Tag Archives: joint pain

housecall podiatrist Chicago

When To See a Podiatrist

Foot pain, , , , , ,

When To See a Podiatrist

If you are having foot or ankle pain, toe problems, or have diabetes, these are just a few of the reasons why you should see a podiatrist. Housecall podiatrists at Chicago Home Foot Care, IL, offer comprehensive podiatry services, to help you and your feet feel better.

Reasons to schedule our podiatrists visit:

  1. Foot Pain: If you are experiencing persistent pain in your feet or ankles, especially if it’s affecting your daily activities or quality of life, a podiatrist can help diagnose the underlying issue and recommend appropriate treatment.
  2. Ingrown Toenails: If you have an ingrown toenail that’s causing pain, redness, swelling, or infection, a podiatrist can provide relief and prevent further complications.
  3. Foot Deformities: If you notice any abnormal growths, deformities, or changes in the shape of your feet or toes, a podiatrist can assess the situation and recommend interventions if necessary.
  4. Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of foot complications due to nerve damage and poor circulation. Regular visits to a podiatrist can help prevent and manage potential issues like diabetic foot ulcers.
  5. Athletic Injuries: If you’re an athlete and sustain foot or ankle injuries, a podiatrist can provide specialized care to ensure proper healing and help you get back to your activities as soon as possible.
  6. Heel Pain: Conditions like plantar fasciitis, which cause heel pain, can be effectively managed by a podiatrist. They can provide treatments to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.
  7. Arthritis: If you have arthritis that’s affecting your feet or ankles, a podiatrist can help manage the condition and provide recommendations for maintaining mobility and reducing pain.
  8. Flat Feet or High Arches: If you have flat feet or high arches that are causing discomfort or issues with walking, a podiatrist can offer guidance on appropriate footwear and potential orthotic interventions.
  9. Nail and Skin Conditions: Podiatrists can treat various nail and skin conditions affecting the feet, such as fungal infections, warts, and calluses.
  10. Routine Foot Care: Even if you don’t have any specific issues, it’s a good idea to see a podiatrist for routine check-ups, especially if you’re at risk for foot problems due to factors like age, genetics, or lifestyle.
  11. Preventive Care: If you’re planning to start a new exercise routine, change your footwear, or have concerns about foot health, a podiatrist can provide guidance to prevent potential problems.

Call 312-998-0974 to schedule foot doctor visit to your house.

ankle pain

What Causes the Ankle to Lock?

Foot pain, , , , ,

What Causes the Ankle to Lock?

Housecall podiatrists at Chicago Home Foot Care treat ankle pain. The ankle is a complex and hard-working joint that bears multiple times the weight of your body with each step. Sometimes an ankle sprain or other condition will stop the joint from doing its work, and the ankle joint seems to lock up.

The term “ankle lock” can refer to a few different situations involving the ankle joint and cause ankle pain. It’s important to distinguish between these situations, as they have different causes and implications:

  1. Ankle Joint Locking due to Injuries or Structural Issues: Sometimes, the ankle joint can feel like it’s “locking” due to injuries or structural issues. This could be the result of a torn ligament, a bone fragment, or even a dislocation. These conditions might cause a sensation of the joint getting stuck or locked in a certain position. Conditions like ankle impingement or loose bodies within the joint can also lead to similar sensations.
  2. Ankle Joint Instability: On the flip side, if the ligaments supporting the ankle are injured or weakened, it can lead to a sense of instability. This instability can sometimes manifest as a feeling of the ankle giving way or “locking” as the joint moves in ways it’s not properly stabilized to handle.
  3. Muscle Cramps or Spasms: Muscle cramps or spasms in the calf or ankle muscles can lead to a sensation of “locking.” When a muscle suddenly contracts and doesn’t relax properly, it can cause discomfort and a sensation of immobility.
  4. Achilles Tendon Issues: Problems with the Achilles tendon, such as tendonitis or a partial tear, can cause pain and stiffness in the ankle area, potentially giving rise to a feeling of “locking.”
  5. Synovitis: Synovitis is inflammation of the synovial membrane that lines the joint. This inflammation can lead to swelling and reduced joint movement, which might be interpreted as the joint “locking.”
  6. Neurological Issues: In some cases, neurological conditions can affect the perception of joint movement and position. Conditions like dystonia, where muscles contract involuntarily, could potentially cause a sensation of “locking.”

If you are experiencing a recurring sensation of your ankle locking or have concerns about your ankle’s health, call housecall podiatrists at Chicago Home Foot Care at 312-998-0974. Our Chicago podiatrists can provide a proper diagnosis based on your symptoms, medical history, and potentially recommend imaging studies or other diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment.