Bunions are a common foot deformity that develops when the big toe joint gradually moves out of alignment, creating a visible bump along the side of the foot. The area may look swollen, red, or enlarged, and the big toe may angle toward the smaller toes. It often feels sore or stiff, with pain that worsens after long periods of walking or wearing tight shoes. Some people also notice limited joint movement. Causes include genetics, abnormal foot structure, arthritis, and footwear that crowds the toes. A podiatrist can help from the start by examining foot alignment, evaluating symptoms, and confirming the diagnosis with imaging as needed. Early treatment may include footwear changes, padding, orthotics, and inflammation management. Care can then progress into activity modification or surgical options when conservative measures are no longer effective. Early evaluation helps slow progression and improve comfort. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, 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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel and arch discomfort that can interfere with daily movement and comfort. Targeted exercises can help relieve pain by improving flexibility, strength, and support in the foot and lower leg. The gastrocnemius stretch is performed by standing with one leg behind the other and gently leaning forward to stretch the upper calf, which helps reduce strain on the heel. The soleus stretch is done in a similar position with the back knee slightly bent to target deeper calf muscles that affect walking mechanics. Additionally, a plantar fascia stretch can be performed by pulling the toes back toward the shin while seated to stretch the tissue along the bottom of the foot. Strengthening exercises such as the short foot exercise involve gently lifting the arch without curling the toes, while marble pick ups require grasping small objects with the toes to improve muscle control. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately plantar fasciitis, and guide you toward additional pain-relieving techniques.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns 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.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our practitioner to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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.

Diabetes can affect the feet in many ways, often developing slowly and without obvious symptoms, at first. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves, leading to diabetic neuropathy, which causes numbness, tingling, burning, or loss of sensation. When you cannot feel pain or pressure normally, small injuries may go unnoticed and become more serious. Diabetes also affects circulation, reducing blood flow to the feet and making it harder for cuts, blisters, or sores to heal. Dry, cracked skin, thickened nails, calluses, and changes in foot shape can also occur as the disease progresses. One of the most serious complications is the development of foot ulcers, which can become infected, if not treated promptly. Regular foot checks, wearing proper footwear, and early intervention from a podiatrist can help prevent complications and protect long-term foot health. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for foot checks on a regular basis.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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 blisters are fluid filled sacs that form when friction, pressure, and heat damage the outer layers of skin. They commonly develop from wearing tight boots or shoes that rub against the foot during walking or prolonged standing. Excess moisture from sweating can soften the skin, making it more vulnerable to friction and blister formation. Dirty feet may increase irritation and allow bacteria to weaken the skin barrier. Additionally, excess heat from activity or poorly ventilated footwear can further aggravate the skin and contribute to blister development. Symptoms often include redness, pain, swelling, and a pocket of clear fluid that makes walking uncomfortable. A podiatrist can help by safely treating blisters, preventing infection, and recommending proper footwear and hygiene practices. Guidance on moisture control and skin protection can reduce future problems. If foot blisters are affecting comfort or mobility, it is suggested that you schedule a podiatry appointment for professional care and effective prevention tips.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Paul Potach, DPM of Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.