Foot and heel blisters are fluid-filled sacs that form on the skin when it is subjected to friction or pressure. They are commonly caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes or engaging in activities that involve repetitive motion, such as walking or running. The friction causes the top layers of skin to separate, filling with fluid to protect the underlying tissue. Although blisters are usually not serious, they can be painful and may become infected if not cared for properly. To prevent foot blisters, it is essential to wear shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Using moisture-wicking socks can help reduce friction, while applying blister prevention products or tapes to vulnerable areas of the feet can offer added protection. Foot blisters can be uncomfortable, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed a foot or heel blister, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can treat infected blisters, and offer additional prevention methods.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often 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.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A plantar ulcer is an open sore that develops on the bottom of the foot, often due to high pressure or poor circulation. For people with diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, these ulcers can become a recurring issue, especially if they have had them before. Custom shoe orthotics can help reduce pressure on the feet, lowering the risk of these ulcers returning. Research shows that orthotics shaped to fit the foot and designed based on pressure points are more effective in preventing ulcer recurrence than standard orthotics. However, while these specialized orthotics can reduce ulcers, they do not necessarily prevent other types of foot lesions. If you have diabetes,  it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a personalized foot evaluation and directed treatment for you, which may include orthotics.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are common in children and young athletes, where the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can be hereditary or develop because of obesity, lack of muscle tone, or improper footwear. Symptoms often include foot pain, fatigue, and difficulty participating in sports or physical activities. Children may also complain of discomfort in their legs or knees due to altered gait mechanics from flat feet. Treatment typically starts with supportive footwear and custom orthotics to provide better arch support. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also help improve foot function. A podiatrist specializes in assessing and treating flat feet, offering personalized care and guidance for young athletes. If your child is experiencing symptoms of flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and create a tailored treatment plan to enhance your child's athletic performance.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe joint, causing the toe to angle toward the other toes. This deformity creates a noticeable lump on the side of the foot, often leading to redness, swelling, and tenderness surrounding the affected area. Bunions can cause a dull ache or sharp pain, especially when wearing tight shoes. Diagnosis is typically straightforward. A podiatrist will assess the foot’s shape and may use X-rays to confirm the degree of misalignment and rule out other conditions, such as arthritis or gout, which can cause similar symptoms. Treatment varies based on severity. Mild cases may be managed with wider shoes, padding, and custom orthotics. In more advanced cases, surgery may be recommended to realign the joint and correct the deformity. If you have a bunion that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to get appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Bensalem, Pennsylvania, Port Richmond, Philadelphia, and Hamilton, New Jersey . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.