Dr. Ling P. Chen MD
Swollen feet: Persistent swelling of one or both feet may be due to kidney, heart, or
Burning feet: Although it can have a number of causes, a burning sensation of the feet is
frequently caused by diminished circulation.
Contact Ling P. Chen:Heel Surgery
Two common conditions that can cause pain to the bottom of the heel are plantar fasciitis
and heel spur(s). Although there are many causes of heel pain in both children and adults,
most can be effectively treated without surgery. When chronic heel pain fails to respond
to conservative treatment, surgical care may be warranted.
Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of a fibrous band of tissue in the bottom of the foot
that extends from the heel bone to the toes. This tissue can become inflamed for many
reasons, most commonly from irritation by placing too much stress (such as excess
running and jumping) on the bottom of the foot.
Dr. Ling P. Chen
The advantage of any soft orthotic device is that it may be easily adjusted to changing
weight-bearing forces. The disadvantage is that it must be periodically replaced or
refurbished. It is particularly effective for arthritic and grossly deformed feet where there
is a loss of protective fatty tissue on the side of the foot. It is also widely used in the care
of the diabetic foot. Because it is compressible, the soft orthotic is usually bulkier and
may well require extra room in shoes or prescription footwear.
Dr. Ling P. Chen, MD:
Foot Health Tips
* Properly fitted shoes are essential; an astonishing number of people wear shoes that
don’t fit right, and cause serious foot problems.
* A shoe with a firm sole and soft upper is best for daily activities.
* Shop for shoes in the afternoon; feet tend to swell during the day.
* Walking is the best exercise for your feet.
* Pantyhose or stockings should be of the correct size and preferably free of seams.
* Do not wear constricting garters or tie your stockings in knots.
* Never cut corns and calluses with a razor, pocket knife, or other such instrument;
use over-the-counter foot products only with the advice of a podiatrist.
* Bathe your feet daily in lukewarm (not hot) water, using a mild soap, preferably one
containing moisturizers, or use a moisturizer separately. Test the water temperature with
* Trim or file your toenails straight across.
* Inspect your feet every day or have someone do this for you. If you notice any redness,
swelling, cracks in the skin, or sores, consult your podiatrist.
* Have your feet examined by a DPM at least twice a year.
Ling P. Chen
What Can You Do For Relief?
* Apply a commercial, nonmedicated bunion pad around the bony prominence.
* Wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box.
* If your bunion becomes inflamed and painful, apply ice packs several times a day to
* Avoid high-heeled shoes over two inches tall.
* See your podiatric physician if pain persists.
Ling P. Chen Info About Dr. Ling P. Chen, MD About Ling P. Chen