Pregnancy places added stress on the body, especially for those who spend long hours standing or walking at work. Increased weight, hormonal changes, and fluid retention can contribute to foot pain, swelling, and fatigue. Many pregnant women notice aching in the arches, heels, or ankles as the day progresses, along with a feeling of heaviness in the legs. Wearing supportive, well-cushioned footwear and taking short seated breaks when possible can help reduce strain. Gentle stretching, elevating the feet after work, and staying hydrated may also ease discomfort and improve circulation. Compression socks can further help manage swelling during long shifts. Paying attention to posture and avoiding prolonged standing in one position is important. If foot pain, swelling, or discomfort becomes persistent or severe, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and care.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Harold Koehler, DPM from University Foot & Ankle and Holly Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our practitioner will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows or presses into the surrounding skin instead of resting above it, creating irritation, and, in some cases, a break in the skin. Mild cases may cause redness, tenderness, and slight swelling. As the condition worsens, moderate ingrown toenails can lead to increased pain, drainage, and discomfort in wearing closed-toe shoes. Severe or infected cases may include pus, warmth, and overgrown tissue along the nail border. Some people develop chronic ingrown toenails due to nail shape, repeated pressure, or injury. Treatment depends on severity. Early care includes warm soaks, keeping the area clean, and reducing pressure with proper footwear. A podiatrist may trim or lift the nail or place a small support. For persistent or severe cases, a simple in-office procedure can remove part of the nail and prevent regrowth. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle and Holly Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels develop when the skin on the back of the foot becomes dry, thick, and less flexible, eventually splitting under pressure. These splits can be tender, unsightly, and sometimes deep enough to cause bleeding or infection. Restoring comfort begins with softening the skin so it can heal. Warm water soaks help loosen the outer layers, and applying a rich, emollient cream afterward locks in moisture. Regular use of products that gently break down thickened skin can also improve texture over time. Wearing supportive footwear with closed backs helps reduce pulling on the skin and prevents further cracking. Keeping socks on after moisturizing encourages better absorption and protects healing tissue. Because deeper fissures can lead to complications, especially for individuals with diabetes or circulation concerns, any persistent or painful cracking deserves attention. If your cracked heels are not improving or feel increasingly uncomfortable, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper treatment and guidance.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Harold Koehler, DPM from University Foot & Ankle and Holly Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Paying attention to your feet can help catch problems early and keep you comfortable. Start by looking at your feet each day. Check for color changes, swelling, cracks, or areas that feel warm or tender. Notice any thickened nails or changes in shape. Use a mirror, if needed, to see the bottoms. Clean your feet with mild soap and warm water, then dry them well, especially between the toes. Apply moisturizer to prevent dryness, but avoid the spaces between toes. Trim nails straight across and wear well-fitting shoes that do not rub or pinch. Additionally, replace worn footwear and choose socks that keep feet dry. Staying active can support circulation and overall foot health. If you notice ongoing changes or have foot discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate care plan.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact Harold Koehler, DPM from University Foot & Ankle and Holly Foot & Ankle Specialist. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.