Many people experience foot problems that affect daily comfort and mobility. Athlete's foot is a fungal infection caused by moisture and poor hygiene, leading to itching and peeling skin. Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, often from wearing ill-fitting shoes or inherited foot structure. Corns develop from repeated pressure or friction and can become painful over time. Additionally, plantar fasciitis results from inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, often linked to overuse or poor arch support. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose these conditions, provide effective treatment, and offer guidance on prevention. If you have foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan.
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)
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, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tophi are firm, swollen deposits that form under the skin when uric acid crystals collect around joints, most commonly in the feet, ankles, or toes. These growths develop over time in people with long-standing gout, a condition in which uric acid builds up in the blood and forms sharp crystals in the joints. The most common locations for tophi are the big toe joint, the heel, and the Achilles tendon. Factors that contribute to tophi buildup include persistent high uric acid levels, delayed treatment, and repeated gout attacks. In the early stages of gout, tophi are not usually present. However, if gout progresses over many years without proper care, these deposits may develop and begin to interfere with joint movement, causing pain and stiffness. In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove large tophi that restrict mobility or damage surrounding tissue. If you have symptoms of tophi buildup associated with gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
If you're suffering from an ankle fracture, professional attention shouldn't wait. Fractures may worsen over time and can make completing everyday activities incredibly difficult. See your specialist for treatment and guidance through the healing process.
Flat feet can have a significant impact on posture, movement, and stability, especially in females. The arch of the foot plays a key role in absorbing shock and distributing weight. When the arch collapses, it can affect balance, reduce agility, and place additional strain on core muscles, leading to fatigue and instability. Symptoms may include foot pain, swelling, and difficulty with physical activities. Risk factors include genetics, pregnancy, and obesity. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend supportive footwear, and assign exercises that improve strength and alignment. If you have flat feet and notice persistent foot discomfort or instability, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for help in restoring function and improving overall movement.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Are Flat Feet?
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, ILand Whiting, IN. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
