Swelling of the feet develops when excess fluid collects in the tissues, making the feet look larger and feel tight or uncomfortable. This condition can affect one foot or both feet, depending on the cause. Swelling sometimes follows an injury, but it can also result from standing or sitting for long periods, pregnancy, certain medicines, or medical conditions affecting circulation. Symptoms include puffiness, tight skin, aching, and difficulty fitting into shoes comfortably. Some people also notice stiffness or reduced movement in the feet and ankles. Persistent swelling deserves careful evaluation because it can signal an underlying problem that requires prompt attention. Identifying the cause is the first step toward choosing the most appropriate treatment. The pattern and timing of swelling also provide valuable clues about the underlying condition.

A podiatrist carefully evaluates the feet, ankles, walking pattern, and overall foot function to determine what is contributing to the swelling. The examination also checks for changes in skin condition, joint movement, and areas of tenderness. Treatment includes footwear recommendations, custom orthotics when appropriate, and care for conditions affecting the feet or ankles. A podiatrist can also identify whether swelling is related to abnormal foot mechanics or pressure. Improving foot function can reduce unnecessary stress on the joints and supporting tissues while walking. Regular evaluations help monitor changes in swelling and support healthier movement throughout daily activities.

Swelling of the feet should never be ignored when it develops suddenly, becomes severe, or occurs with pain, redness, or difficulty breathing because these symptoms can indicate a serious condition requiring immediate attention. Pregnancy, hot weather, and prolonged inactivity can also contribute to swelling, but persistent symptoms still deserve evaluation. Early podiatry care helps identify foot-related causes, improve comfort, and support better mobility. 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 one of our podiatrists of William Street Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Achilles tendinopathy is a common cause of pain near the back of the ankle and heel. The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role in walking, running, and pushing the foot off the ground. Achilles tendinopathy develops when the tendon becomes irritated or changes from repeated stress. Pain may occur where the tendon attaches to the heel or farther up the tendon. Common symptoms include aching, stiffness, and tenderness. The tendon may also become swollen or thickened as the condition progresses.

Achilles tendon pain often develops gradually rather than after a single injury. Repeated strain from running, jumping, or other demanding activities can place added stress on the tendon. Limited ankle movement and certain foot mechanics may also contribute. Pain may become more noticeable during activity or when pressure is placed on the affected area. As symptoms worsen, walking and other movements may become uncomfortable. Achilles tendinopathy differs from an Achilles tendon rupture, which involves a partial or complete tear. Sudden severe pain, weakness, or difficulty walking should receive prompt professional evaluation to determine whether a serious tendon injury has occurred.

A podiatrist can evaluate Achilles tendon pain and determine which factors may be contributing to the condition. An examination may include checking the tendon for tenderness or swelling and assessing foot and ankle movement. Imaging may be recommended when more information is needed. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the Achilles tendon problem. A podiatrist can develop an individualized treatment plan focused on reducing tendon stress, improving foot and ankle function, and supporting recovery. Professional care can also help address movement problems that may contribute to continued discomfort. If persistent Achilles pain, stiffness, or swelling is affecting your ability to walk comfortably, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of William Street Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages and activity levels. The ankle is a complex joint that supports body weight while allowing the foot to move in different directions. Pain may develop suddenly after an injury or appear gradually from repeated stress. Common symptoms include swelling, stiffness, and tenderness surrounding the joint. Some people also experience bruising, difficulty walking, or a feeling that the ankle is unstable. Ankle pain may result from sprains, fractures, or inflammation of the tendons that connect muscles to bones. Because many conditions can produce similar symptoms, a professional evaluation is important to identify the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Persistent ankle pain can interfere with everyday activities and limit mobility if left untreated. Ongoing discomfort may change the way a person walks, placing additional stress on the foot and lower leg. In some cases, such altered movement can increase strain on the knee or hip over time. A comprehensive podiatry examination helps evaluate the ankle's stability, range of motion, and overall function. Imaging studies may be recommended when a fracture or more serious injury is suspected. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the condition progresses or causes long-term problems that affect balance and daily movement.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating ankle pain while evaluating how the injury or condition affects the entire foot and ankle. Professional care focuses on relieving pain, restoring mobility, and improving joint function through an individualized treatment plan. Care is based on the cause of the symptoms and may be adjusted as healing progresses. Regular follow-up visits also help monitor recovery and reduce the risk of ongoing instability or recurring injuries. If you have persistent ankle pain, swelling, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s disease is a painful heel condition that affects growing children, especially those who participate in running and jumping activities. Despite its name, it is not an illness or an infection. It develops when repeated pulling on the growth plate, which is an area of developing bone near the end of a bone, irritates the back of the heel. Growth plates are weaker than mature bone, making them more vulnerable during periods of rapid growth. Symptoms include heel pain, tenderness, limping, and discomfort that becomes worse after sports or other physical activities. Some children also walk on their toes to avoid placing pressure on the painful heel. The condition usually affects children between 8 and 15 years of age and can involve one or both heels.

A podiatrist evaluates the child's foot structure, walking pattern, ankle movement, and heel tenderness to identify factors contributing to the condition. The examination also looks for tight muscles and abnormal foot mechanics that increase stress on the heel. Treatment includes custom orthotics when appropriate, footwear recommendations, and exercises that improve flexibility and strength. Wearing shoes that provide proper support can also reduce repeated stress on the heel during sports and everyday activities. Regular follow-up visits help monitor progress and adjust treatment as the child's feet continue to grow. Early podiatry care also supports comfortable movement and encourages a safe return to normal activities.

Although Sever’s disease can be painful, it does not cause permanent damage to the heel when properly managed. Symptoms usually improve once the growth plate matures and closes. Early evaluation helps reduce unnecessary strain on the heel and identify contributing factors before pain interferes with sports or daily life. Prompt podiatry care supports healthy foot development, improves comfort, and helps children stay active with greater confidence. If your child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from William Street Podiatry. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in William Street in New York, NY, Forest Hills, NY, and Broadway in New York, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.