Tag Archives: foot and ankle

ankle pain

How To Treat Ankle Pain

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Ankle pain can be one of the most debilitating pains to experience. It affects not just your ankle, but also your mobility, often causing you to be unable to move around without feeling pain.  If your ankle pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it’s important to contact Chicago housecall podiatrists for proper diagnosis and treatment. That said, here are some steps you can consider for treating mild ankle pain:

  1. Rest: Give your ankle a break and avoid putting unnecessary stress on it. Resting allows the body to heal naturally.
  2. Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Use an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth for about 15-20 minutes at a time, every 1-2 hours.
  3. Compression: Wrapping the ankle with an elastic bandage (like an ACE bandage) can help control swelling and provide support. Be careful not to wrap it too tightly, as this can impede blood circulation.
  4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage and guidelines.
  5. Supportive Footwear: Wear shoes that provide proper support and cushioning. Avoid high heels or shoes that exacerbate your pain.
  6. Avoid Putting Weight: If your pain is severe or your ankle is unstable, consider using crutches or a brace to avoid putting weight on the injured ankle until it heals.
  7. Heat: After the initial acute phase (usually after 48 hours), you might consider using heat therapy to help relax muscles and promote blood circulation. Use a warm towel or a heating pad on a low setting for about 15-20 minutes at a time.

Remember, the appropriate treatment for ankle pain depends on the cause of the pain. If the pain doesn’t improve or gets worse, call podiatrists from Chicago Home Foot Care  at 312-998-0974 to identify the underlying issue and receive appropriate treatment.

Cracked heels

Cracked Heels

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Cracked Heels Treatments

Dry, cracked heels are not only unsightly, but they can also be a source of pain and embarrassment.  Do you suffer from dry, cracked heels when you wear open heeled sandals? These cracks, known as heel fissures, are caused when excess pressure is placed on dry skin and calluses on the bottom of the foot. They generally aren’t painful at first, but they can be unsightly. If the cracks become deep enough, they can begin to cause pain or even bleed and lead to infection.

The skin on the heels may become dry for a variety of reasons, and this can precede a condition that is known as cracked heels. Standing for extended periods of time throughout the day, and frequently wearing shoes that have an open back are some ways this ailment may develop. There are also medical conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or a thyroid disorder that can cause cracked heels.

If you are suffering from heel fissures, here are some helpful home remedies:

  • Moisturize your feet daily
  • Increase your water intake to keep your body hydrated
  • Wear clean socks and closed shoes as much as possible
  • Limit time in the shower as hot water dries out the skin
  • Avoid barefoot walking, especially on hard surfaces
  • Use a pumice stone in the shower to help remove dead skin & soften calluses

It is important to seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at 312-998-0974 to schedule podiatrist visit to your home. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s Foot

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

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Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the upper layer of the skin of the foot, especially when it is warm, moist, and irritated.  The same fungus may also grow on other parts of the body. However, the feet are most commonly affected, especially between the toes. Despite the name, athlete’s foot can happen to anyone. It can result in flaky skin, cracking, and itchiness on the soles of the foot and between the toes.

Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot

The most common symptom is cracked, flaking, peeling skin between the toes or on the side of the foot. Other symptoms can include:

  • Red and itchy skin
  • Burning or stinging pain
  • Blisters that ooze or get crusty

If the fungus spreads to your nails, they can become discolored, thick, and even crumble.

How Long Does Athlete’s Foot Last?

Most mild cases of athlete’s foot clear up within 2 weeks. But treatment can go for several weeks or longer if the infection is more serious or affects the toenails.

Athlete’s Foot Treatments

Treatment for athlete’s foot depends on its type and severity. Most cases can be treated at home with antifungal medicines. They kill the fungus or slow its growth. You also need to keep your feet clean and dry.
Over-the-counter antifungal lotions, creams, or sprays usually are used first. These include clotrimazole (Lotriderm) and tolnaftate (Tinactin).
Prescription antifungals may be tried if non-prescription medicines don’t help. Some prescription antifungals are put directly on the skin. Others are taken as a pill.
If you have a severe infection that doesn’t improve, your doctor may prescribe antifungal pills. They are used only for severe cases.

Call 312-998-0974 to schedule a visiting doctor to come to your home