Items filtered by date: January 2025

Swollen feet and ankles can result from a number of underlying causes. Often, the swelling arises when fluid accumulates in the tissues of the lower extremities, a condition called peripheral edema. Other triggers include injuries like sprains or fractures, which can lead to localized swelling in one foot or ankle. Kidney issues can impair the body's ability to eliminate excess fluid, which may result in swelling of the feet. Similarly, heart problems often lead to poor circulation, with fluid pooling in the feet and ankles, especially later in the day. Venous insufficiency, where veins struggle to return blood from the legs to the heart, can also lead to this problem. Infections, such as cellulitis, may cause sudden swelling, warmth, and redness. A podiatrist can identify the cause of swelling and provide appropriate treatment options, including compression therapy, guidance on managing chronic conditions, and preventive measures for injury-related swelling. If you have swollen feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM from Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain is often caused by excessive pressure, injury, or strain. The heel’s fatty cushion helps absorb impact during movement, but activities like running, jumping, or standing on hard surfaces can lead to pain. This is particularly true among older adults, pregnant women, and people who are overweight. Ill-fitting shoes and abnormal walking patterns can also contribute to heel pain. Plantar fasciitis, a common cause, occurs when the band of tissue along the sole becomes inflamed, often resulting in sharp pain under the heel. Heel spurs, which are bony growths on the heel bone, can develop from chronic strain and can be painful. In children, Sever’s disease is a frequent cause of heel pain due to stress on the heel bone's growth plate during physical activity. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms, identify the root cause, and provide effective treatment, including custom orthotics, supportive footwear, or other measures to alleviate pain and improve foot function. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out the cause, and receive the appropriate treatment.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Luis Esquerdo Cruz, DPM of Dr. Esquerdo Podiatry and Laser Center . Our doctor 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 office located in San Juan, PR . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.