Swelling of the feet happens when extra fluid collects in the tissues, causing the feet to look or feel larger than usual. It may affect one foot or both and can occur suddenly or develop gradually. Swollen feet are sometimes linked to an injury, standing for long periods, or pregnancy. Swelling also may signal a more serious health problem that needs prompt medical attention. Other symptoms include pain, stiffness, and redness. Warmth or difficulty wearing shoes comfortably are other factors. The swollen skin may be tight or shiny, causing reduced flexibility in the feet and ankles. Because swelling has many possible causes, it should not be ignored. A professional evaluation can help determine what is causing the problem and whether additional medical care is needed.

A podiatrist can examine your feet and ankles to identify the source of the swelling. This may include checking the joints, soft tissues, nerves, and circulation for signs of injury or disease. If needed, a podiatrist may recommend imaging studies or work with your primary healthcare provider to help identify the underlying cause. Treatment depends on the diagnosis and may include reducing inflammation, improving circulation, or addressing injuries and other foot conditions. The goal is to reduce pain, improve foot function, and protect long-term foot health. Early care may also help prevent swelling from affecting your balance, mobility, or ability to stay active.

Professional foot care is an important part of treating swollen feet and preventing further problems. A podiatrist can monitor your symptoms, recommend appropriate treatment, and help you return to normal activities as safely as possible. Prompt evaluation may also identify conditions that require additional medical attention before they become more serious. Whether swelling develops after an injury or without a clear cause, early diagnosis can lead to improved comfort and healthier movement for many patients. If you have swollen feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone that develop from repeated stress rather than a single injury. They are common in the feet because the foot bones absorb pressure with every step. Running, jumping, and other high-impact activities can place repeated force on the same area of bone. When the bone breaks down faster than the body can repair it, a stress fracture can occur. People who suddenly increase exercise levels are at greater risk. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support can also contribute to these injuries. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness that become worse with activity and improve with rest.

A podiatrist will examine the foot and ask about recent activities and symptoms. X-rays are often used first, although small stress fractures are not always visible. More detailed imaging, such as an MRI, can help identify tiny cracks in the bone. Once a stress fracture is confirmed, treatment focuses on protecting the injured area while the bone heals. This usually means limiting activities that place pressure on the foot. A walking boot, brace, or crutches can help reduce stress on the injured bone.

Healing a stress fracture requires patience because bone repair takes several weeks. Returning to sports or exercise too soon can delay healing and increase the risk of another fracture. A podiatrist can monitor recovery and determine when it is safe to resume normal activities. Treatment also includes identifying the cause of the injury. This can involve evaluating footwear, activity levels, and foot structure. Addressing these factors helps reduce the chance of future stress fractures. If you believe you have a sustained foot stress fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM from Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Teen athletes place repeated strain on their feet through running, jumping, pivoting, and high-impact training. While stress injuries are often associated with larger foot bones, smaller toe bones can also develop tiny cracks from overuse. Pain in the second toe, especially near its base, may be mistaken for a sprain, jammed toe, or simple soreness, which can delay proper diagnosis. Symptoms may include swelling, tenderness, pain with movement, or discomfort that worsens during sports activity. Because these injuries are less commonly suspected, they may be overlooked without a careful examination and appropriate imaging. Early diagnosis is important to prevent worsening injury and allow proper healing before returning to activity. Young athletes with persistent toe pain should not assume the issue is minor, especially when symptoms continue despite rest. If your teen has consistent foot or toe pain related to sports, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Heel pain develops when the structures supporting the heel become irritated or overworked. Activities such as walking, jumping, and running place constant pressure on the feet, which can lead to inflammation or small tissue injuries over time. It often appears as a sharp or dull ache in the bottom or back of the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after rest. Repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, and lack of proper support can all contribute to its development. While stretching may help maintain flexibility in the surrounding muscles, ongoing pain may signal a deeper issue. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause of heel pain, check foot alignment, and recommend targeted treatment options to improve comfort and movement. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.