June 2023

Many women experience discomfort during their pregnancy, and their feet are often affected. Foot pain and swelling often happen in the second or third trimester, making it difficult to complete daily tasks. The noticeable weight gain may cause plantar fasciitis to develop, as a result of the extra weight the heel and arches have to bear. This is a condition that targets the plantar fascia and causes it to become torn or inflamed. Edema is the medical term for swollen feet and is common among pregnant women. It happens from the extra fluids that the body naturally produces to support the growing fetus, and may pool in the feet and ankles. Foot pain may be managed by performing daily stretches which can help to increase blood flow and diminish soreness. Swollen feet may be helped by reducing sodium intake, and drinking plenty of water daily. If your pregnancy causes you to have foot pain or swollen feet, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief options.

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 one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many diabetic patients realize the importance of maintaining proper foot care. This can be an overwhelming task to accomplish, and it is beneficial that small steps are taken that can simplify the process. It is important to engage in a gentle exercise program frequently, and this can help to improve blood circulation to the feet, as well as the overall body. Eating healthy foods that can comprise a healthy diet may help to monitor glucose levels, and existing nerve damage may be controlled. Stress can raise blood pressure, and elevating the feet at the end of the day may give them a needed rest and may help to reduce existing stress. Additionally, inspecting the feet daily can reveal any cuts and scrapes that have developed. Many people who are diabetic experience neuropathy, which is the inability to feel sensation in the feet. Family members or caregivers may help patients to see the soles of their feet by helping them to use a mirror. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Yakima and Ellensburg, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Dyshidrotic eczema, also referred to as dyshidrosis or pompholyx, is a skin condition that causes blisters to develop on the soles of the feet. Those afflicted with this ailment know how debilitating it can be. Blisters often appear as tiny red and raised bumps that merge to cover large areas of the feet. These blisters are often itchy, painful, and filled with fluid. They may ooze pus if they become infected. They can be brought on by genetics, an allergy, extreme weather conditions, or stress. The cause of this condition is unknown. This condition typically begins between 20 to 40 years of age. It can affect children, but it is rare. While the blisters can heal on their own in a month’s time, they can leave the skin of the feet dry and peeling. Red and itchy skin on the feet can be from other things, and if you have these symptoms, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

A hammertoe is a deformity that is usually found in the second toe when the middle joint rises upward and the tip of the toe bends downward. It is so named because the resulting toe resembles the shape of a claw hammer. While some people are genetically predisposed to the formation of a hammertoe, in many cases the main cause is improper footwear. Wearing shoes that are short, narrow, and too tight can contribute to hammertoe formation. When the toe is forced into a bent position, the muscles and tendons in that toe shorten. Women are more at risk of hammertoe because they are more likely to wear high heels with pointed, low, and narrow toe boxes. Children who wear shoes that are too small for them are also at greater risk. Other causes of hammertoe include Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease and rheumatoid arthritis. If you have a hammertoe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist, who is a foot doctor that is trained to deal with such maladies and can suggest appropriate treatment options.  

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Cascade Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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