Foot problems are a common and serious concern for individuals with diabetes, often leading to complications like diabetic foot ulcers. Diabetes can cause nerve damage and poor blood circulation, making the feet more prone to injuries that might go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. The lack of feeling increases the risk of wounds, blisters, and ulcers, which can worsen without proper care. Diabetic foot ulcers can take a long time to heal and may lead to infections if not treated properly. Podiatrists play a vital role in managing diabetes related foot issues. They can perform necessary treatments, such as debridement to remove dead tissue, suggest appropriate footwear to alleviate pressure on affected areas, and provide wound care solutions. If you have a foot problem related to diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for regular monitoring and care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

Blisters on toes can arise from various causes, each affecting the foot differently. The most common trigger is friction from wearing ill-fitting shoes or repetitive rubbing, which can lead to clear blisters filled with fluid that cushions the damaged skin. Blood blisters occur when friction causes blood vessels to break beneath the skin, resulting in a darker, purplish blister. Infected blisters are more concerning, often developing from open sores or cuts that become contaminated with bacteria. These blisters may appear red, swollen, and filled with pus, indicating an infection. Wearing proper footwear, moisture-wicking socks, and prompt treatment of open blisters can help prevent these issues. If you notice blisters are frequently forming on your feet or toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective treatment and prevention techniques.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

Orthotics can significantly impact a runner's speed, comfort, and injury prevention. These custom-made shoe inserts are designed to support and align the feet, addressing issues like flat feet, high arches, or pronation problems. By providing proper foot alignment, orthotics can improve a runner's biomechanics, leading to a more efficient stride and potentially increasing speed. Comfort is another key benefit of orthotics, as they can help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reducing the risk of blisters, calluses, and other discomforts that can slow a runner down. Additionally, by correcting imbalances and providing necessary support, orthotics can prevent common running injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and stress fractures. For runners, the right orthotic can enhance performance by making each step more efficient and reducing the likelihood of injury. If you are a runner seeking to enhance your performance and prevent injuries, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to see if orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.

The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the ankle, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping, bearing the brunt of physical activity. The tendon has a relatively poor blood supply, making it more susceptible to injury and slower to heal. An Achilles tendon rupture occurs when the tendon tears, often during sudden, forceful movements like jumping or sprinting. This injury is most common in men aged 30 to 50, especially those who engage in intense physical activity without adequate warm-up. Symptoms include a sudden, sharp pain in the back of the ankle, often accompanied by a popping sound, followed by difficulty walking. While similar pain might be due to conditions like bursitis, a rupture is more serious. If untreated, it can lead to long-term disability. Diagnosis typically involves a physical exam and imaging tests. Treatment options range from immobilization with a cast to surgical repair, depending on the severity of the rupture. If you have sustained a painful injury to your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist as quickly as possible for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.

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 Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.