Swollen Feet and the Role of Edema

Swollen feet are a common concern and can result from a variety of underlying causes. One frequent cause is edema, which is the accumulation of fluid in the tissues. This may occur due to prolonged standing or sitting, particularly in warm weather or during travel. Medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver disease can also contribute to fluid retention. Injury, infection, or inflammation in the feet or ankles may lead to localized swelling. Certain medications, including those for blood pressure or diabetes, may have side effects that include swelling. Pregnancy can also cause fluid buildup due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins. Identifying the cause of swelling is important for effective treatment. Swollen feet can be uncomfortable, and may signify health issues. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine if it is from an underlying health issue, and offer effective treatment solutions.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact our doctors of Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. 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 feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Definition and Causes of an Ankle Fracture

An ankle fracture is a break in one or more bones that form the ankle joint. The ankle consists of the tibia, fibula, and talus. These bones come together to form a stable joint that allows the foot to move up, down, and side to side. Ligaments surrounding the joint help maintain its stability. An ankle fracture can range from a small crack to a complete break that may shift the bones out of place. Common causes include sudden twisting movements, falls, sports injuries, or car accidents. The injury may cause swelling, bruising, pain, and difficulty bearing weight. If you believe you have fractured your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat broken ankles.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors 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 offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Conditions Treated by Podiatrists

Podiatry is a branch of medicine focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions related to the feet, ankles, and lower legs. A podiatrist is a medical specialist trained to manage a wide range of issues affecting this part of the body. These can include common concerns, such as heel pain, bunions, and ingrown toenails, as well as more complex conditions like diabetic foot problems, nerve disorders, and structural deformities. Podiatrists also treat sports injuries, provide guidance on proper footwear, and help manage chronic conditions like arthritis or circulation issues. Their care plays a vital role in improving mobility, relieving pain, and supporting overall health. Regular visits to a podiatrist can help detect problems early and promote long-term foot and ankle wellness. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot conditions.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.
What Do Podiatrists Do?
On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:
- Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
- Use innovative methods to treat conditions
- Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
- Correct walking patterns and balance
- Provide individual consultations to patients
It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Managing the Discomfort of Flat Feet

Flat feet, also known as pes planus or fallen arches, occur when the arch of your foot collapses, remaining flat while standing or walking. This can cause discomfort, particularly after long periods of time on the feet. Flexible flatfoot is common in children and often persists into adulthood without symptoms. However, when pain develops, a podiatrist may recommend orthotic shoe inserts to support the arch and reduce strain. Rigid flatfoot, by contrast, is more serious and often linked to structural abnormalities. Rigid flatfoot can cause significant foot pain, poor balance, and limited mobility. For children with certain congenital deformities or teenagers with fused foot bones, surgery may be required to restore alignment and function. Adults who develop flat feet after trauma or from unknown causes may benefit from a combination of custom orthotics and surgery to correct dislocations or relieve pressure on the joints. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of your flatfoot in order to recommend an appropriate solution. If flat feet are causing your foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment options.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact our doctors from Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
- Pain around the heel or arch area
- Trouble standing on the tip toe
- Swelling around the inside of the ankle
- Flat look to one or both feet
- Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Oklahoma City and Yukon, OK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.