Swollen feet can be caused by several factors, often linked to underlying health conditions. One common cause is leaky veins, where blood flows backward due to weakened valves, leading to fluid buildup in the lower limbs. This condition, known as venous insufficiency, is often accompanied by discomfort and swelling. Another factor to consider is the side effects of medication. Certain drugs, such as those used for high blood pressure or diabetes, can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the feet. Dependent edema is another possible cause, particularly for individuals who spend prolonged periods standing or sitting. This condition results from gravity pulling fluid into the lower extremities. Lastly, inflammation due to injury, infection, or conditions like arthritis can cause swelling in the feet. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the reason is, and offer effective relief and treatment tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Scott Samera, DPM of Samera / Foot + Ankle. 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 contact our office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Treadmill running can contribute to foot, toe, and ankle injuries due to repetitive stress and strain. Common issues include plantar fasciitis, intermetatarsal neuromas, and Achilles tendonitis. These ailments are often caused by the repetitive motions of running or walking, especially on an incline. They may result in pain in the arch, ball of the foot, or along the back of the ankle. Improper footwear, excessive treadmill use, or pre-existing conditions like tight calf muscles can increase the risk of injury. A podiatrist can assess these conditions through a detailed examination and advanced diagnostic tools. This foot doctor can recommend effective treatments, such as orthotics, adjustments to treadmill routines, or specific footwear advice, to alleviate pain and prevent further issues. If you experience foot pain related to treadmill running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

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 Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. 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 Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Recovering from ankle surgery requires patience and proper care to ensure the best outcome. After the procedure, it is important to follow your podiatrist’s instructions closely to prevent complications and promote healing. In the first few days, rest is vital, and the foot should be elevated to reduce swelling. Ice can also help manage swelling and pain. Depending on the surgery, a cast or boot may be prescribed to immobilize the ankle and support the healing process. Specific stretches and exercises are often recommended once the initial healing phase is over, helping to restore strength, flexibility, and mobility. Full recovery can take several months to a year, depending on the severity of the injury and intricacy of the surgery. Throughout the recovery process, avoiding weight-bearing activities and carefully performing rehabilitation exercises are key to ensuring the ankle heals properly and that normal function is restored. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss whether ankle surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Scott Samera, DPM of Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lake City and Branford, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A tibialis posterior rupture is a significant injury involving the tendon that supports the arch of the foot and aids in stability during walking. This tendon is essential for proper foot movement and alignment. Ruptures are often caused by overuse, trauma, or degenerative changes, particularly in individuals with flat feet or those involved in repetitive, high-impact activities. Symptoms include pain along the inner ankle or foot, swelling, difficulty walking, and progressive flattening of the arch. Left untreated, the condition can lead to severe flatfoot deformity and impaired mobility. Diagnosis typically involves a clinical exam, imaging like an MRI scan, and functional assessments. Treatment options range from rest, bracing, and targeted exercises, to surgical repair for severe cases. Early intervention is essential for optimal recovery. If you suspect such a rupture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for evaluation and a tailored treatment plan.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Scott Samera, DPM from Samera / Foot + Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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