are a type of mechanical foot pain that develop when the big toe shifts out of place over time. This change causes a bony bump to form at the base of the big toe, leading to discomfort and difficulty fitting into regular shoes. The pain is often made worse by standing or walking for long periods, as pressure on the joint increases. Several factors can contribute to bunion development, including inherited foot structure, wearing narrow or tight shoes, and certain foot conditions like flat feet. As the bunion grows larger, it may lead to swelling, stiffness, or even difficulty moving the big toe. Using supportive footwear and wearing custom orthotics can help ease discomfort in the early stages. If the bunion worsens, surgery may be considered. It is suggested you visit a podiatrist to discuss relief and treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rock climbers often experience foot injuries due to intense pressure, wearing tight footwear, and repetitive strain. Common injuries include stress fractures, tendonitis, sprains, and bruised toenails. Symptoms can range from sharp pain and swelling to numbness or reduced mobility. Risk factors include poorly fitting climbing shoes, overuse, and inadequate rest between climbs. The unique demands of climbing can lead to chronic foot issues, if not addressed early. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, recommend supportive footwear, provide targeted treatments, and create a recovery plan to prevent recurrence. If you are a rock climber experiencing persistent foot pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist to ensure your feet stay strong and ready for your next climb.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop from repeated pressure or friction. They are often caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, abnormal gait, or underlying foot deformities. Corns typically appear on the top or sides of toes and may look like small, raised bumps with a hard center. While common symptoms include tenderness and discomfort during walking, untreated corns can dig deeper into the skin, causing intense pain, inflammation, and even ulceration, especially in people with diabetes or poor circulation. Some corns may become infected, leading to redness, swelling, and drainage. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose and safely remove corns without risking further damage to the skin. They also address the root cause, whether it is improper footwear, structural imbalances, or walking patterns. Custom orthotics, padding, and footwear advice can help prevent recurrence and relieve pressure points. If you have developed a painful corn, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate relief solutions.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Spartan Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Battle Creek and Marshall, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.