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Swollen feet can make shoes feel tight and movement uncomfortable. This swelling, called edema, happens when extra fluid collects in tissues. It can affect the feet, ankles, or lower legs. Some people notice puffiness after sitting for long periods, especially while traveling. Others experience swelling that lasts longer. The skin may feel stretched or tight, and the legs can feel heavy. Swelling is not always caused by a foot injury. It can signal that fluid is having difficulty moving back through the body. Recognizing changes in foot size and comfort helps patients seek timely care.

Poor circulation in the veins is one possible cause of swollen feet. Veins contain small valves that help blood travel toward the heart. When these valves weaken, fluid can collect around the ankles. Another cause is lymphedema, which develops when the body's fluid drainage system cannot work properly. This system normally carries excess fluid away from tissues. Limited movement and excess body weight can increase the risk of persistent swelling. Swelling lasting longer than three months is considered chronic. Without proper treatment, ongoing swelling can lead to thickened skin and a greater risk of infection.

A podiatrist can examine swollen feet and assess changes in the skin, circulation, and foot shape. The evaluation helps identify possible causes and determine appropriate care. Depending on the findings, treatment may involve professionally fitted compression garments to help control fluid buildup. Compression is not appropriate for every patient, so circulation must be checked first.  A podiatrist can also recommend suitable shoes and assess how swelling affects walking. Sudden swelling in one leg, especially with pain or redness, requires urgent evaluation. Swelling accompanied by breathing difficulty requires emergency attention. If you have symptoms of swelling of the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken ankle occurs when one or more of the bones in the ankle joint fracture. This often affects the surrounding muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves that support normal movement. This injury commonly results from falls, sports accidents, twisting motions, or direct impact to the ankle. Damage to nearby soft tissues may also contribute to pain and instability during recovery. Symptoms include severe pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. Risk factors include high-impact activities, weak bones, poor balance, and previous ankle injuries. Recovery time for many ankle fractures is often about four to six weeks, depending on severity and treatment. There may be instruction about driving, manual work, and participating in contact sports . A podiatrist can evaluate the injury and guide appropriate recovery. If you have fractured your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Forefoot surgery refers to procedures performed on the front portion of the foot, including the toes and metatarsals. It may be suggested when pain or deformity does not improve with conservative treatment. Common reasons include bunions, hammertoes, and certain fractures. Symptoms may include persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking. A podiatrist evaluates the foot and may use X-rays before recommending treatment.

Several types of forefoot surgery are available, and the procedure depends on the condition being treated. Bunion surgery can realign the big toe and correct bone positioning. Hammertoe surgery may straighten a bent toe and improve function. Metatarsal procedures can address painful pressure beneath the forefoot. Surgery may also repair fractures or remove damaged tissue when appropriate. Risk factors include family history, foot structure, and previous injury. Poorly fitting shoes can aggravate forefoot problems. During surgery, the podiatrist uses a procedure selected for the diagnosis. Depending on the condition, this may involve making an incision, realigning a bone, or correcting soft tissue. Afterward, healing begins with protecting the surgical area and controlling swelling. The podiatrist may recommend a surgical shoe, limited weight-bearing, and elevation. Follow-up visits monitor healing and may include X-rays. Gradual return to normal activity is based on healing progress and medical guidance.

Forefoot surgery can provide an option when structural problems interfere with comfort and mobility. Recovery varies according to the procedure and health factors. Patients can support healing by following wound-care instructions, protecting the foot, and attending scheduled appointments. Your podiatrist will explain what to expect before surgery and provide aftercare instructions. If you have forefoot pain or a condition that may require surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this surgery is right for this.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Loren Hansen, DPM of Ankle & Foot Medical Center. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels develop when the skin around the heel becomes dry, thick, and less flexible. Pressure from walking can cause hardened skin to split, creating visible lines or deeper fissures. Symptoms may include roughness, flaking, and painful cracks. Environmental conditions often contribute. Heat and humidity can increase moisture loss, while cold weather can leave skin dry and irritated. Frequent bathing and harsh skin cleansers may remove natural oils, making the heel skin more likely to crack.

Risk factors include long periods of standing, walking, and wearing open-back shoes that allow the heel to spread. Age can also increase risk because skin gradually loses moisture and elasticity. Repeated exposure to hot water, dry indoor air, and aggressive scrubbing may worsen dryness. People with certain health conditions affecting skin or circulation can develop persistent cracked heels. Recognizing these factors can make prevention easier and help you address dryness before painful fissures develop.

A podiatrist will examine the heels, assess crack depth, and look for irritation or infection. Treatment may include professional removal of thickened skin and a moisturizing cream containing urea or another ingredient. Your podiatrist may also recommend supportive footwear that reduces heel pressure. If infection or inflammation is present, medication may be needed. You may be advised to avoid harsh cleansers, prolonged hot showers, and excessive scraping while keeping the heels moisturized regularly.

Preventing cracked heels requires consistent care and attention to environmental triggers. Use a gentle cleanser, apply moisturizer after bathing, and wear supportive shoes that protect the heel. During cold weather, protect your feet from dry air and avoid very hot water. Seek podiatric care if cracks become deep, painful, or difficult to heal. If you have painful cracked heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

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 Loren Hansen, DPM from Ankle & Foot Medical Center. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.