Swollen feet can develop for many reasons and may affect comfort and mobility throughout the day. Foot injuries such as sprains or strains can lead to localized swelling and tenderness. Edema, which is the buildup of fluid in the tissues, is another common cause and may be related to circulation issues or underlying health concerns. Lifestyle factors like sitting for long periods of time or standing all day can place added pressure on the feet. Pregnancy may also contribute due to increased fluid retention and changes in circulation. Risk factors include poor circulation, wearing improper footwear, and certain medical conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate the cause, recommend treatment, and provide guidance to reduce swelling. If your feet and ankles are consistently swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Foot and ankle pain while cycling is often related to bike setup and support. Achilles tendonitis can develop from the pedaling motion, especially when the saddle is set too high. This can lead to tightness and pain in the back of the ankle. Ankle discomfort may also occur in those with flat feet, which can affect stability during each pedal stroke. Foot pain is often linked to wearing shoes that lack proper support or riding in too high a gear. These factors increase pressure against the pedal and cause soreness or burning pain. Risk factors include repetitive motion, poor alignment, and improper equipment. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot mechanics and recommend supportive solutions. If cycling pain is limiting your rides, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions, enabling you to return to this popular activity.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, due to sudden twisting or rolling of the joint. A Grade One sprain involves mild stretching with slight pain and minimal swelling. Grade Two includes partial tearing with moderate pain, swelling. and difficulty walking, A Grade Three sprain is a complete tear that causes severe pain instability, and significant swelling. Common causes include sports injuries, uneven surfaces, and sudden changes in direction. Risk factors include weak muscles, previous sprains, and improper footwear. A podiatrist can assess the severity, provide treatment, and guide rehabilitation to restore strength and stability. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, often affecting the big toe. Common causes of ingrown toenails include tight-fitting shoes that crowd the toes, improper nail trimming, and injury to the toe. Naturally curved nails, as well as repeated pressure from walking or sports, can increase risk. Symptoms include pain along the nail edge, redness, swelling, and tenderness when pressure is applied. As the ingrown toenail worsens, the skin may become inflamed. Fluid or pus can form if bacteria enter the area. Some people notice slight bleeding or extra skin forming around the nail. A podiatrist can diagnose the severity of the condition, trim or remove the problem portion of the nail, and provide care to reduce infection and prevent recurrence. If you are experiencing pain from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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