During pregnancy, many women notice their feet feeling larger or wider. This change is often due to hormonal shifts that relax ligaments, causing the arches to flatten and feet to spread. In addition, weight gain and fluid retention can lead to swelling, discomfort, and balance changes. Common foot conditions during pregnancy include flat feet, overpronation, and heel pain. Some women may also develop varicose veins or experience leg cramps and aching feet. A podiatrist can provide supportive care through custom orthotics, footwear advice, and treatment for pain or swelling. If you are pregnant and experiencing foot changes or discomfort, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment tips. 

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 Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. 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 Waldorf, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often caused by long-term strain on foot muscles and ligaments. They are frequently associated with plantar fasciitis and may result from repeated stress, walking abnormalities, or footwear that lacks adequate support. Risk factors include obesity, flat feet, aging, and extended periods of standing or walking. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. A podiatrist can diagnose heel spurs using imaging and physical examination and may recommend treatments, such as custom orthotics, stretching exercises, or footwear changes. If heel pain is affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to find relief and regain comfort in your daily activities.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Waldorf, MD . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Wearing shoes that fit properly is essential for keeping feet comfortable and preventing injury. A well-fitting shoe allows enough space at the front so toes can move freely without rubbing. There should be about a thumb’s width between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. The heel should sit securely without slipping, and the sides should feel snug, but not tight. Arch support should match the shape of your foot to help with balance and reduce strain. Shoes that are too tight can increase the risk of blisters, bunions, or ingrown toenails, while shoes that are too loose may cause instability or falls. Measuring both feet and trying on shoes at the end of the day, when feet are slightly swollen, can help ensure the best fit. If you have developed foot pain from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or have concerns about your shoe fit or foot comfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert advice.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Gout is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most commonly the big toe. This condition can develop suddenly and is often triggered by dietary choices, genetics, or underlying health issues. Risk factors include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, diuretic use, obesity, and elevated triglyceride levels. Symptoms of gout include intense joint pain, redness, swelling, and warmth, often described as feeling like the toe is on fire. The joint may become so tender that even the weight of a bedsheet feels unbearable. A podiatrist plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing gout. Through physical examination, imaging, and lab tests, they can confirm the condition and offer relief through medication, dietary guidance, and preventive strategies to manage flare-ups and avoid joint damage. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Lauryn Smith-Winton, DPM from S.W. Podiatry Group. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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