Working in food service often requires standing and walking on hard floors for long hours, which can strain the feet and ankles. Without proper footwear, this constant pressure can lead to heel pain, arch discomfort, and inflammation of the plantar fascia, the ligament that supports the foot’s arch. Shoes designed for food service should have firm midsoles, closed toes and heels, and slip-resistant soles to help prevent falls on slick surfaces. Footwear with poor structure or loose straps can cause instability and increase the risk of injury. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, check for pressure points, and prescribe custom insoles to improve alignment, cushioning, and overall comfort during long shifts. Properly fitted shoes and supportive insoles can make a significant difference in reducing foot fatigue and preventing long-term problems. If you have foot pain from standing at work, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoes develop when one or more toe joints bend abnormally, causing the toe to curl downward instead of lying flat. Over time, this imbalance can make it painful to wear shoes or walk comfortably. Genetics, tight footwear, high heels, or muscle imbalance often contribute to the problem, which may start as flexible and later become rigid. Early treatment can help prevent progression and reduce discomfort. Conservative options include wearing shoes with roomy toe boxes, using custom orthotics, and performing gentle toe stretches to restore flexibility. Padding or splints can also ease pressure on the affected joints. In more advanced cases, a podiatrist may recommend minimally invasive surgery to realign the toe and restore natural movement. If your toes feel stiff, sore, or bent out of shape, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss effective treatment options.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As children grow, their feet and legs constantly change, sometimes leading to alignment problems such as inward or outward turning or flattened arches. These issues can result from differences in bone growth, muscle tightness, or ligament flexibility. Most mild cases improve with age, but some may cause pain, uneven gait, or frequent tripping, if not corrected. A podiatrist can determine whether the condition is part of normal development or needs treatment. Wearing supportive shoes, gentle stretching, and specially designed orthotics can help realign the feet and encourage healthy movement. In certain situations, targeted exercises or braces may be used to guide proper positioning as a child continues to grow. If you notice your child walking unevenly, stumbling often, or showing signs of discomfort, it is suggested that you have their feet evaluated by a podiatrist to ensure healthy development and alignment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As one ages, osteoarthritis can affect the joints of the feet and ankles, gradually wearing down the cartilage that allows smooth, pain-free movement. As the cushioning thins, bones begin to rub together, leading to soreness, stiffness, and swelling. These symptoms often appear in the midfoot, big toe, or ankle, making walking or standing uncomfortable. Over time, the loss of flexibility can interfere with daily activities and balance. While osteoarthritis cannot be reversed, proper treatment can greatly reduce pain and improve function. A podiatrist can pinpoint which joints are affected and provide solutions such as custom orthotics, footwear guidance, and advanced therapies to ease discomfort. Addressing symptoms early helps preserve mobility and prevent further joint damage. If your feet feel stiff or achy and movement has become more difficult, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care and long-term comfort.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.