Foot pain, though often dismissed as a temporary inconvenience, should never be ignored, as it can signify underlying issues that demand attention. Our feet, the foundation of our mobility, are intricate structures comprising bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments. Persistent pain may indicate conditions such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or tendinitis, which can worsen without intervention. Ignoring foot pain can lead to altered gait patterns, placing undue stress on other joints and potentially causing a domino effect of discomfort. Moreover, certain foot pain could be a symptom of systemic conditions like diabetes or circulatory issues, requiring timely medical intervention. Chronic foot pain may impact one's quality of life, hindering daily activities and diminishing overall well-being. By recognizing the significance of foot pain and seeking professional evaluation, individuals can safeguard the essential role their feet play in maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide you with effective relief 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.

A plantar fibroma affects the foot's plantar fascia, resulting in the development of nodules or fibrous tissue. Characterized by a thickening of the ligament that supports the arch, this disorder commonly manifests on the bottom of the foot, near the heel. In its early stages, a plantar fibroma may present as a small, painless nodule. As the condition progresses, these nodules can enlarge and become tender, causing discomfort with weight-bearing activities like walking or standing. Over time, the fibrous tissue may intertwine with the plantar fascia, potentially leading to a reduction in foot flexibility. The stages of a plantar fibroma vary, with some cases remaining relatively stable, while others may experience increased symptoms. Understanding the definition and progression of a plantar fibroma is essential for early recognition and intervention, enabling individuals to explore appropriate management strategies and maintain optimal foot health. If you have discomfort on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. 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.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

• Steroid injections
• Orthotics
• Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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.

Many people wonder whether it is acceptable to run in walking shoes. While walking shoes are designed for a different purpose than running shoes, the answer is not always a straightforward yes or no. Walking shoes are generally built with a focus on providing comfort, stability, and support during low-impact activities like walking. They often have less cushioning and flexibility compared to running shoes, which are designed to absorb the higher impact forces generated during running. For short, light jogging or occasional runs, walking shoes may suffice, especially if you do not experience discomfort or pain. However, if you plan to run regularly or for longer distances, investing in running-specific footwear is recommended. Running shoes offer the necessary cushioning, shock absorption, and flexibility designed to protect your feet and joints from the impact of running. Ultimately, choosing the right footwear depends on your activity level and goals. If you are serious about running, it is best to invest in a proper pair of running shoes to reduce the risk of injury and enhance your performance. If you would like additional information about walking and running shoes, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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.

Wearing flip-flops leaves your feet vulnerable to various infections, from bacteria to viruses. When your feet are exposed in public places, harmful organisms, such as staphylococcus, can cling to them. This bacterium can cause skin irritation, and in extreme cases, serious foot conditions may emerge. The risk increases if you have open sores or even small wounds from recent pedicures. Another concern is athlete's foot, which is a contagious fungal infection that causes itching. Walking with minimal footwear increases the chances of encountering and contracting this fungus. You also risk exposure to the virus responsible for warts, which is HPV, while wearing flip-flops. If you enjoy wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss similarly easy and comfortable footwear alternatives that are healthier for your feet.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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.

Soccer is a physically demanding sport where foot and ankle injuries are prevalent. Three common injuries in soccer are plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, and Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a tissue connecting the heel to the ball of the foot. It causes pain on the heel and along the arch of the foot and may result from playing on hard surfaces or due to anatomical factors like flat feet or weak muscles. Ankle sprains occur when the ankle ligaments are overstretched or torn. Symptoms can include pain, bruising, and swelling. These sprains are often caused by awkward landings or playing on uneven surfaces. Achilles tendonitis involves inflammation or rupture of the Achilles tendon, causing mild aches or stiffness in the leg. It can be triggered by a sudden change in exercise intensity or from wearing inappropriate footwear. If you or your child has an injured foot or ankle from playing soccer, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis, and treatment, in addition to learning about preventative measures that can be taken to make you more resilient against such injuries.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.