Diagnosing Achilles tendon ruptures involves a combination of clinical evaluation and imaging tests. The Achilles tendon, the largest tendon in the body, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. A rupture occurs when this tendon tears, often due to sudden or forceful movements during sports or activities that place excessive stress on the tendon. Symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture typically include a sudden, sharp pain in the back of the ankle or calf, accompanied by swelling and difficulty walking or standing on tiptoe. While this injury can happen to anyone, factors such as age, sports participation, and pre-existing foot problems like flat feet or tendonitis may increase the risk. Treatment options include conservative measures like immobilization to more advanced options, like surgical repair for severe cases. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Illinois . Our doctors 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.

Swollen feet, a discomfort many people experience, can stem from various underlying factors. Among these, poor circulation often plays a significant role. When blood flow becomes restricted, fluids can accumulate in the feet, causing them to swell. Another common culprit is prolonged standing or sitting, as this can lead to fluid retention in the lower extremities. Additionally, injuries such as sprains or fractures may trigger swelling as the body responds to the trauma. Certain conditions, including heart disease, kidney issues, and pregnancy, can also contribute to swollen feet due to fluid imbalances or hormonal changes. Moreover, lifestyle factors like excessive salt intake or wearing ill-fitting shoes can exacerbate the problem. Recognizing these potential triggers is essential in managing and preventing swollen feet. Consulting with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment is suggested for addressing the root cause of swelling and alleviating discomfort effectively.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Illinois . Our doctors 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 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.

Ensuring proper shoe fit begins with accurate measurements of your feet. Start by placing a piece of paper flat against the floor and standing on it with your heel against a wall. Using a pen or pencil, mark the longest point of your foot at the tip of your longest toe. Measure the distance from the edge of the paper to the mark to determine your heel-to-toe length. Next, find your heel-to-ball length by measuring from the back of your heel to the point where your foot arches at its widest. Finally, measure the width of your foot by placing a measuring tape or ruler across the widest part of your foot. By obtaining these three measurements consisting of heel-to-toe length, heel-to-ball length, and width, you can confidently select the right shoe size. This ensures optimal comfort and support for your feet. If you have developed foot conditions as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit properly, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment options, in addition to guiding you on how to obtain your proper shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, affects millions of individuals in the United States. It is caused by reduced blood flow due to plaque buildup in peripheral arteries. PAD often targets the lower extremities, seriously affecting the legs and feet. A common indicator of peripheral artery disease is intermittent muscle pain in the lower legs during activity that subsides with rest. Other signs include diminished toenail and leg hair growth, temperature disparities between feet and non-healing wounds. Treatment from a podiatrist is essential for alleviating symptoms and preventing further complications. Podiatrists can offer various treatment options for PAD, including custom orthotic devices and footwear modifications, and in severe cases, surgical intervention. Additionally, lifestyle adjustments, such as smoking cessation and managing underlying conditions like hypertension, are essential in PAD management. Early intervention not only improves quality of life but also reduces the risk of severe complications associated with PAD. If you experience symptoms of peripheral artery disease that is affecting your lower legs and feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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.

Ingrown toenails, a painful condition where the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, can be managed through a range of treatments depending on severity. Initially, a podiatrist may use conservative approaches, such as soaking the foot in warm water, gently placing cotton underneath the nail to help the nail grow above the skin, and using antibiotic creams. If these methods do not provide relief or if the ingrown toenail grows back, other treatments may be necessary. Podiatrists often perform a minor procedure where part of the nail is removed to prevent it from growing into the skin again. Podiatrists can also perform a minor surgical procedure that involves removing a portion of the nail along with the underlying tissue to reduce the nail's width and prevent future ingrown issues. These treatments aim to relieve pain, correct nail growth, and prevent infection. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you seek help from a podiatrist. 

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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 and ankle needs.

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle joint are stretched or torn, typically due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Different grades of ankle sprains vary depending on how much ligaments were damaged. Grade 1 sprains involve slight stretching of the ligaments with mild tenderness and swelling. Grade 2 sprains involve partial tearing of the ligaments, leading to moderate pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. Grade 3 sprains are the most severe, involving complete tearing or rupture of the ligaments, resulting in severe pain, swelling, instability, and sometimes a popping sound at the time of injury. Proper diagnosis and treatment by a podiatrist are important for managing ankle sprains effectively and preventing long-term complications like recurrent injuries. If you suspect an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle osteoarthritis, though less common than arthritis in the knees or hips, can still cause significant discomfort and impairment in affected individuals. This degenerative joint condition typically develops due to wear and tear over time, often as a result of previous injuries, such as ankle fractures or sprains, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Ankle osteoarthritis primarily affects older adults, although younger individuals with a history of joint trauma may also develop the condition. Conservative treatments for ankle osteoarthritis include lifestyle modifications, such as weight management and low-impact exercises, in addition to the use of supportive devices like braces or orthotics. Pain management techniques, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid injections, may provide mild relief. In more severe cases, surgical interventions, such as ankle fusion or replacement may be considered to alleviate pain and improve function. If you have ankle arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition and guide you toward a treatment plan that is tailored for you.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Wearing improper footwear, particularly shoes that lack adequate support or fit poorly, can significantly contribute to hind-foot pain. High heels and narrow-toed shoes, while fashionable, can place excessive stress on the structures of the hind-foot. The heel and ankle are two particularly susceptible areas for pain. Wearing these kinds of shoes can also lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and bursitis. These styles force the foot into an unnatural position, disrupting alignment and increasing pressure on the back of the foot. Stress on the foot over time not only leads to pain and discomfort but also can significantly affect mobility and quality of life. It is important to choose shoes with proper support, cushioning, and a fit that accommodates the natural shape of the foot to prevent hind-foot pain. Podiatrists often stress the importance of wearing shoes that complement one's lifestyle as well as provide the foundation for healthy foot posture and function. If you are experiencing pain in the back of the foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a full diagnosis and proper shoe recommendations to support your recovery. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors 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 Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.