Pitting edema refers to a visible swelling of a specific area caused by fluid buildup in the tissues. When pressure is applied to the area, it leaves a pit in the skin. While pitting edema can occur throughout the body, the feet and ankles are often affected. Beyond swelling and pitting, this condition can also cause tingling or burning sensations, pain, stiffness, numbness, and cramps. There are many potential causes for pitting edema, including poor circulation, obesity, pregnancy, dehydration, and injuries. Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of the condition, but may involve elevating the feet, wearing compression socks, or taking certain medications. If you notice swelling in your feet or ankles, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

One of the first symptoms of the foot condition that is known as cuboid syndrome is pain and discomfort on the outside of the foot. Additionally, it may become difficult to walk, and the gait may become compromised. The cuboid bone resembles a pulley between specific tendons and the metatarsals. Cuboid syndrome is an inflammation of the cuboid bone, and can develop from a sudden injury, or abnormal foot structure. The symptoms may gradually be felt following an ankle sprain, or from repetitive overuse. Some patients have found mild relief when specific stretches are performed that may help to strengthen the affected part of the foot. If you have cuboid syndrome, please confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine what the correct treatment is for you.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.