Toenail fungus is a noticeable foot condition. A toenail that is dark and thick can be caused by a fungus that is known as dermatophytes. The nail can change shape, and the color may differ as a result of the area which is affected underneath the nail. Many times, the nail on the big toe is the first to start developing toenail fungus, and in severe cases, it may travel to other nails. There may be existing medical conditions that can lead to toenail fungus. These can include diabetes, problems with circulation, or a weakened immune system. If this condition is not treated promptly, the nails may begin to crumble, and the fungus may grow under the nail, and possibly ooze. Effective treatment may take months to completely heal the fungus, and it is important to stay consistent with applying creams, and taking medication. A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat this condition, and it is suggested that you schedule an appointment as soon as possible so the proper treatment can begin.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

People who have had athlete's foot are aware of the discomfort it can cause. The skin often becomes dry, red, and can itch too. It is considered to be a fungal infection and typically affects the soles of the feet and between the toes. It is a contagious infection and appropriate shoes are suggested to be worn while in public swimming areas, locker rooms, and shower room floors. This fungus lives in warm and moist environments including socks and shoes that are wet. There are three types of athlete's foot. A toe web infection can cause the skin to peel and crack between the third and fourth toes. Cracked skin on the heel can be referred to as a moccasin-type infection, and a blister on the sole of the foot is known as a vesicular type of infection. There are effective prevention techniques for athlete’s foot including keeping the feet clean and dry, refraining from sharing towels or shoes, and alternating the shoes worn daily. If you have been affected by athlete's foot, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best type of treatment is for you.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

A broken or fractured ankle happens when there is a partial or complete break in the ankle joint bones – the tibia, the fibula, and the talus bones. This can occur from excessive stress on the joint through heavy impact or twisting beyond the normal range of movement. The main symptom of a broken ankle is pain but swelling and bruising can also show at or around the site of the break. The ankle joint may be stiff and hard to move, and it might be hard for one with such a fracture to support their body weight. Recovery from a broken ankle will depend on how severe the break is and how well one follows the recommended care regimen. In most cases, recovery time is six to 12 weeks. If you think you have broken your ankle, visit a podiatrist to find out if there is an actual break and how it can best be treated.

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.

Custom orthotics are shoe or heel inserts prescribed by a doctor to help with various foot problems. Orthotics are used to correct foot deformities, help feet or ankles function better, and reduce risk of injury. Podiatrists can recommend custom orthotics as part of treatment plans for patients suffering from arthritis, bunions, flat feet or high arches, hammertoes, heel spurs, and plantar fasciitis. The type of material used for the orthotic determines how stiff it is. Rigid orthotics are usually made of a hard plastic or carbon fiber and provide more stability and support but may be less comfortable than softer orthotics. Softer orthotics are more flexible because they bend with your feet. Each type is appropriate for different foot conditions. Rigid orthotics are good for those who have plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. This type of orthotic takes more time to adjust to but over time becomes more comfortable. Soft orthotics are usually made of EVA (a more rubber-like material) and fit more closely against the foot than rigid orthotics. They are used for those who have heel pain as they mold to hurt areas and cushion sore spots. Soft orthotics are good for those who participate in high impact sports where the feet move quickly. Consulting with a podiatrist takes the decision of which type of orthotic is best for you out of your hands as they are experts in diagnosing foot problems and offering treatment options that fit your unique needs.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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 Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.

A bunion is considered to be a deformity where a bony lump that forms on the side of the big toe.  It happens as a result of the big toe becoming misaligned, and it can push against the side of the shoe. Many people develop a bunion from genetic reasons, or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. High heels fit into this category, and it is suggested to wear a shoe that has a lower heel and a bigger toe area. Some people have an abnormal foot shape, and this may also lead to developing a bunion. There are specific symptoms that are associated with a bunion. These can include pain that gets worse when tight shoes are worn and the big toe may become stiff. Additionally, the skin surrounding the joints in the big toe may be swollen and red. Severe bunions may require surgery for permanent removal and proper alignment of the joints. If you have a bunion, please confer with a podiatrist who can guide you toward the treatment that is correct for you. 

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• 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.

When your heels have developed cracked skin, they can feel unattractive, to say the least. The texture of your heels becomes rough, the skin is dry and thick, and occasionally, you will have a yellow or brown callus along the heel. You might notice cracks that can range from small to deep. Bad cracks can bleed, become inflamed, and even get infected. Those who have the back of their foot exposed in open-heeled shoes are said to be more prone to developing cracked heels. Sometimes cracked heels can signal an underlying condition such as diabetes or hypothyroidism. These illnesses can reduce sweat production and make feet drier. Some skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, can contribute to having cracked heels as well. At-home treatments include regular cleaning, drying, and moisturizing of the feet, and removing some of the dry skin on the heel with a pumice stone. Visit a podiatrist for an assessment of your cracked heels and for expert advice and treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.

Many people stopped wearing high heels during last year's lockdown. People who have chosen to resume wearing high heels as more social and workplaces open up may be experiencing foot pain. This may be a result of a shortened Achilles tendon and may take time to adjust when high heels are worn again. There are foot conditions that may develop as a result of frequently wearing high heels, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, and hammertoes. Additionally, ailments consisting of Morton’s neuroma and corns may cause pain from wearing high heels. The good news is that high heels can be worn as desired when the heels that are chosen are not higher than an inch and a half. This can give the appearance that is wanted and the feet can be protected at the same time. If you have questions about how high heels can affect the feet, please feel free to confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have. 

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.

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 one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors 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 and ankle needs.