Tag Archives: podiatrist

podiatrist visit

When to See a Podiatrist

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Visiting a podiatrist, a medical professional specializing in diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures, is crucial for maintaining foot health and overall well-being. Here are some specific situations when you should consider seeing a podiatrist:

1. Persistent Foot or Ankle Pain

  • Symptoms: Continuous pain in your feet or ankles that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Potential Issues: Conditions such as arthritis, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or stress fractures.

2. Heel Pain

  • Symptoms: Sharp pain in the heel, especially first thing in the morning or after standing for long periods.
  • Potential Issues: Plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or Achilles tendonitis.

3. Foot Deformities

  • Symptoms: Visible deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or high arches.
  • Potential Issues: Structural abnormalities that can worsen over time and affect mobility.

4. Numbness, Tingling, or Burning Sensations

  • Symptoms: Unexplained numbness, tingling, or burning in the feet.
  • Potential Issues: Nerve problems like peripheral neuropathy or tarsal tunnel syndrome.

5. Changes in Skin or Nails

  • Symptoms: Discoloration, thickening, or ingrown nails; blisters, sores, or warts on your feet.
  • Potential Issues: Fungal infections, bacterial infections, warts, or skin cancers.

6. Swelling or Redness

  • Symptoms: Persistent swelling, redness, or warmth in the feet or ankles.
  • Potential Issues: Infections, gout, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

7. Diabetes Management

  • Symptoms: Routine care for those with diabetes, even without foot problems.
  • Potential Issues: High risk of foot complications such as ulcers, infections, and neuropathy.

8. Injuries

  • Symptoms: Sprains, fractures, or wounds that are not healing.
  • Potential Issues: Proper diagnosis and treatment to ensure correct healing and prevent long-term damage.

9. Difficulty Walking

  • Symptoms: Changes in the way you walk, such as limping or favoring one foot.
  • Potential Issues: Musculoskeletal issues that need to be addressed to improve mobility.

10. Athletic Injuries and Performance Issues

  • Symptoms: Recurring injuries or pain associated with physical activities.
  • Potential Issues: Overuse injuries, improper footwear, or gait abnormalities.

Preventive Care

Even if you don’t have specific symptoms, it can be beneficial to see a podiatrist for preventive care, especially if you have risk factors such as a family history of foot problems, a job that requires standing for long periods, or participation in high-impact sports.

Regular visits to a podiatrist can help maintain foot health, detect potential problems early, and provide appropriate treatment to avoid complications.podiatristpo

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Podiatrist Tips for Summer

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Podiatrists in Chicago housecalls can come to your house this summer.

Summer brings unique challenges for foot health due to increased activities, exposure, and environmental factors. Here are some essential tips from podiatrists to keep your feet healthy and comfortable during the warmer months:

1. Choose the Right Footwear

  • Supportive Sandals: Opt for sandals with arch support, cushioned soles, and straps that keep your feet secure. Avoid flat flip-flops as they provide little to no support.
  • Breathable Shoes: Wear shoes made from breathable materials to keep your feet cool and dry. Mesh and canvas are good options.
  • Proper Fit: Ensure your shoes fit well to prevent blisters, calluses, and other foot injuries.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

  • Wash Feet Daily: Clean your feet thoroughly every day to remove sweat and bacteria. Dry them completely, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections.
  • Moisturize: Apply a light, non-greasy moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and prevent cracks. Avoid applying it between the toes to prevent excess moisture.
  • Trim Nails Properly: Trim your toenails straight across and file any sharp edges to prevent ingrown toenails.

3. Protect Your Feet

  • Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen on your feet, including the tops and ankles, to prevent sunburn.
  • Avoid Hot Surfaces: Sand and pavement can get extremely hot in the summer. Wear shoes or sandals to protect your feet from burns.

4. Stay Dry

  • Change Socks: If your feet sweat a lot, change your socks frequently to keep them dry. Choose moisture-wicking socks to reduce sweat.
  • Antifungal Powder: Use antifungal powder to keep your feet dry and prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

5. Address Foot Issues Promptly

  • Blisters and Sores: If you develop blisters or sores, clean them with mild soap and water, apply an antiseptic, and cover them with a bandage.
  • Consult a Podiatrist: For persistent or severe foot issues, seek professional help from a podiatrist.

6. Stay Active Safely

  • Gradual Increase in Activity: If you’re increasing your physical activity, do it gradually to avoid overuse injuries.
  • Stretch and Warm-Up: Stretch your feet and ankles before engaging in physical activities to prevent strains and sprains.

7. Hydration and Diet

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to maintain overall health and prevent swelling in your feet.
  • Balanced Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support foot health.

8. Special Considerations for Diabetics

  • Regular Inspections: Diabetics should inspect their feet daily for cuts, blisters, and other injuries.
  • Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that fit well and provide good support to prevent foot complications.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a comfortable and healthy summer season while keeping your feet in great condition.

podiatrist near me Chicago

Safe Winter Walking

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Winter Walking

Safe winter walking is important to prevent slips, trips, and falls, especially in icy and snowy conditions. Here are some tips for safe winter walking:

  1. Choose Appropriate Footwear:
    • Wear shoes or boots with slip-resistant soles.
    • Consider using ice cleats or traction devices for added grip.
  2. Watch Your Step:
    • Pay attention to the ground and be aware of icy patches.
    • Take smaller steps and walk at a slower pace to maintain balance.
  3. Use Handrails:
    • When available, use handrails for support on stairs and slippery surfaces.
  4. Clear Your Path:
    • Remove snow and ice from walkways and driveways promptly.
    • Spread salt or sand on icy surfaces to improve traction.
  5. Stay Visible:
    • Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during low-light conditions.
  6. Plan Your Route:
    • Choose well-maintained and well-lit paths when possible.
    • Avoid shortcuts that may be less maintained.
  7. Carry Essentials:
    • Keep a mobile phone with you in case of emergencies.
    • If conditions are severe, consider carrying a small bag of salt or sand.
  8. Be Cautious of Black Ice:
    • Black ice is often difficult to see. Be especially careful when temperatures are near freezing.
  9. Stay Informed:
    • Check weather forecasts for information on upcoming snow or ice conditions.
    • Plan your outings accordingly.
  10. Take Your Time:
    • Allow for extra time to reach your destination.
    • Rushing increases the risk of slipping and falling.

By taking these precautions and being mindful of your surroundings, you can reduce the risk of accidents while walking in winter conditions.

Call and schedule an appointment with our Chicago podiatrists at 773-769-3310. Our 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.

flat feet

Flat Feet

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Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, is a condition where the arches on the inside of your feet are flattened, causing the entire sole of your foot to touch the floor when you stand. It’s a common condition that can be present at birth or develop over time due to factors like age, injury, or wear and tear on the feet.

Some people with flat feet may not experience any pain or discomfort, while others may have symptoms such as:

  1. Pain or achiness in the feet, especially in the arch or heel area.
  2. Swelling along the inside of the ankle.
  3. Difficulty standing for long periods.
  4. Foot movement issues or feeling like the feet tire easily.

If you suspect you have flat feet and it’s causing you discomfort, it’s a good idea to see a doctor or a podiatrist (foot specialist). They can examine your feet, assess your symptoms, and recommend appropriate treatments. Treatment options may include:

  1. Orthotic devices: Custom-made shoe inserts (orthotics) can provide support and alleviate discomfort by redistributing pressure on the foot.
  2. Supportive footwear: Shoes with good arch support and stability can help reduce pain and provide better alignment.
  3. Physical therapy: Specific exercises and stretches can strengthen muscles and improve foot function.
  4. Over-the-counter arch supports: These can offer relief for mild cases.
  5. In severe cases: Surgery might be considered, but this is typically rare and only for extreme cases where other treatments haven’t been effective.

Remember, having flat feet doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll have problems. Many people with flat feet don’t experience any symptoms or issues and lead perfectly normal, pain-free lives. But if you’re experiencing discomfort or pain, it’s essential to seek podiatrist advice to explore the best options for managing your condition.

all 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.

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.

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When To See A Podiatrist For Your Foot Problems

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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

senior feet care

Taking Care of Senior Feet

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Senior Foot Care

Aging feet need extra care. Aging takes a toll on the feet. But with a long caregiving To Do list, out-of-sight tasks like foot care can be easily forgotten.

Over time, feet flatten and become wider. The fatty padding naturally wears down. That leaves the bones and joints of the feet more exposed to wear and tear.

Many seniors require regular pedicures or trips to the podiatrist to properly care for their feet, but a few simple at-home steps can help keep their feet well maintained between appointments.

Keep Feet Clean

Depending on whether your older adult bathes on their own or needs help, their feet may only get washed once in a while during the week.

Since good foot hygiene is critical to preventing fungal, viral, and bacterial infections, routine foot cleaning may need to happen outside of the bath or shower.

Making a regular habit of simple foot wipedowns with warm water, soap, and a washcloth will do the trick. And if done at night, it can even promote relaxation prior to sleep.

Pamper Your Skin

As we age, the skin on our feet becomes thinner and drier. After a shower or bath, treat your feet to a massage with your favorite lotion or cream. Avoid leaving lotion between your toes as this can promote the growth of fungal infections.

For rough patches, try an exfoliating foot scrub. You can also apply a thick lubricating cream at bedtime, then sleep with cotton socks on your feet. If you wear sandals, remember to use sunscreen on the tops of your feet.

Take Good Care of Your Nails

Keep toenails trimmed so the edges are even with the tips of the toes. Nails become drier and more brittle as we age, so they’re usually easier to trim after softening in a foot soak. Trim straight across to help prevent ingrown toenails.

Wear the Correct Shoes

Years of fashionable high heels and pointy-toed shoes eventually catch up with us. The result can be corns, bunions, curled toes or other painful problems. Now is the time to look for shoes that provide comfort and good support.

As we get older, our feet become wider and a bit longer, so double-check your size before buying new shoes. It’s also a good idea to shop for shoes in the evening as our feet tend to swell a bit as the day goes on.

Get medical attention when needed

However, delaying medical care often makes treatment more difficult. Contact podiatrist if  you have foot pain or you suspect that you have any of these common foot conditions like bunions, hammer toes, discolored toenails, corns, and calluses.

Chicago Home Foot Care provides podiatrist housecalls for elderly and homebound people. Contact us to request an appointment: 312-998-0974  https://chicagohomefootcare.com/

bunion surgery

Minimal Incision Bunion Correction

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Bunion Surgery with Minimal Incision

A bunion (hallux valgus) is a condition in which your big toe has a protruding bump at its base on the inside of the foot. This bump occurs when your foot alignment changes and causes your big toe to move toward the smaller toes.

Minimally invasive bunion surgery, also known as keyhole bunion surgery, is a procedure to treat a foot condition called a bunion or hallux valgus. During minimally invasive bunion surgery, a few small incisions are made to access the bone around the bunion, as opposed to a much larger incision made during an open bunion surgery that cuts across layers of tissue around the bone, causing more postoperative pain, a larger scar, and damage to the surrounding soft tissues.

If you are considering surgery for a painful bunion, a minimally invasive surgery can reliably address the appearance of the foot as well as the pain associated with the deformity.

Our board-certified podiatrists in 4 Chicago offices specialize in bunion correction surgery & use minimal incision surgery.

Minimal pain, minimal scar, minimal blood loss during the surgery, minimal recovery time. Providing podiatry services including custom braces such as Arizona brace and more.

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

Call to schedule a podiatrist to visit you at your home:  312-998-0974

healthy feet

Benefits of Walking for Foot Health

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Foot Health

The foot is a structure with 26 bones, 32 joints, 103 ligaments, and numerous muscles and tendons, each component relies on the others to work properly. One of the best things we can do to keep our feet healthy is to use them. Walking can help improve the overall function of your feet.

Promoting good circulation through walking is important for your feet. Circulation is also critical in helping to fight infection if you have a bruise, or cut on your foot. Proper blood supply provides oxygen and nutrients to the structures of the foot and removes waste products. Good circulation also provides essential nutrients to maintain the health of your nerve sheaths and is important to sustain normal nerve function.

Benefits of Walking for Foot Health

  • Strengthen the bones and muscles of the feet and ankles.
  • Increase flexibility and stability in the muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
  • A healthy weight can reduce the risk of obesity, which can put a lot of strain on the feet and ankles.
  • Increase circulation and reduce swelling.

Tips for your walking:

  • Make sure to wear comfortable and supportive shoes, with socks.
  • Warm up and loosen up stiff muscles before you set out on a brisk walk.
  • Stretch after each walk to cool down and encourage muscle recovery.
  • Start slow, but challenge yourself to gradually take slightly faster walks.

Contact our Chicago podiatrist office to schedule an appointment for all your podiatry needs:  312-998-0974

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Morton’s Neuroma

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Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is one of the three most common disorders of the foot. If you’ve ever felt like you were walking around with a rock in your shoe, then you might be familiar with the symptoms of one of the most common types of neuromas—a Morton’s neuroma.  a neuroma is the condition where the nerve between the two toes inward from your pinky toe that becomes irritated and enlarged.

Causes of Morton’s Neuroma

Your nerves are responsible for transmitting impulses to the brain or spinal cord, and impulses from brain to the muscles and organs. A neuroma is a nerve defect resulting from compression or irritation. In the feet, the three most common causes of neuromas are:

  1. Pre-existing foot abnormalities such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat arches
  2. Repetitive irritation from years of athletic activity including jogging, running, or court sports
  3. Injury or other trauma to the foot

Shoes with high heels and/or pointed toe boxes force the feet into unnatural shapes that create pressure at the ball of the foot. Women who typically prefer such footwear are at particular risk of developing neuromas.

Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma

Keep attention to any changes in your feet, especially persistent discomfort, tingling, burning, numbness, or a feeling like there is something inside or bunched up under the ball of your foot . All of these can be signs of a looming Morton’s neuroma.

The symptoms of Morton’s neuroma don’t usually appear overnight. First, you might notice an odd sensation only when wearing a particular pair of shoes or engaging in a specific activity. You might think that the shoes or the sport is the culprit, and make a change to prevent further discomfort. Eventually, the symptoms will become more pervasive and harder to avoid. As the neuroma enlarges and the temporary irritation to the nerve becomes permanent damage, your symptoms may become more intense or persist for longer periods of time.

Your podiatrist will determine an individualized treatment plan for your Morton’s neuroma.

Podiatrist Near me

Broken Foot

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Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken ankle occurs when the bone endures a break, which can be either partial or complete. It can be very easy for an individual who has suffered a broken ankle to mistake it for an ankle sprain, and vice versa.
From minor cracks in the bone to clean breaks, foot fractures are some of the most common injuries diagnosed and treated by podiatrists.
Types Of Foot Fractures

Foot fractures come in 2 types: stress fractures and acute fractures.

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

Bruising
Pain
Redness
Swelling
Blue in color
Numbness
Cold
Misshapen
Cuts
Deformities

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

Call us today to schedule an appointment with podiatrist: 312-998-0974

Burning feet

Burning Feet

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Burning Feet

Having a sensation of burning feet can be caused by many conditions. The most common cause is peripheral neuropathy from diabetic nerve damage that is caused by poorly controlled blood sugar levels. Symptoms include a sense of tingling and numbness and a burning sensation that can range from mild to severe. Excessive alcohol consumption can also damage the peripheral nerves and cause a burning feeling.

What Causes Burning Feet?

1. Your Foot Posture
2. Peripheral Neuropathy (Diabetes)
3. Morton’s Neuroma
4. Nerve Compression Or Entrapment (Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome)
5. Traumatic Nerve Damage (Injury)
6. Athlete’s Foot (Fungal Infection)
7. Vitamin, mineral and other nutrient deficiencies

and more

Treatment options range from topical creams and gels used to temporarily alleviate symptoms of burning feet and to reduce pain messengers.  Oral medications have been used with some success and are often started if topical medications prove ineffective.  Several alternative therapies have also show to help with some patients symptoms.

If you have burning sensation in your feet, call us today: 312-998-0974  to schedule an appointment at the convenience of your home.