Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.
Swelling of the feet occurs when excess fluid builds up in the tissues, causing the feet to appear larger or feel tight and uncomfortable. This symptom may affect one foot or both and can develop suddenly or gradually. Foot swelling may result from standing for long periods, an injury, or an underlying medical condition that affects circulation or fluid balance. Pregnancy, arthritis, and vein disorders are also common causes. In some cases, swelling is temporary, while in others it may signal a more serious problem that requires medical attention. Because many conditions can contribute to swollen feet, a professional evaluation is important to determine the underlying cause. Early podiatry care may also help prevent complications and support better foot health.
Symptoms often depend on the reason for the swelling. Many people notice tightness, tenderness, or discomfort that makes walking more difficult. Others experience stiffness or skin that appears stretched and shiny because of the increased fluid. Shoes may suddenly feel tighter than usual, and normal movement may become uncomfortable. When swelling is related to an injury, pain or bruising may also be present. Persistent swelling should not be ignored because it can indicate problems involving the feet, ankles, or overall health. Identifying the cause early allows treatment to begin before symptoms become more severe and helps protect long-term mobility.
A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions that affect the feet and ankles, including swelling caused by injuries or structural problems. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates your symptoms, foot structure, and walking mechanics while looking for signs of underlying conditions that may be contributing to the swelling. Additional testing or coordination with another healthcare provider may be recommended when appropriate. Treatment focuses on reducing discomfort, improving foot function, and addressing the cause of the swelling whenever possible. If you are experiencing swollen feet, ongoing discomfort, or difficulty walking, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.
Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. 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:
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 Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a progressive infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. It typically begins when microscopic organisms enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. In the early stage, the infection may appear as a small white or yellow spot under the nail surface. At this point, symptoms are mild and often overlooked, with little to no discomfort. This stage can last several weeks to a few months, depending on hygiene, footwear, and immune response. Early identification is important because treatment is more effective before the infection spreads deeper into the nail.
As the condition progresses into the moderate stage, visible changes become more noticeable. The nail may thicken, discolor, and develop a brittle or crumbly texture. Yellow-brown staining and slight lifting of the nail from the nail bed are common. Mild discomfort may develop, especially while wearing shoes. This stage can persist for several months and is often when patients begin seeking care. Without treatment, the fungus continues to spread, making the nail harder to manage and increasing the risk of complications.
In the advanced stage, toenail fungus can cause significant nail deformity and discomfort. The nail may become severely thickened and dark in color. In some cases, the nail may partially detach from the nail bed or emit an unpleasant odor. Pain may occur with walking or pressure, especially in tight footwear. This stage may take a year or longer to fully develop and often requires more aggressive treatment. The infection can also spread to other nails or surrounding skin if not properly addressed.
Risk factors play a major role in fungal progression. Individuals with diabetes, weakened immune systems, or poor circulation are more susceptible. Wearing tight-fitting shoes, excessive sweating, and walking barefoot in communal areas increase exposure. Older adults are at higher risk due to slower nail growth and reduced immunity. Proper foot hygiene and early care can slow or prevent progression. If you notice changes in your toenails, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.
If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Symptoms
Treatment
If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.
Prevention
In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.
In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, especially between the toes. It is caused by dermatophyte fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments. This condition is highly contagious until treated with antifungal drugs, making early detection important. Athlete's foot can spread quickly through direct contact or by touching contaminated surfaces, which is why proper hygiene plays a critical role in prevention and recovery.
Symptoms of athlete’s foot often begin with itchy feet and may progress to redness, scaling, and peeling skin. Some individuals experience burning sensations, cracking, or discomfort when walking. In more advanced cases, blisters or sores may develop, increasing the risk of secondary infection. Symptoms tend to worsen in enclosed footwear where moisture is trapped, creating an ideal environment for fungal growth.
The infection spreads through shared surfaces such as locker room floors, public showers, and pool areas. It can also transfer through shared towels, shoes, and even contact with pets that carry fungal organisms. Wearing damp socks or tight shoes can further increase exposure and allow the fungus to grow. These factors make athlete's foot a persistent condition if not addressed properly.
Risk factors include excessive sweating, use of non-breathable footwear, and frequent exposure to communal areas. Individuals who are active or spend long hours in shoes are more susceptible. Keeping feet clean and dry is essential in reducing risk. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.
Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story
Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.
Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The ankle is a complex joint that supports body weight and helps with movement. Ankle pain can affect people of all ages, and can make everyday activities more difficult. Pain can develop suddenly after an injury or gradually from a condition affecting the joint, tendons, or ligaments. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones. Tendons connect muscles to bones and help control movement. Common causes of ankle pain include sprains, tendon irritation, and arthritis. Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and damage within a joint. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty moving the ankle. Some people also notice bruising, tenderness, or a feeling that the ankle is unstable while walking.
A podiatrist can determine the cause of ankle pain through a detailed examination. The location of the pain often provides important clues. Pain on the outside of the ankle can point to a ligament injury. Pain along the back of the ankle may involve the Achilles tendon. A podiatrist will evaluate swelling, joint movement, and stability. Diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, can help identify fractures, arthritis, or other structural problems. In some cases, advanced imaging may be needed to examine soft tissues. An accurate diagnosis is important because different ankle conditions require different forms of treatment.
Treatment depends on the source and severity of the pain. A podiatrist may recommend supportive devices, custom orthotics, or bracing to improve ankle function. Orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that help control foot and ankle movement. More serious injuries may require immobilization with a walking boot or cast. Conditions like severe arthritis or complex fractures sometimes require surgery. Prompt care can also help prevent additional strain on surrounding joints and tissues. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor 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:
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 Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
