Swollen feet and ankles are a common condition that can affect people of all ages. This condition, often referred to as edema, occurs when excess fluid builds up in the tissues of the lower extremities. It may develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the underlying cause. Common causes include prolonged standing or sitting, certain medications, and medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or circulatory issues. Understanding the source of swelling is important for proper care and prevention.

Symptoms of swollen feet may include visible puffiness, tight or shiny skin, and a feeling of heaviness in the lower legs. Some individuals experience discomfort, stiffness, or difficulty fitting into shoes. In more severe cases, pressing on the skin may leave a temporary indentation. Risk factors include aging, obesity and pregnancy, in addition to a sedentary lifestyle, and occupations that require long hours of standing. These factors can impair circulation and lead to fluid retention in the feet and ankles.

Medications such as blood pressure drugs, anti-inflammatory medications, and certain hormones can also contribute to swelling. Underlying medical conditions like venous insufficiency or lymphatic dysfunction may worsen symptoms. High-salt diets can increase fluid retention, placing additional strain on the body's ability to regulate fluid balance. Identifying these contributing factors allows for better management and can help reduce recurring swelling.

Managing swollen feet involves lifestyle changes such as elevating the legs, reducing salt intake, and staying active to improve circulation. Wearing supportive footwear and compression garments may also help control symptoms. Persistent or unexplained swelling should not be ignored, as it may indicate a more serious condition. If you have swollen feet or ankles that do not improve or continue to worsen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. 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:

• 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 our office located in Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A black toenail, medically referred to as a subungual hematoma, develops when blood becomes trapped beneath the nail due to repeated trauma. This condition is especially common among runners who engage in frequent or long-distance training. The constant forward motion of the foot inside a shoe causes the toes to repeatedly strike the front, leading to bruising under the nail. Over time, this repetitive impact can damage the nail bed and result in noticeable discoloration.

Early symptoms often include tenderness, pressure, and mild discomfort in the affected toe. As blood accumulates, the nail may turn shades of dark red, purple, or black. Some individuals experience a throbbing sensation, particularly after running or extended physical activity. In more severe cases, the nail may loosen or eventually fall off. This discomfort can interfere with daily activities and make it difficult to maintain a regular training routine without proper care.

The primary cause of a black toenail is repetitive stress linked to running mechanics. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially those that are too tight or too short, significantly increases pressure on the toes. Activities such as downhill running or sudden stops can force the toes forward, intensifying the impact. Additionally, poor running form and long training sessions without sufficient rest can further contribute to nail damage and irritation.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition, including long-distance running, wearing improper footwear, and inadequate nail maintenance. Preventive strategies include keeping toenails trimmed, wearing properly fitted running shoes, and choosing moisture-wicking socks to reduce friction. Maintaining proper foot alignment and gradually increasing training intensity can also help minimize stress on the toes. Toe issues can be uncomfortable, and often cause difficulty in running. If toe pain persists, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for appropriate treatment and prevention guidance.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Falls in older people are a major health concern that can lead to serious injury, reduced independence, and decreased quality of life.  Many falls are linked to reduced ankle strength, poor balance, and changes in foot structure that occur with aging. The ankles can be strengthened by practicing specific foot stretches, making the overall foot stronger. The feet and ankles play a critical role in stability, as they provide the base of support for movement and posture. When strength and coordination decline, the risk of falling increases, especially during walking or changes in direction.

Common symptoms associated with fall risk include unsteady walking, weakness in the lower legs, and difficulty maintaining balance when standing still. Some individuals may notice slower reaction time or a tendency to shuffle while walking. Ankle pain from falling may also develop, leading to further instability and hesitation during movement. These symptoms often create a cycle where reduced confidence leads to less activity, which then weakens muscles and increases fall risk over time. Early recognition of these signs is important for prevention.

Risk factors for falls in older adults include decreased muscle strength, joint stiffness, and poor flexibility. Conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, and vision changes can affect coordination and awareness of surroundings. Wearing improper footwear and uneven surfaces further increase the likelihood of losing balance. Weak ankles and limited range of motion reduce the ability to adjust quickly during movement. These factors combined make it more difficult to maintain stability, especially in challenging environments or during sudden movements.

Improving ankle strength and balance can significantly reduce fall risk. Simple exercises such as ankle circles, heel raises, and gentle stretches help improve flexibility and stability. Balance training, including standing on one foot or practicing controlled movements, enhances coordination and confidence. Wearing supportive footwear and having a safe home environment also play an important role in prevention. If you have injured your ankle from falling, or if balance concerns are present, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM from Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Foot blisters are one of the most common skin conditions that affect active individuals and others who spend long hours standing or walking. A blister forms when repeated friction or pressure causes the upper layer of skin to separate from the layers beneath it. Fluid then collects in the space as a protective response. Blisters frequently affect the heels, toes, and the ball of the foot, especially when footwear does not fit properly or when moisture builds up from sweat.

Early symptoms often include a hot spot on the skin, followed by redness and mild irritation. As the blister develops, it becomes a raised, fluid-filled area that may feel tender or painful. Walking can become uncomfortable, and pressure from shoes may worsen the irritation. If a blister breaks open, the underlying skin becomes exposed and more vulnerable to infection. Proper care involves keeping the area clean, dry, and covered with a sterile dressing. Avoid removing the top layer of skin, as it helps protect the healing tissue.

Several factors contribute to the development of foot blisters. Tight-fitting shoes, poorly designed insoles, and rough seams can create repeated friction. Moisture from sweating softens the skin and increases susceptibility to damage. Long-distance walking, running, and high-impact activities also raise the risk. In addition, burns, allergic reactions, and viral skin infections may cause blister-like symptoms, which require careful evaluation to determine the correct treatment approach.

Prevention plays a key role in maintaining foot health. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes and moisture-wicking socks can significantly reduce friction. Keeping feet dry and using protective padding in high-risk areas may help prevent recurrence. Paying attention to early warning signs allows for quick action before a blister worsens. If you have foot blisters, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and safe 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 Anthony Ricciardi Jr., DPM of Foot & Ankle Specialists of Nevada. Our Doctor 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 office located in Las Vegas, Nevada . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.