Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that commonly affects the big toe, causing sudden, intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth. It is triggered by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often due to genetics, kidney issues, or diet. Foods high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, alcohol, especially beer, and sugary drinks, can raise uric acid levels and increase the risk of flare-ups. A gout attack may feel like your toe is on fire and too painful to touch. Over time, repeated episodes can damage the joint. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, managing flare-ups, and providing long-term strategies to prevent further joint damage. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle counseling, orthotics to relieve pressure, and coordination with your primary doctor for uric acid management. Gout can be painful, and may interfere with completing daily activities. If you have symptoms of gout,  it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

Losing weight can have a direct impact on the feet by reducing the pressure they endure with every step. Excess body weight places strain on the arches, toes, and heels, often increasing plantar pressure, particularly under the middle of the foot and the ball of the foot. When people lose weight, this pressure tends to decrease, which may help relieve discomfort or lower the risk of painful foot conditions. While walking patterns and stride length generally do not shift much with moderate weight loss, studies show that even a small reduction in weight can ease the pressure on certain areas of the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate how weight changes affect the feet, identify areas of concern, and provide orthotics or other treatments, as necessary. If you are experiencing pain associated with your weight, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. 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

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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.

Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems within the ankle joint. Through small incisions, a camera and specialized instruments allow a podiatric surgeon to view and repair damaged tissue. Common causes for this procedure include ankle pain, instability, cartilage damage, loose bone fragments, or scar tissue. Reasons to have ankle arthroscopy include unresolved pain, limited movement, or repeated injuries that do not improve with conservative care. A podiatrist can determine if this procedure is right for you by conducting a thorough evaluation and imaging studies. If ankle discomfort is affecting your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore whether arthroscopy can help restore mobility and comfort.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Ankle sprains are one of the most frequent injuries treated by podiatrists. They occur when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear, often due to a sudden twist, fall, or awkward step. Sports, uneven surfaces, or wearing unstable footwear are common causes. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. The ankle may appear swollen and tender to the touch, and walking can feel unstable or painful. Some sprains can mimic fractures, which is why professional evaluation is important. A podiatrist may recommend bracing, targeted exercises, or imaging tests to assess the severity. Severe sprains may require immobilization or even surgery. Up to 20 percent of ankle sprains can lead to chronic instability, if not properly treated, making early care essential. If you think you may have an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.