Podiatry Blog | Podiatrist, Foot Doctor Sioux Falls, SD 57105

Swollen Feet and How to Reduce Discomfort

Tuesday, 13 January 2026

Swollen feet, also known as edema, occur when fluid accumulates in the tissues, causing puffiness and discomfort. Common causes include prolonged standing or sitting, high-sodium foods, processed meals, and certain medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver disease. Foods that contribute to water retention, including salty snacks, canned soups, and processed meats, can exacerbate swelling. Other factors such as pregnancy, medications, or circulation issues may also play a role. A podiatrist can evaluate the underlying cause, recommend lifestyle adjustments, provide supportive footwear or compression therapy, and create a plan to reduce swelling while protecting foot health. If your feet have become swollen and are uncomfortable, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM of Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. 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 Sioux Falls, SD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

How the Feet Work Together While Running

Tuesday, 06 January 2026

The feet play a vital role in running by absorbing impact, maintaining balance, and propelling the body forward with each stride. As the foot contacts the ground, it adapts to surface changes while providing stability through coordinated bone and muscle movement. Balance is essential, especially during the float phase when both feet briefly leave the ground. This float phase becomes longer as running speed increases, placing greater demands on strength, alignment, and control. Improper mechanics can lead to overuse injuries and reduced performance. A podiatrist can assess running gait, identify imbalances, and recommend custom orthotics, footwear guidance, and injury-prevention strategies to support efficient motion. If you have developed foot pain from running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?

Wednesday, 31 December 2025

Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!

Does My Child Have A Broken Toe?

Tuesday, 30 December 2025

If your child has stubbed their toe and you notice he or she is limping, it may be an indication of a broken toe. Some of the symptoms that are often associated with this condition may include severe pain, swelling, and the inability to put weight on the toe. After a proper diagnosis, which generally includes having an X-ray taken, proper treatment can begin. This can consist of taping the affected toe to the toe next to it, which is referred to as buddy taping. This method can give the fractured toe the stability that is needed as the healing process takes place. If the fracture is severe, it may be necessary to use a cane or crutches, which can help lessen the weight placed on the toe. If you think your child may have broken their toe, it is advised that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

Throbbing pain
Swelling
Bruising on the skin and toenail
The inability to move the toe
Toe appears crooked or disfigured
Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Morton’s Neuroma and How to Find Relief

Tuesday, 23 December 2025

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by thickening of the tissue surrounding a nerve between the toes. It often develops from repeated pressure on the forefoot and is linked to wearing tight shoes, having flat feet, bunions, or high foot arches. This pressure irritates the nerve and leads to symptoms such as toe cramping, burning sensations, or sharp pain between the third and fourth toes. Many people describe the feeling as walking on a pebble. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide custom padding or orthotics, recommend better footwear, and offer treatments that reduce inflammation and discomfort. If you have any of these symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM of Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.