Flat feet, also known as pes planus, is characterized by a collapse in the arch of the foot and a sagging of the heel. Babies are born with flat feet, but around 3 to 5 years of age, the arch begins to develop. There are three types of flat feet. Flexible flat feet impacts both feet, is typical in children, and does not cause pain. Flexible flat feet with a shortened Achilles tendon are rarely seen in kids and can cause pain, even disability. Rigid flat feet are least common and affects those with problems in the tarsal bones of the feet. This last type of flat feet is as likely to impact both feet as not and will often lead to disability and pain. If one suspects their child has flat feet and this has not resolved by around age 8 or if pain is involved, it is suggested that a podiatrist be consulted to examine the child’s feet and develop the best plan to treat the condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of 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 care needs.

The cartilage in a joint can become damaged and worn down from the condition known as osteoarthritis (OA). This can expose bones in the damaged joint and cause them to rub together. OA often attacks the first metatarsophalangeal joint (at the base of the big toe). A variety of symptoms may occur including pain, swelling, and limited mobility. The body may respond by creating more bone which can develop into bone spurs that cause visible bumps, calluses, or a bunion in the big toe. In time, the pain can become more of a burning sensation and stiffness may set in to the point where the big toe becomes fixed (hallux rigidus) and unbendable. Age can be a contributing factor to OA, as well as prior injuries, obesity, and a genetic predisposition to the disease. Losing weight, taking anti-inflammatories, and icing the area may provide some relief from OA in the big toe. A podiatrist can provide orthotics, braces or splints, recommend proper shoes, suggest specific exercises and even use injectable corticosteroids to relieve pain and reduce swelling. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove deteriorated cartilage or repair/replace a severely damaged joint. Contact a podiatrist if you believe OA is causing pain and swelling in your big toe joint. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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.

There is no mistaking an Achilles tendon injury when it occurs. This large tendon, located at the back of the calf, connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is responsible for pointing and flexing the feet, which is necessary in completing daily activities. An injury can happen from increasing running mileage and speed too quickly, which can cause severe pain and discomfort. Patients who have experienced this type of injury find it difficult to walk and are unable to bend their ankle. Mild relief may be found by taking anti-inflammatory medicine, and it may help to stretch the calves. Effective prevention techniques for an Achilles tendon injury includes strengthening the feet and calves as often as possible, which can help to ease the loading force on the tendon. This is accomplished by standing on a step, and lowering the heels one at a time, until a stretch is felt. An Achilles tendon injury often needs immediate attention, and it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can guide you toward the correct treatment techniques.

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.

Neuropathy is another word for nerve damage. There are many types of neuropathy with a variety of underlying causes. The most common type of neuropathy seen by podiatrists is diabetic neuropathy. As its name suggests, diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a result of diabetes. High blood sugar levels damage the nerves that supply the feet and lower limbs, leading to symptoms such as burning pain, numbness, tingling, a loss of sensation, muscle weakness, skin discoloration, and a higher chance of diabetic foot ulcers. Diabetic neuropathy can range from mild to severe but tends to worsen if steps aren’t taken to treat it. Your podiatrist can help you manage diabetic neuropathy by monitoring the health of your feet, prescribing orthotics, taking care of any injuries or foot wounds, and much more.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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.