The fifth metatarsal is the long bone on the outer edge of the foot that connects to the little toe. Fractures in this bone are common and often occur from twisting the foot, direct impact, or overuse. There are two main types of fractures in this area. An avulsion fracture happens when a small piece of bone is pulled off by a tendon or ligament. A Jones fracture is more serious and occurs further along the bone, often requiring more time to heal. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Immediate care includes rest, elevation, and avoiding pressure on the foot. Some cases heal with wearing supportive footwear, while others may need a cast or even surgery. If you suspect you have injured the outside of your foot or feel sharp pain when bearing weight, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and recovery plan.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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 Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Gout is a form of arthritis that often affects the foot, especially the joint at the base of the big toe. It occurs when high levels of uric acid in the blood lead to the formation of sharp crystals that collect in the joints. A gout attack in the foot may cause sudden pain, swelling, redness, and warmth, typically beginning at night and worsening quickly. Over time, repeated attacks can lead to joint stiffness, and, in some cases, the development of hard lumps called tophi, which may damage nearby bone and cartilage. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through joint fluid analysis, imaging, or blood tests. Medical treatment may involve anti-inflammatory medication or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and swelling. In cases of chronic gout, long-term strategies to lower uric acid levels may be needed to prevent joint damage. If you have pain caused by gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.

Athletes depend on strong, stable feet and ankles, but these areas are often overlooked until an injury happens. Quick movements, jumping, and repetitive stress can all take a toll over time. Sprains, stress fractures, tendon issues and plantar fasciitis are common in active individuals. Wearing the right shoes, warming up properly, and cross-training can help reduce risk. Awareness also means paying attention to small aches before they become bigger problems. Swelling, bruising, or pain that does not go away should not be ignored. Preventive care, including strength and balance exercises, can help protect against future injury. Regular check-ins with a podiatrist can also catch issues early and improve performance. If you are an athlete experiencing discomfort or instability in your feet or ankles, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

Ankle sprains are among the most common musculoskeletal injuries, occurring when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear. There are different types of ankle sprains, categorized based on the severity of ligament damage and the direction of the injury. The most common type is an inversion sprain, where the foot rolls inward and strains the outer ligaments. Eversion sprains, which are less frequent, occur when the foot rolls outward. High ankle sprains involve the ligaments above the ankle joint and are typically more serious. Causes of ankle sprains include sudden twists, slips, or impacts during activities like sports, walking on uneven surfaces, or simply mis-stepping. If you have suffered an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately examine the injury and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.