Items filtered by date: May 2023

One of the functions of the feet is providing mobility and supporting the weight of the body. The feet are considered to be one of the most complex structures in the body, and are constructed of 26 bones, several muscles, tendons, and ligaments. There are numerous foot conditions which can develop from enduring an injury, or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. There are several types of bones that are found in each foot. These are referred to as the phalanges, which are the bones in the toes, and the metatarsals that are found within the flat part of the foot. All the foot bones work in synchronized harmony, and most people are unaware until there is foot pain. An injury can occur to parts of the foot other than the bones. A ligament is defined as a strong tissue that connects the bones together. An injured ligament may require a longer recovery time as a result of limited blood flow. If you would like to have additional knowledge about how the feet are constructed, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

If you have any concerns about your feet, 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.

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 offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A compressed or irritated growth that is found between the third and fourth toes can represent a foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma. It is considered to be benign, despite how painful it can be. Wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely can be a common cause for this condition to occur. High heels fit into this category, and women who frequently wear this type of shoe may be affected. People who are afflicted with this ailment often feel they have a small pebble in their shoe or sock, typically on the ball of the foot. This part of the foot is used for standing and walking, which can cause constant pain. Patients who notice the beginning signs of Morton’s neuroma may find temporary relief when better shoes are worn. For more severe cases, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with permanent relief solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . 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.

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.

The Achilles tendon is located in the back of the lower leg, and it connects the calf muscles to the heel. It is responsible for pointing and flexing the foot, which is done during routine activity. Having an Achilles tendon injury may cause difficulty in completing daily tasks. An injury can cause this tendon to partially or completely tear and often causes severe pain and discomfort. It can happen for various reasons, including increasing speed and distance too quickly while running and not stretching properly before running or jogging. The Achilles tendon may gradually weaken when shoes that are worn do not fit correctly or if some weight has been gained. Recovery can take several months for complete healing, and wearing supportive shoes may help to accelerate this. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can help you with the correct treatment techniques.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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.

Foot pain is a common problem that affects people all across the globe. There are many different types of foot pain that develop for various reasons. Pain between the third and fourth toes may indicate Morton’s neuroma. Morton's neuroma is a burning pain that occurs due to a compressed or irritated nerve. Having heel pain may be a sign of plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes and is found along the bottom of the foot. Itchy feet can be a symptom of athlete’s foot and can come from walking barefoot in public swimming pools, locker rooms, and similar areas. An Achilles tendon injury can cause debilitating pain from increasing speed and distance too quickly while running. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and offer the correct treatment methods.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Certain foot conditions can cause the toes of the feet to essentially overlap with, or cross over, the other toes. This can be problematic for a number of reasons. Importantly, overlapping toes may decrease balance and stability. It is also generally an unsightly foot condition. If you have overlapping toes, your shoes may not fit as well, particularly in the toe area. Sometimes, the foot condition known as hammertoe may result in overlapping toes. Hammertoe develops when a particular toe juts upward at a joint and then sharply downward. Since someone living with hammertoe does not have toes that point straight forward, they become more susceptible to developing overlapping toes. If you are someone that thinks you have hammertoe or overlapping toes, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today to address any foot problems you may have.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor 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 offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.