There are numerous tendons, muscles, ligaments, and bones that are in each foot, and enduring an injury can cause foot pain. Discomfort that is felt on top of the foot may indicate that a stress fracture has occurred, or it may be gout, an arthritic condition. Additionally, It may indicate a bone infection has developed, which is known as osteomyelitis. These can be serious conditions, and it is suggested that a medical professional be consulted for evaluation and treatment. Some patients have foot pain as a result of the shoes that are worn, or from improperly warming up and cooling down before and after running. It is important for people who participate in sporting activities to increase speed and distance gradually, and this can allow the feet to become stronger. Foot pain can happen from falling, and practicing fall prevention techniques may help to prevent this. If you have foot pain for any reason, please contact a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat foot and ankle pain.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner 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.

Research has shown the majority of women enjoy buying shoes but are unhappy with the way their feet look. Obesity may be a reason for this, and the feet may change shape as a result of the extra weight they endure. Additionally, the feet may become bigger, and many people have not purchased larger shoes to accommodate their feet. This can cause various foot problems to develop, including corns, bunions, and hammertoes. There are several warning signs the feet and legs may give which may indicate there is excess weight. These can consist of calf pain, possibly leading to Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot condition among obese patients, and severe heel pain may accompany this condition. Gout is an ailment that affects the toes and can cause debilitating pain. This is known to be common among people who are overweight and may be connected to kidney disease. If you have foot conditions from being overweight and would like to know about effective treatment and prevention methods, please confer with a podiatrist.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned 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.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an inflammatory condition that usually affects the smaller joints and soft tissues in the hands and feet. Most people with RA experience problems and pain with this condition in their feet. Beyond joints, those with RA can experience changes to the blood and nerve supply, as well as develop skin and nail problems. With early diagnosis and more aggressive treatment, there is less foot and ankle damage and deformity to the feet and ankles from this condition than years ago. Footwear is a big issue for many suffering from this affliction. Good shoe structure and proper inserts are critical for people suffering from RA and can make a huge difference in mobility. If you have RA, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team as they are adept in all areas related to the health of one’s feet and can help you minimize the effects of RA on the feet and help you live more comfortably.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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 importance of practicing everyday foot care is crucial for people who have diabetes. This can begin by washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by inspecting the bottom of the feet by using a mirror. If a family member or caregiver is available, they can also help with this. Neuropathy is a common condition for diabetic patients to develop and this is a nerve disorder that causes the inability to feel existing cuts or scrapes on the feet. If these cuts do not receive the prompt medical attention they need, they can become infected and ultimately lead to a diabetic foot ulcer. It is beneficial to properly trim the toenails weekly as this may help to prevent a painful ingrown toenail from developing. Additionally, it is suggested that diabetic patients always wear shoes and socks as well as frequently elevate the legs to help increase circulation. Diabetic patients are urged to be under the care of a podiatrist who can treat and manage this condition.

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.