Pregnancy brings remarkable changes, and the feet often feel these shifts long before anything else. Extra weight, fluid retention, and hormonal changes can lead to swelling, soreness, and a wider foot shape. Some people notice that their arches feel flatter or that their shoes no longer offer the same support. These changes can also increase discomfort in the heels, ankles, and the balls of the feet. Simple steps like elevating the legs, choosing supportive footwear, and stretching gently can ease many symptoms, yet persistent pain should not be overlooked. A podiatrist can evaluate changes in gait, provide guidance on safe support options, and help reduce stress on the feet throughout pregnancy. If foot pain is interfering with daily comfort or mobility during this time, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for appropriate care.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on the soles of the feet due to the human papillomavirus entering the skin through tiny cuts or weak spots. They often appear as rough, grainy, or fleshy lesions and may have small black pinpoint dots within them. Symptoms can include tenderness while walking, a feeling similar to standing on a pebble, and discomfort that increases with pressure. Some warts grow inward beneath a thickened layer of skin, making them difficult to identify without professional guidance. A podiatrist can provide a clear diagnosis through careful examination and can recommend treatments such as topical medications or debridement depending on the severity and location of the wart. Professional care helps prevent spreading, reduces pain, and supports faster recovery. If you notice persistent foot pain or a suspicious growth on the sole of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and treatment options.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor 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 Newark, DE . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot wounds can be stubborn and difficult to heal, often requiring more than standard dressings and rest. Advances in care have introduced therapies that improve circulation, encourage new tissue growth, and reduce infection risk. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is one option that supplies extra oxygen to the tissues, helping speed up repair. Negative pressure wound therapy uses gentle suction to remove fluids and promote blood flow. Skin substitutes and growth factor treatments can also stimulate healing when traditional methods fall short. Each therapy is chosen based on the severity of the wound and the overall health of the patient. The goal is always to restore mobility, prevent infection, and avoid complications that could lead to surgery. If you are living with a complex diabetic foot wound, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to discuss the best treatment plan for you.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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

Ankle sprains are common injuries that occur when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn, often due to an awkward twist or roll of the foot. Common causes include sports activities, uneven terrain, or walking on unstable surfaces. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the ankle. To avoid ankle sprains, it is important to strengthen and stretch the calf muscles and surrounding areas. Regular exercises to improve flexibility and balance can help stabilize the ankle joint and prevent sudden twists. Wearing supportive footwear that fits well and provides adequate arch support is also key in reducing the risk of injury. Additionally, warming up before physical activity and avoiding walking on uneven surfaces can help prevent sprains. A podiatrist can offer personalized advice on strengthening exercises, footwear choices, and other strategies to protect the ankle. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Jason Bell, DPM from Advantage Foot and Ankle Center . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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