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ingrown toenail

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown Toenails, , , , ,

Housecall podiatrists in Chicago at Chicago Home Foot Care,  provide podiatrist services  to elderly, home bound and other patients  in the comfort of their own home.

An ingrown toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. Ingrown toenails most commonly affect the big toe, but they can occur on any toe.

Causes:

  1. Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
  2. Ill-Fitting Shoes: Tight or narrow shoes can put pressure on the toes and push the nail into the skin.
  3. Trauma: Stubbing your toe or injuring it can lead to the nail growing abnormally.
  4. Genetics: Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape of their nails or the structure of their toes.
  5. Poor Nail Care: Not keeping the feet clean and dry can increase the risk of infection around ingrown toenails.

Symptoms:

  • Pain and tenderness along the side of the nail.
  • Redness and swelling around the nail.
  • Inflammation and possible infection with pus.
  • Difficulty wearing shoes or walking comfortably.

Treatment and Prevention:

  1. Soaking: Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salt for about 15-20 minutes a few times a day. This can help soften the skin and reduce inflammation.
  2. Proper Nail Trimming: Trim your toenails straight across and avoid rounding the corners. Don’t cut them too short.
  3. Wear Proper Shoes: Choose shoes that fit well and have enough room for your toes to move comfortably.
  4. Avoid Trauma: Be cautious to avoid injuring your toes.
  5. Cotton Under the Nail: If the nail is just starting to ingrow, placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the edge can help lift it above the skin.
  6. See a Doctor: If the ingrown toenail is severe, causing intense pain, infection, or if you have diabetes or circulation problems, it’s important to consult a doctor. They might need to trim the nail or, in some cases, perform a minor surgical procedure to remove a portion of the nail.
  7. Antibiotics: If an infection is present, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Remember that if you have diabetes or other medical conditions that affect circulation or immunity, it’s especially important to contact housecall podiatrist in Chicago at 312-998-0974 promptly if you suspect an ingrown toenail.

 

toenail fungus laser treatment

Laser Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail Fungus, , , , ,

Laser toenail fungus treatments, also known as laser therapy or laser nail therapy, are non-invasive procedures used to treat onychomycosis, a common fungal infection of the toenails. This condition can lead to discoloration, thickening, and brittle nails, and it’s often challenging to treat with topical medications alone. Laser treatments offer an alternative option for managing toenail fungus.

How Laser Toenail Fungus Treatments Work: During a laser treatment session, a specialized laser device is used to emit focused beams of light onto the affected toenails. The laser energy penetrates the nail plate, targeting and heating the fungal cells responsible for the infection. The goal is to destroy or weaken the fungus without causing harm to the surrounding healthy tissue.

Benefits of Laser Toenail Fungus Treatments:

  1. Non-invasive: Laser treatments do not involve surgery or the use of oral medications, reducing the risk of potential side effects.
  2. Quick and painless: The procedure is usually quick and painless, with no need for anesthesia.
  3. Minimal downtime: Patients can resume normal activities immediately after the treatment.
  4. Potential for better results: Laser therapy may offer improved results compared to traditional topical treatments alone.

Limitations of Laser Toenail Fungus Treatments:

  1. Variable effectiveness: While some patients experience significant improvement, results may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the type of laser used.
  2. Multiple sessions may be required: Some individuals may need several treatment sessions spaced over several months to achieve optimal results.
  3. Cost: Laser treatments can be relatively expensive, and they may not always be covered by health insurance as they are considered cosmetic or elective procedures.
  4. Not a guaranteed cure: There is no guarantee that laser treatments alone will completely eliminate the toenail fungus. Combining laser therapy with other antifungal measures and good foot hygiene is often recommended for better results.

It’s essential to consult with a podiatrist at Chicago Home Foot Care before considering laser toenail fungus treatments. They can evaluate your specific situation, discuss available treatment options, and determine whether laser therapy is the right approach for you. In some cases, they may recommend a combination of treatments to address the fungal infection more effectively.

Call for an appointment: 312-998-0974
broken ankle treatment

Chronic Pain from Broken Ankles

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Chronic Pain from Broken Ankles

Chicago patients often seek broken ankle treatments. 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.

Dealing with chronic pain can be challenging, but there are several approaches you can consider to help manage your symptoms. However, it’s important to consult with a housecall podiatrist Chicago, who can provide you with personalized advice based on your specific situation. Here are a few general strategies that may be helpful:

  1. Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Your doctor may also prescribe stronger medications or topical creams specifically for managing chronic pain.
  2. Physical therapy: Working with a physical therapist can be beneficial for strengthening the muscles around your ankles, improving flexibility, and promoting overall mobility. They may also use techniques such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation to alleviate pain.
  3. Assistive devices: Depending on your needs, your doctor might recommend using crutches, a cane, or a brace to provide support and reduce stress on your ankles. These devices can help you move around more comfortably and protect your injured ankles.
  4. Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to your ankles can help alleviate pain. Heat can relax muscles and improve blood flow, while cold therapy can numb the area and reduce inflammation. Experiment with both methods to see which provides more relief.
  5. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS): TENS is a non-invasive technique that uses a device to deliver low-voltage electrical currents to specific areas of the body. It can help block pain signals and promote the production of endorphins, which are natural pain relievers.
  6. Mind-body techniques: Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being, which may indirectly alleviate pain.

Remember, these are general suggestions, and it’s important to consult with a housecall podiatrist in Chicago for a comprehensive evaluation and tailored recommendations based on your condition. They can assess your situation, review your medical history, and provide appropriate guidance for managing your chronic pain effectively.

Athlete’s Foot

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s Foot, , , , , , ,

First Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that primarily affects the skin on the feet. The condition is common among athletes, hence the name. The foot condition that is known as athlete’s foot is generally not a serious ailment, despite how uncomfortable it can be. Prompt medical attention is often sought for relief, which may help prevent further foot conditions.  The first symptoms of athlete’s foot can vary from person to person, but they typically include the following:

  1. Itching and burning sensation: One of the initial signs of athlete’s foot is an intense itching or burning sensation on the affected areas, especially between the toes.
  2. Redness and inflammation: The skin may become red, inflamed, and irritated. This is often seen between the toes, but it can also occur on the soles of the feet or other areas.
  3. Peeling and cracking: The skin affected by athlete’s foot may start to peel or flake. It can become dry and develop small cracks, which may cause discomfort or pain.
  4. Blister formation: In some cases, small fluid-filled blisters may appear on the skin. These blisters can be itchy and may break open, leading to further irritation.
  5. Odor: Athlete’s foot can cause a foul odor due to the growth of fungi and bacteria on the skin. This odor is typically noticeable when shoes and socks are removed.
  6. Thickened or discolored nails: In certain cases, athlete’s foot can also lead to fungal nail infections. The nails may become thickened, brittle, discolored, or crumbly.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be indicative of other foot conditions. If you suspect you have athlete’s foot, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Please call us 312 998 0974 today we can help you or your close one in need of foot doctor care to receive it in the comfort of your home.

Serving patients near me: 60007 60018 60106 60131 60176 60290 60601 60602  60603 60604 60605 60606 60607 60608 60609 60610 60611 60612 60613 60614 60615 60616 60617 60618 60619 60620 60621 60622 60623 60624 60625 60626 60628 60629 60630 60631 60632 60633 60634 60636 60637 60638 60639 60640 60641 60642 60643 60644 60645 60646 60647 60649 60651 60652 60653 60827 60804 60701 60706 60707 60803 60699 60697 60002 60010 60089 60015 60020 60030 60031 60035 60040 60041 60044 60045 60047 60048 60069 60046 60060 60064 60088 60061 60083 60084 60085 60087 60096 60099 60101 60502 60504 60103 60106 60108 60527 60188 60514 60561 60515 60516 60126 60519 60137 60139 60521 60143 60532 60148 60157 60540 60563 60565 60523 60172 60181 60555 60184 60185 60559 60187 60189 60190 60191 60517

Toenail Fungus

How Can I Get Rid of Toenail Fungus?

Toenail Fungus, , , ,

How Can I Get Rid of Toenail Fungus?

Are you embarrassed about your unsightly toenails?

If your toenails look discolored, thickened, or are becoming more brittle or painful, you may have toenail fungus under your nails.

Podiatrists at Chicago Home Foot Care can help you take care of not only your feet and ankles, but also your toenails.

Toenail fungus starts when dermatophytes (a type of fungus) enter the bed of your toenails through small cracks, blisters, or scrapes. You can pick up this type of fungus if you go barefoot in warm and damp environments like public showers and pools.

Once inside your nails, the fungus grows and turns them yellow. This discoloration is typically the first sign of a fungal infection. If you don’t treat it right away, your nails may become brittle, and feel painful to the touch over time.

In the worst-case scenario, untreated toenail fungus can take root deep in the tissue layers of your nail and become much more difficult to eliminate.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Laser for fungal toenail is a pain free and fast procedure, to treat any type of fungus infection in your nail. This technique uses laser light to penetrate and vaporize nail bed and special frequency kills only infected cells, with this method there’s no down time and it does not affect your everyday life.

Chicago toenail fungus treatments are available at European Foot & Ankle Clinic in our four locations:

5501 W Belmont Ave, Chicago IL    Phone: 773-205-0106

6037 S Archer Ave, Chicago IL        Phone:  773-585-8003

5950 Hohman Ave, Hammond IN  Phone: 219-501-0115

4000 S Western Ave, Chicago IL    Phone:  773-376-3100

Ways to prevent toenail fungus:

  1. Wash your feet with soap and water daily, and dry them with a clean towel.
  2. Clip your toenails straight across with a clean clippers.
  3. Wear clean socks daily.
  4. Change your gym shoes after a workout. In fact, alternate pairs if possible, letting your footwear dry out between wearings.
  5. Wear flip-flops or shower sandals in the locker room and poolside, too.
  6. Keep your toenails short

Serving patients near me: 60007 60018 60106 60131 60176 60290 60601 60602  60603 60604 60605 60606 60607 60608 60609 60610 60611 60612 60613 60614 60615 60616 60617 60618 60619 60620 60621 60622 60623 60624 60625 60626 60628 60629 60630 60631 60632 60633 60634 60636 60637 60638 60639 60640 60641 60642 60643 60644 60645 60646 60647 60649 60651 60652 60653 60827 60804 60701 60706 60707 60803 60699 60697 60002 60010 60089 60015 60020 60030 60031 60035 60040 60041 60044 60045 60047 60048 60069 60046 60060 60064 60088 60061 60083 60084 60085 60087 60096 60099 60101 60502 60504 60103 60106 60108 60527 60188 60514 60561 60515 60516 60126 60519 60137 60139 60521 60143 60532 60148 60157 60540 60563 60565 60523 60172 60181 60555 60184 60185 60559 60187 60189 60190 60191 60517

Minimal Incision Bunionectomy

Minimal Incision Bunionectomy

Bunions, , , , ,

Minimal Incision Bunionectomy

When patients are suffering from a painful bunion condition, no one ever wants to have surgery. Today, podiatrists  prefer to perform minimally invasive surgeries instead of traditional open surgeries.

In traditional surgery, a patient’s body is opened up to allow the surgeon to access the part of the body that needs to be repaired. Podiatric surgeons may need to create incisions in the foot as long as three to six inches to reach the bones, muscles, and tendons that need to be repaired for many conditions and injuries that affect the feet and ankles. Opening the body to this degree increases the risk of infection, scarring and often requires an extended recovery time. Minimal incision bunionectomy on the other hand, is performed through a couple of small incisions, and in some cases, foot surgery may be performed without making an incision at all.

Minimally invasive surgery is performed using specially designed instruments, similar to the tiny instruments used by jewelers, which are inserted into the body through small incisions made through the skin directly to bone to help correct deformities without damaging the soft tissue.

This procedure is generally performed with local anesthesia. Minimal Incision Bunionectomy is performed right here in our office as an outpatient procedure.

The MIS bunion correction advantage is faster recovery, no joint fusion, less scarring and no prominent painful harware. If you are experiencing bunion pain give Chicago Home Foot Care a call to schedule our house calls podiatrist visit: 312-998-0974 

Learn more about bunion treatments

toenail fungus

Dealing With Toenail Fungus

Toenail Fungus, , ,

Toenail Fungus Treatments

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that can be stubborn to treat. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Here are some tips for dealing with toenail fungus:

  1. Maintain proper foot hygiene: Keep your feet clean and dry, especially after bathing or swimming. Make sure to thoroughly dry the affected toenails, as moisture encourages fungal growth.
  2. Trim and thin the nails: Regularly trim your toenails straight across and file them down to thin the infected areas. This helps reduce the thickness of the nail, making topical treatments more effective.
  3. Wear breathable footwear: Choose shoes made of breathable materials, such as leather or mesh, to allow air circulation. Avoid wearing tight or narrow shoes that can cause excessive sweating.
  4. Use antifungal treatments: Over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, or sprays can be applied to the affected toenails and surrounding skin. Look for products containing active ingredients like clotrimazole or terbinafine. Follow the instructions on the packaging for proper use.
  5. Apply nail lacquer: Prescription-strength antifungal nail lacquers, such as ciclopirox or amorolfine, can be effective in treating toenail fungus. Apply as directed, typically once or twice a week, and remove the layers with alcohol every seven days before reapplying.
  6. Consider oral medications: In severe or persistent cases, oral antifungal medications may be prescribed by a healthcare professional. These medications have potential side effects, so they should be used under medical supervision.
  7. Protect your feet in public areas: Toenail fungus can be contagious, so take precautions in public areas like swimming pools, gyms, or showers. Wear shower shoes or sandals to minimize contact with surfaces where fungi may thrive.
  8. Be patient and consistent: Treating toenail fungus takes time, and improvement may be gradual. Consistency in following the treatment plan is key. It can take several months for a healthy nail to grow and replace the infected portion.

Remember, these tips are general recommendations, and the effectiveness of treatments may vary from person to person. Consulting with a healthcare professional, podiatrist, will provide you with a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment options based on the severity of your condition.

Call to schedule our house calls podiatrist visit: 312-998-0974

Lear more:  https://chicagohomefootcare.com

Please call us 312 998 0974 today we can help you or your close one in need of foot doctor care to receive it in the comfort of your home.

Serving patients near me: 60007 60018 60106 60131 60176 60290 60601 60602  60603 60604 60605 60606 60607 60608 60609 60610 60611 60612 60613 60614 60615 60616 60617 60618 60619 60620 60621 60622 60623 60624 60625 60626 60628 60629 60630 60631 60632 60633 60634 60636 60637 60638 60639 60640 60641 60642 60643 60644 60645 60646 60647 60649 60651 60652 60653 60827 60804 60701 60706 60707 60803 60699 60697 60002 60010 60089 60015 60020 60030 60031 60035 60040 60041 60044 60045 60047 60048 60069 60046 60060 60064 60088 60061 60083 60084 60085 60087 60096 60099 60101 60502 60504 60103 60106 60108 60527 60188 60514 60561 60515 60516 60126 60519 60137 60139 60521 60143 60532 60148 60157 60540 60563 60565 60523 60172 60181 60555 60184 60185 60559 60187 60189 60190 60191 60517

bunion surgery

Minimally Invasive Bunion Correction in Chicago

Bunions, , , ,

Minimally Invasive Bunion Surgery

Minimally invasive bunion surgery, also known as minimally invasive bunionectomy or keyhole bunion surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to correct a bunion deformity with smaller incisions and less disruption to the surrounding tissues compared to traditional open surgery. The goal of the surgery is to realign the bones of the big toe and restore normal foot function while minimizing scarring and reducing recovery time.

Here’s an overview of the procedure and its benefits:

  1. Procedure: Minimally invasive bunion surgery typically involves the following steps:
    • Small incisions: One or a few small incisions are made near the affected area.
    • Soft tissue preservation: The surgeon carefully moves and preserves the soft tissues (muscles, tendons) to access the bunion.
    • Bone realignment: The misaligned bones are corrected using specialized instruments.
    • Fixation: Screws, wires, or other devices may be used to stabilize the bones in their new position.
    • Incision closure: The incisions are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
  2. Benefits:
    • Smaller incisions: The smaller incisions result in less scarring and a more cosmetically appealing outcome.
    • Reduced soft tissue trauma: Minimally invasive techniques minimize damage to surrounding tissues, leading to less pain and swelling after surgery.
    • Quicker recovery: Patients often experience faster recovery and return to normal activities compared to traditional open surgery.
    • Lower risk of complications: Minimally invasive approaches have been associated with lower rates of infection, nerve damage, and other complications.
Call to schedule our house calls podiatrist visit: 312-998-0974

Lear more:  https://chicagohomefootcare.com

Diabetic foot care

Proper Foot Care and Protection for Diabetics

Healthy Foot, , , , , ,

Proper Foot Care and Protection for Diabetics

Proper foot care is essential for individuals with diabetes because they are more prone to foot problems and complications. High blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy) and poor blood circulation (peripheral arterial disease), which can lead to foot ulcers, infections, and even amputation if not managed properly. Here are some important tips for foot care and protection for diabetics:

  1. Daily foot inspection: Inspect your feet thoroughly every day, looking for any cuts, blisters, sores, redness, swelling, or other abnormalities. If you have difficulty seeing the bottom of your feet, use a mirror or ask someone for assistance.
  2. Maintain good hygiene: Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap. Make sure to dry them thoroughly, including between the toes, as moisture can lead to fungal infections. Avoid soaking your feet, as it can dry out the skin.
  3. Moisturize carefully: Use a moisturizer or emollient to prevent dry skin, but avoid applying it between the toes to prevent excess moisture buildup. Dry skin can crack and lead to infections.
  4. Trim nails properly: Cut your toenails straight across and avoid cutting too close to the skin to prevent ingrown toenails. If you have difficulty cutting your nails, seek professional help from a podiatrist.
  5. Wear well-fitting shoes: Choose comfortable shoes that provide adequate support and protection for your feet. Avoid tight or pointed shoes, high heels, and open-toed shoes. Consider wearing specialized diabetic shoes or orthotic inserts recommended by your healthcare provider.
  6. Check shoes and socks: Inspect your shoes for any foreign objects, rough seams, or irregularities that could cause friction or injuries to your feet. Also, wear clean, dry socks that fit well and avoid those with tight elastic bands that can restrict circulation.
  7. Avoid walking barefoot: Protect your feet by wearing shoes or slippers at all times, even indoors. Walking barefoot increases the risk of injury and infections.
  8. Promote good circulation: Avoid crossing your legs for long periods and elevate your feet when sitting or lying down to improve blood flow. Regular exercise and physical activity can also help improve circulation.
  9. Control blood sugar levels: Keep your blood sugar levels within the target range advised by your healthcare provider. Properly managing your diabetes can significantly reduce the risk of foot complications.
  10. Regular check-ups: Schedule regular foot exams with a podiatrist or healthcare provider who specializes in diabetic foot care. They can assess your foot health, identify any problems early on, and provide appropriate treatment.

Remember, if you notice any signs of foot problems or have any concerns, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention and proper foot care can prevent severe complications and help you maintain good foot health as a diabetic.

Call to schedule our house calls podiatrist visit: 312-998-0974

Lear more:  https://chicagohomefootcare.com

toenail fungus

Tips For Summer Foot Care

Healthy Foot, , , , , , ,

Tips For Summer Foot Care

Taking care of your feet during the summer is essential for maintaining their health and preventing common issues like dryness, cracking, and infections. Here are some tips for summer foot care:

  1. Keep your feet clean: Wash your feet daily with mild soap and warm water to remove sweat, dirt, and bacteria. Make sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
  2. Exfoliate regularly: Use a gentle foot scrub or a pumice stone to remove dead skin cells and keep your feet smooth. Pay attention to rough areas like heels and the balls of your feet.
  3. Moisturize: Apply a good quality foot cream or moisturizer after washing and exfoliating your feet. Look for products that contain ingredients like shea butter or urea to help hydrate and soften the skin.
  4. Wear proper footwear: Opt for open-toe or breathable shoes made of natural materials like leather or canvas. Avoid wearing tight, ill-fitting shoes as they can cause blisters and other foot problems. Make sure your shoes provide adequate support and cushioning.
  5. Protect your feet from the sun: Apply sunscreen to your feet, especially if they will be exposed to the sun for long periods. Don’t forget to cover the tops of your feet, toes, and ankles.
  6. Avoid walking barefoot in public areas: Walking barefoot increases the risk of picking up fungal infections or injuring your feet. Always wear flip-flops or sandals in public pools, locker rooms, and communal showers.
  7. Keep toenails trimmed: Regularly trim your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. Avoid cutting them too short, as it can lead to painful conditions.
  8. Stay hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for overall skin health, including your feet. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated.
  9. Take breaks and elevate your feet: If you spend long hours standing or walking, take breaks to rest your feet and elevate them to reduce swelling and improve circulation.
  10. Pay attention to any foot problems: If you notice any foot pain, swelling, or signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or pus, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into more serious conditions.
Call to schedule our house calls podiatrist visit: 312-998-0974

Lear more:  https://chicagohomefootcare.com

bunions

Bunions. Symptoms and Causes

Bunions, , , , ,

Bunions. Symptoms and Causes

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It is a common foot problem that affects people of all ages, but it is most commonly seen in women and older adults. Bunions can be painful and limit mobility, making it difficult to wear certain types of shoes or participate in certain activities.

Symptoms of a bunion include:

  1. A bulging bump on the base of the big toe.
  2. Pain and tenderness in the affected area.
  3. Swelling or redness around the big toe joint.
  4. Stiffness in the big toe joint.
  5. Corns or calluses on the bump or on the second toe due to friction from shoes.
  6. Limited movement of the big toe.

The exact cause of bunions is not known, but several factors may contribute to their development. These include:

  1. Genetics: A tendency to develop bunions can be inherited.
  2. Foot structure: Abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or low arches, can lead to bunions.
  3. Foot injuries: Injuries to the foot can cause the bones to shift and contribute to bunion development.
  4. Footwear: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can put pressure on the toes and contribute to bunion formation.
  5. Arthritis: Certain types of arthritis can cause inflammation in the joints and contribute to the development of bunions.

If you suspect you have a bunion, it is important to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options may include changes in footwear, padding and taping, medication, physical therapy, or surgery.

Podiatrists at Chicago Home Foot Care provide minimally invasive bunion surgery.

all to schedule our house calls podiatrist visit: 312-998-0974

Lear more:  https://chicagohomefootcare.com/services/bunnionshammertoes

podiatrist chicago

When To See A Podiatrist For Your Foot Problems

Healthy Foot, , , ,

When To See A Podiatrist For Your Foot Problems

If you’re experiencing foot problems, it’s important to seek help from a podiatrist, also known as a foot and ankle specialist. A podiatrist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the feet and ankles.

Here are some signs that you should see a podiatrist:

  1. Persistent pain: If you’re experiencing persistent pain in your feet or ankles, it’s important to get it checked out. Pain that doesn’t go away could be a sign of a serious problem that requires medical attention.
  2. Swelling or redness: Swelling or redness in the feet or ankles could be a sign of an injury or infection.
  3. Numbness or tingling: If you’re experiencing numbness or tingling in your feet or toes, it could be a sign of nerve damage.
  4. Skin and nail problems: Podiatrists can also treat skin and nail problems such as corns, calluses, fungal infections, and ingrown toenails.
  5. Chronic conditions: If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, arthritis, or neuropathy, you should see a podiatrist regularly to monitor your foot health.

It’s important to take care of your feet, as they are an essential part of your mobility and overall health. If you’re experiencing any foot problems, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Please call us to schedule our housecalls podiatrist visit:  312-998-0974

heel pain

Common Causes Of Heel Pain

Foot pain, , , ,

Common Causes Of Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common foot problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of heel pain include:

  1. Plantar Fasciitis: This is the most common cause of heel pain, occurring when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or irritated.
  2. Achilles Tendinitis: This condition occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone, becomes inflamed or irritated.
  3. Heel Spurs: These are bony growths that develop on the bottom of the heel bone, often as a result of long-term plantar fasciitis.
  4. Stress Fractures: These are small cracks in the bones of the foot, which can occur as a result of overuse or repetitive impact.
  5. Bursitis: This is the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions and protects the joints in the body. When it occurs in the heel, it can cause pain and swelling.
  6. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a condition that occurs when the tibial nerve, which runs through a tunnel in the ankle, becomes compressed or pinched.
  7. Sever’s Disease: This is a condition that occurs in children and adolescents when the growth plate in the heel bone becomes inflamed or irritated.

Other causes of heel pain can include nerve damage, arthritis, and obesity. It is important to see a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of heel pain and to receive appropriate treatment.

Please call us to schedule our housecalls podiatrist visit:  312-998-0974

Foot fracture

Foot Fractures

Foot pain, , ,

Foot Fractures

A foot fracture is a break in one of the bones of the foot. Fractures can occur in any of the 26 bones that make up the foot, but the most common fractures occur in the toes, metatarsals (the long bones in the middle of the foot), and the heel bone (calcaneus).

The symptoms of a foot fracture may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or putting weight on the affected foot. In some cases, there may be a visible deformity or a bone protruding through the skin.

Treatment for a foot fracture will depend on the severity and location of the injury. Simple fractures may be treated with immobilization using a cast or a brace, while more complex fractures may require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones.

After a foot fracture, it is important to rest and protect the affected foot to allow for proper healing. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore strength and mobility to the foot.

If you suspect you have a foot fracture, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further damage and ensure proper healing.

Please call us to schedule our housecalls podiatrist visit:  312-998-0974

foot arthritis

Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Foot pain, , , ,

Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in joints. Foot and ankle arthritis specifically affect the joints in the foot and ankle, causing pain and difficulty in movement.

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the foot and ankle, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints, and post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury or trauma to the foot or ankle.

Symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or performing daily activities. Treatment options may include non-surgical interventions, such as physical therapy, medication, and the use of orthotics or braces, or surgical interventions, such as joint replacement surgery.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for foot and ankle arthritis.

How does arthritis affect the foot and ankle?

Each foot has 28 bones and more than 30 joints. The most common foot joints that arthritis affects are:

  • The joint where the ankle and shinbone meet.
  • The 3 joints of the foot that involve the heel bone, the inner mid-foot bone, and the outer mid-foot bone.
  • The joint of the big toe and foot bone.

Please call us to schedule our podiatrist visit:  312-998-0974