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Causes of Swollen Feet

Swelling in the feet develops when fluid collects in the soft tissues surrounding the ankles and toes. A sprain or fracture often causes blood and fluid to move into the injured area as part of the healing process, possibly leading to puffiness and discomfort. Edema can also cause swollen feet, especially when fluid gathers around the lower legs due to gravity. Long hours of standing, sitting in one position, or wearing shoes with inadequate support can contribute to swelling. Medical conditions, such as gout in the big toe, an infection in the foot, or circulation problems, can also result in swollen feet. A podiatrist can examine the feet, identify the cause of the swelling, and recommend treatment to improve comfort and protect long-term foot function. If you notice abnormal swelling in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for expert guidance.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact One of our podiatrists of Diagnostic Foot Specialists. 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 Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Blisters and How to Protect Your Feet

Foot blisters are small pockets of fluid that form on the skin of the feet, often as a result of friction or pressure. They commonly develop from wearing poorly fitted shoes, engaging in extended physical activity, or sustaining burns such as a sunburn or frostbite. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and fluid filled bumps that can make walking uncomfortable. Risk factors include moisture, high activity levels, abnormal foot shape, and sensitive skin. While most blisters generally heal naturally, improper care can lead to infection or prolonged discomfort. A podiatrist can provide safe treatment, protect the skin, address underlying causes, and recommend footwear or other protective measures. If you develop frequent foot blisters, or if they become infected, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward effective relief and prevention solutions.
Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact One of our podiatrists of Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can 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.
Symptoms
(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)
- Bubble of skin filled with fluid
- Redness
- Moderate to severe pain
- Itching
Prevention & Treatment
In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout and the Big Toe

Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the body, forming sharp crystals in the joints. It most commonly affects the base of the big toe, causing sudden, intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth. Risk factors include excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, kidney disease, high-purine diets, and a family history of gout. Over time, repeated gout attacks can lead to joint damage and decreased mobility. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through an examination and imaging, provide strategies to reduce uric acid levels, recommend medication, and suggest lifestyle adjustments to prevent future flares. If you are experiencing sudden pain in your big toe, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to manage what might be going on.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact One of our podiatrists from Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors 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 Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
When Every Step Hurts

Plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain, occurs when the plantar fascia ligament along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated or inflamed. The heel may look normal or slightly swollen, but the pain is often most noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. It commonly feels sharp, stabbing, or aching at the heel, then may turn into a dull soreness as activity continues. Causes include overuse, tight calf muscles, flat feet or high arches, and unsupportive footwear. A podiatrist can help from the start by performing a thorough examination, reviewing activity history, and confirming the diagnosis with imaging when needed. Treatment often begins with pain and inflammation management, stretching guidance, footwear changes, or orthotics. Care may then progress into targeted exercises or night splints to promote healing and prevent recurrence. If you have ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact One of our podiatrists from Diagnostic Foot Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Houston, TX, Houston, TX, and Bryan, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
