Items filtered by date: December 2021

Pregnant women often experience swelling, or edema, in their feet and ankles. This occurs due to the natural increase in fluids throughout the body during pregnancy. Gravity pulls fluids down, causing them to pool at the feet and ankles. Swelling usually begins between the 22nd and 27th weeks of pregnancy and persists until you give birth. It tends to increase in the evenings and during warm weather. Fluid retention in the feet can make it difficult to fit into your favorite shoes and may cause aches and pains. You may be able to alleviate swelling and some of its associated symptoms by resting your feet, doing gentle exercises like walking or swimming, wearing comfortable shoes, and staying hydrated. For more information about how to keep your feet and ankles healthy during pregnancy, please consult with a podiatrist.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from In Motion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Because heel pain can be both debilitating and affect your everyday routine, it is important to have a podiatrist assess your condition. There are a variety of different sources of heel pain, and the most common one is plantar fasciitis. This occurs when the plantar fascia, which is a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or torn. Other factors, such as arthritis, an Achilles tendon injury, a stress fracture, or fat pad atrophy, can all lead to heel pain as well. Common methods that a podiatrist may use to treat heel pain include ice, cortisone injections, anti-inflammatory drugs, orthotics, or even surgery. Patients who are struggling with heel pain should consult with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment plan. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of In Motion Foot and Ankle. Our doctors 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 Cypress and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.