An ankle effusion refers to a buildup of fluid inside the joint that causes swelling, pain, and stiffness. The ankle can feel tight or sore when walking. Some people notice warmth or difficulty when moving the joint. Ankle effusion often develops after a sprain, a hard blow to the foot, or repeated stress from sports activities. It can also result from arthritis, infection, or inflammation caused by the immune system. A podiatrist can examine the ankle and order imaging tests, such as X-rays or scans, to look for hidden injuries like small fractures or torn tissue. Treatment focuses on reducing the swelling and improving comfort. Care includes anti-inflammatory medication, ankle bracing, and removing excess fluid from the joint. Patients are also guided on ways to protect the ankle to avoid swelling and joint damage. If you have a swollen ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors 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 O'Fallon, and New Baden, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the bottom of the foot after the skin is infected with the human papillomavirus, also called HPV. These warts often appear on weight-bearing areas, such as the heel or ball of the foot. They may feel like stepping on a pebble or rough surface while walking. The skin can look thickened or grainy, sometimes with tiny black dots that are clotted blood vessels inside the wart. Plantar warts may cause discomfort when pressure is applied and can spread, if left untreated. The virus commonly enters through small cuts or cracks in the skin. It is often picked up in warm, moist environments, such as locker rooms, pools, or shared showers. A podiatrist can identify whether the lesion is a wart or another skin condition and recommend the most effective treatment. Care may include topical medication, removal procedures, or other treatments to reduce pain and prevent spreading. If you have plantar warts, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in O'Fallon, and New Baden, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.