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Swollen ankles, also known as edema, occur when excess fluid builds up in the tissues of the lower legs and feet. This condition can develop gradually or suddenly and may affect one or both ankles. While mild swelling can result from long periods of standing or sitting, persistent or severe swelling may indicate an underlying health concern. Understanding the causes and symptoms is important for identifying when medical attention is needed.

Common symptoms of swollen ankles include visible puffiness, tight or stretched skin, and discomfort when walking or standing. In some cases, the skin may appear shiny or leave an indentation when pressed. Swelling may also be accompanied by warmth, redness, or pain, especially if infection is present. Because swelling can affect mobility and balance, it is important to monitor changes and seek evaluation if symptoms worsen or do not improve.

Several conditions can contribute to swollen ankles. Kidney problems can lead to fluid retention because the body is unable to properly regulate fluid balance. Infections may cause localized swelling due to inflammation and increased blood flow to the affected area. Pregnancy is another common cause, as increased fluid volume and pressure from the growing uterus can affect circulation in the lower extremities. Risk factors include prolonged standing, obesity, and certain chronic medical conditions. Poor circulation and some medications may also increase the risk.

Recognizing the underlying cause of ankle swelling is essential for effective treatment and prevention. Early evaluation by a podiatrist can help identify whether the swelling is related to lifestyle factors or a more serious medical issue. Addressing symptoms promptly can improve comfort and reduce complications. If you have swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer effective relief and management solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Jed Wells, DPM of Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. 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 Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot stress fractures are hairline cracks in the bones of the foot that develop from repeated pressure rather than a single injury. These fractures frequently affect anyone whose feet absorb repeated impact from activities like running, basketball, tennis, and other high-impact sports. A stress fracture can be extremely small, but it can still cause significant pain. The condition often develops when activity levels are increased too quickly. The muscles and bones are not always prepared for this added demand. As a result, repeated force can create tiny cracks in the bone. Stress fractures commonly affect the metatarsals, which are the long bones in the middle of the foot. They can also occur in the heel bone or other areas that absorb repeated stress.

Symptoms usually begin gradually. Many people notice pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. As the fracture progresses, pain can become more persistent and interfere with daily movement. Other signs include swelling, tenderness, and discomfort when walking or standing. Some people develop a visible area of swelling near the injured bone. Risk factors include sudden increases in training intensity, changes in exercise routines, and foot structure problems that place extra pressure on certain bones. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support can also increase strain on the foot. Adolescents and people with weakened bone density face a higher risk.

A podiatrist can diagnose a stress fracture through a physical examination and a review of symptoms and activity levels. Because a stress fracture may not be visible on an X-ray, an MRI scan helps confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on allowing the bone to heal while reducing pressure on the injured area. A podiatrist may recommend a walking boot, protective bracing, or temporary activity modifications. In more severe cases, surgery is considered when the fracture does not heal properly. Untreated stress fractures can lead to chronic pain, stiffness, and more serious bone damage. If you have symptoms of a foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Corpus Christi, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Neuropathy is a medical condition that affects the peripheral nerves, most commonly in the feet and legs. It occurs when nerves become damaged and are unable to properly transmit signals between the brain and the body. This can lead to altered sensation, pain, or complete loss of feeling in the affected areas. Neuropathy is a significant concern in podiatry because it increases the risk of foot injuries going unnoticed, which can lead to more serious complications, such as neuropathic ulcers. These are open sores that develop due to repeated pressure or unnoticed trauma in areas with reduced sensation.

Symptoms of neuropathy in the feet often begin gradually and may include tingling, burning sensations, numbness, or sharp shooting pain. Some individuals experience a feeling of walking on pins and needles, while others may notice a complete loss of feeling in parts of the foot. Neuropathic ulcers develop when minor injuries, blisters, or pressure points go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. These ulcers commonly appear on weight-bearing areas, such as the ball of the foot or heel. Because pain signals are diminished, the condition may progress without immediate awareness, increasing the risk of infection.

Risk factors for neuropathy include diabetes, chronic alcohol use, vitamin deficiencies, certain infections, and long-term exposure to toxins. Diabetes is one of the leading causes, as elevated blood sugar levels can damage nerves. Individuals with poor circulation or a history of foot deformities are also at higher risk of developing neuropathic ulcers. Repetitive pressure, ill-fitting footwear, and prolonged standing can worsen the condition and contribute to skin breakdown. Without proper care, neuropathic ulcers can become infected and may lead to more serious complications.

The causes of neuropathy involve damage to the peripheral nerves, which may result from metabolic, infectious, or mechanical factors. When nerve function is impaired, the protective sensation in the feet is reduced, making it difficult to detect injuries. Neuropathic ulcers form when continuous pressure or friction is applied to an area without the natural pain response that would normally trigger protective action. This leads to skin breakdown and open wounds that require specialized care. If you have neuropathy or have developed an ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat neuropathy foot ulcers.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Cracked heels can range from a cosmetic concern to a source of significant discomfort. Also known as heel fissures, cracked heels develop when the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, thickened, and less flexible. As pressure is placed on the heel during standing and walking, the skin may split and form visible cracks. In mild cases, cracked heels may cause little discomfort. However, deeper cracks can lead to pain, especially during daily activities. Some individuals may also notice rough skin, flaking, or tenderness around the affected area. Because the feet support the body's weight throughout the day, heel problems can quickly interfere with comfort and mobility.

Several factors can contribute to cracked heels. Dry skin is one of the most common causes, but age, prolonged standing, and certain medical conditions may also increase the risk. Excess pressure on the heels can cause the skin to expand outward, making it more likely to crack. In some cases, the skin becomes so thick and dry that deeper fissures develop. These cracks can become painful and may make walking difficult. If left unaddressed, severe cracks can increase the risk of infection, particularly when the skin barrier is damaged. Early evaluation is important for identifying contributing factors and preventing the condition from worsening.

Podiatric care can help address cracked heels by evaluating the condition of the skin and identifying underlying causes. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the cracks and determine whether additional foot-related issues are contributing to the problem. Professional treatment may help reduce discomfort, improve skin health, and support normal foot function. Because cracked heels can become increasingly painful, seeking care before complications develop is often beneficial. Maintaining healthy feet is important for overall mobility and quality of life. If you have pain from cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Jed Wells, DPM from Jed Wells, DPM Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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