Swollen feet, a condition known as edema, is common among people with diabetes. Edema occurs when fluid builds up in the tissues, leading to puffiness, especially in the feet, ankles, and legs. Diabetes can contribute to edema due to poor circulation, nerve damage, or kidney problems, all of which make it harder for the body to regulate fluid properly. Symptoms of swollen feet include visible puffiness, tight or shiny skin, and discomfort. If left untreated, swelling can lead to complications, including infections or ulcers, especially in diabetic patients with reduced sensation in their feet. Treatment for edema typically involves elevating the feet, wearing compression socks, managing blood sugar levels, and limiting salt intake. In some cases, a podiatrist may recommend specific exercises or custom footwear to alleviate pressure. If you are experiencing swollen feet, it is suggested you schedule an appointment to see a podiatrist. Early intervention can prevent further complications and provide effective relief.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is caused by fungi that invade the nail bed, leading to discoloration, thickening, and even crumbling of the nail. Factors contributing to this infection include warm, moist environments, improper foot hygiene, and underlying health issues like diabetes or a weakened immune system. Symptoms often include yellow or brown discoloration, a foul odor, and discomfort in severe cases. Treatment options range from topical antifungal medications to oral prescriptions and, in persistent cases, laser therapy or nail removal. A podiatrist specializes in foot health and can accurately diagnose toenail fungus, recommend effective treatments, and provide advice on preventing future infections. If you suspect you have toenail fungus, consider scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist. Early intervention can help restore your nail health and prevent complications, allowing you to enjoy healthy, beautiful feet again.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat 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 Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. 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 our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a foot condition characterized by the abnormal bending of one or more toes, typically affecting the second, third, or fourth toes. This deformity often develops due to muscle imbalances, genetics, or wearing tight shoes that restrict toe movement. Over time, the affected toe bends at the middle joint, leading to discomfort. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. Individuals may also notice calluses or corns forming on the top of the bent toe or on the ball of the foot due to friction. Early relief options include wearing properly fitting shoes and using orthotic inserts, but persistent symptoms or worsening deformity may require medical intervention. A podiatrist may recommend targeted exercises, custom orthotics, or, in more severe cases, surgery to realign the toe. If you are experiencing symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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