Ankle pain can make it difficult to stay active and perform everyday tasks. The ankle is a complex joint made of bones, ligaments, and cartilage that work together to provide support and movement. Ligaments are strong bands of tissue that connect bones, while tendons connect muscles to bones. Pain can develop after an injury or from repeated stress placed on the joint. Arthritis, tendon injuries, and ligament damage also can lead to ankle pain. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can place extra strain on the ankle and surrounding tissues. Symptoms include pain, swelling, and tenderness. Some patients also notice bruising, weakness, or difficulty while walking. In more serious cases, the ankle can feel unstable or give way during activity.

A podiatrist begins by learning when the pain started and how it affects daily activities. The examination includes checking the ankle for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. The podiatrist also watches how the patient stands and walks to identify problems with balance or movement. Imaging tests, like X-rays, an ultrasound, or MRI scans, help identify broken bones, torn ligaments, or tendon injuries. Finding the exact cause of ankle pain is important because different conditions require different types of treatment. An accurate diagnosis also helps prevent the problem from becoming more severe and supports a safer return to normal activities.

Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the ankle pain. A podiatrist creates a care plan that improves movement while reducing stress on the injured joint. Treatment includes custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and provide better support. It also includes stretching and strengthening exercises to improve stability. Patients with severe ligament tears, advanced arthritis, or complex fractures may require surgery. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a  diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Clubfoot is a congenital foot deformity that is present at birth and affects the position and structure of a baby’s foot. In this condition, the foot appears twisted downward and inward, which can make it difficult for the sole to rest flat on the ground. Clubfoot can affect one or both feet and varies in severity. It is not caused by how the baby is positioned in the womb, but rather by abnormalities in the muscles, tendons, and bones that develop before birth. Early diagnosis is important because timely treatment can significantly improve long-term function and mobility.

The symptoms of clubfoot are often visible immediately after birth. The foot may appear smaller than normal, with the heel turned inward and the arch exaggerated. The calf muscles on the affected side may also be underdeveloped. While clubfoot itself is not painful in infants, it can lead to discomfort and difficulty walking if left untreated. As a child grows, untreated clubfoot may result in abnormal walking patterns, limited range of motion, and pressure-related skin issues.

The exact cause of clubfoot is not always known, but several risk factors have been identified. Genetics can play a role, especially if there is a family history of the condition. Environmental factors during pregnancy may also contribute. Clubfoot develops as the tendons connecting the muscles to the bones are shorter and tighter than normal, which pulls the foot into an abnormal position. Boys are more commonly affected than girls, and the condition may occur alongside other developmental concerns.

Treatment typically begins shortly after birth and often includes gentle stretching, casting, and bracing to gradually correct the foot’s position. In some cases, minor surgical procedures may be needed to release tight tendons. Early intervention leads to the best outcomes and helps children achieve normal or near normal mobility. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team who can contribute to achieving optimum results.

Congenital foot problems require 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.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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.

Foot nerve damage occurs when the nerves that carry signals between the brain and the foot become irritated, compressed, or injured. This condition can affect sensation, movement, and overall foot function. It commonly involves irritation of the nerves between the toes, especially near the third or fourth toes. What may begin as a mild ache can gradually progress into more noticeable discomfort. Without proper attention, nerve damage can interfere with daily activities, such as walking, standing, and wearing shoes comfortably.

Symptoms of foot nerve damage often develop slowly and may be easy to overlook at first. Many people report a dull ache that evolves into tingling or burning sensations in the forefoot. Pain may worsen while wearing tight shoes or after prolonged periods of standing. Some individuals feel as if there is a small object inside the shoe, even when nothing is present. Numbness or shooting pain may also occur as the condition progresses, indicating increased nerve involvement.

Several causes and risk factors contribute to nerve damage in the foot. Shoes that are tight or lack proper support can place excessive pressure on the nerves, leading to irritation. Poor foot posture and abnormal foot structure, such as high arches or flat feet, can also alter weight distribution and increase strain. Repetitive stress from walking or running may further aggravate the nerves. Over time, these factors can combine to create chronic discomfort and reduced mobility.

Preventing and managing foot nerve damage involves addressing the underlying causes. Wearing properly fitted, supportive shoes can reduce pressure on sensitive areas. Orthotic devices may help correct alignment and improve foot posture. Early evaluation allows for targeted treatment that can relieve symptoms and prevent progression. If you have foot pain that may be nerve-related, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate relief and treatment plan.

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.

Pain in the pinky toe can develop for several reasons. Because the pinky toe sits on the outside edge of the foot, it is more likely to be bumped, stubbed, or injured. A direct impact can cause a fracture, which is a broken bone, or a sprain, which is a stretched or torn ligament that connects bones. Repeated stress from running, jumping, or other high-impact activities can also lead to small cracks in the bone. Tight-fitting shoes are another common cause of pinky toe pain. A painful corn, which is an area of thickened skin caused by friction, can also develop on or around the pinky toe.

Structural problems in the foot may contribute to pinky toe pain. Some people develop a tailor's bunion, which is a bony bump that forms near the base of the pinky toe. This can become irritated when it rubs against footwear. Other toe shape changes can place extra pressure on the pinky toe and nearby joints. These problems can lead to redness, swelling, and discomfort while walking. In some cases, the toe can become partially or completely dislocated, meaning the bones move out of their normal position. This type of injury can cause severe pain, bruising, and difficulty putting weight on the foot.

A podiatrist can determine the cause of pinky toe pain through a physical examination, X-rays, and other imaging scans. Treatment depends on the source and severity of the problem. Care may include immobilization with a walking boot, protective padding, or custom orthotics to reduce pressure. A podiatrist may also recommend footwear changes to improve comfort and support. More severe injuries or structural problems may require surgery to restore proper alignment and relieve pain. If you have injured a pinky toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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 Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.