There are several bones in the ankle that can break from a foot injury. Falling is a common reason to incur a broken ankle, or if it suddenly rolls inward or outward. These types of actions can stretch the ankle joint beyond its normal range, and ligaments may tear. The symptoms that many people experience with a broken ankle can consist of immediate bruising and swelling, and it is extremely difficult to walk. Additional symptoms can include a numbing sensation, and bruising may gradually radiate to the entire foot. A crack, break, or chip in the ankle are considered to fall in the category of a broken ankle, and an X-ray is generally performed that can determine the extent of the injury. This is followed by wearing a protective boot or cast, which can help to complete daily activities. The recovery time for a broken ankle can take several weeks, and this timeframe may be increased if there are complications. If you have broken your ankle, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with the treatment method that is correct for you.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

Flip-flops are easy to wear. They are popular shoes to purchase in the summer months for their various colors and the ease of slipping them on to go to the beach. Despite their simplicity, frequently wearing this type of shoe may cause uncomfortable foot problems. The majority of flip-flops do not have an arch, which may lead to heel pain. The toes can also begin to hurt as they are constantly gripping the shoe while walking to keep it on the foot. Additionally, cracked heels can be common among people who wear flip-flops. This can be from the shoe having little or no cushioning and the foot can lose support from the lack of a strap. This may cause the calf muscles to work harder and the foot may strike the ground abnormally. If you would like to learn more about the pros and cons of wearing flip-flops, please consult a podiatrist who can accurately answer any questions you may have.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors 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 Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Corns can cause patients to have severe pain, despite their small size. They can develop as a result of excess friction, which generally happens from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. A common area where a corn can be found in the side of the pinky toe. The pain can be so severe, that larger shoes may need to be purchased to lessen its severity. Corns that form between the toes are called soft corns, as they are consistently moist from the sweat that is found there. Some patients have corns that form on top of the toes, and this may be from an existing bunion or hammertoe. Patients who have small corns may find mild relief when the foot is soaked in warm water, followed by using a pumice stone that can wear the dead skin away. For more severe corns, it is suggested that a podiatrist be contacted, who can prescribe medicine that may shrink it, or possibly trim it surgically. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Illinois . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most widespread afflictions of the foot that primarily affects the plantar fascia. It occurs when this part of the foot becomes aggravated and inflamed. Plantar fasciitis has an interesting history which may be helpful in knowing to learn more about this ailment. The condition was first described in the year 1812 by a man named Wood. Wood attributed the condition to tuberculosis at the time. Over the years, plantar fasciitis has gone by different names. For example, it has sometimes been called painful heel syndrome or subcalcaneal pain. As time progressed and the field of podiatry developed, modern science learned more about plantar fasciitis. Today, it is one of the most common conditions that modern podiatrists are trained in identifying and treating. If you believe that you may have plantar fasciitis, contact a podiatrist today.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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.