When an ingrown toenail keeps coming back or causes significant pain, treatment often moves beyond simple soaks and shoe changes. Partial nail avulsion is a common procedure where a podiatrist removes the offending edge to relieve pressure and allow the skin to heal. In some cases, a small amount of the nail root is treated with a chemical or laser to prevent regrowth in that section. For nails distorted by trauma or fungal infection, reconstructive techniques can restore a smoother edge and reduce future irritation. Persistent inflammation may be addressed with targeted medication to calm tissue and prevent infection. These approaches aim to correct the problem at its source rather than just relieve symptoms. If ingrown toenail discomfort, swelling, or infection continues despite initial care, a podiatrist can recommend the most effective option for lasting relief.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Illinois . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Compartment syndrome of the foot occurs when increased pressure within the muscle compartments of the foot restricts blood flow. The most common cause is high-energy trauma, like fractures from a fall or motor vehicle accident. Symptoms of compartment syndrome include intense pain, swelling, bruising, and sometimes numbness or tingling. The affected muscle compartments are surrounded by dense fibrous tissue, which can prevent proper circulation. If not treated promptly, this may result in muscle death and long-term foot dysfunction, including clawing of the toes. A podiatrist can assess the injury by performing a thorough clinical evaluation, and using pressure monitoring to confirm the diagnosis. If compartment syndrome is identified, this foot doctor may recommend surgery to relieve the pressure and restore circulation. Early intervention is critical to prevent severe complications. If you are experiencing this type of foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Muscle strains
• Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
• Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

• Bruising
• Inflammation/ Swelling
• Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, 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.

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 one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors 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 one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors 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.