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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.

foot pain

When To See A Podiatrist For Your Foot Problems

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Seeing a podiatrist for foot problems can be beneficial in various situations, such as:

  1. Persistent Pain: If you have ongoing pain in your feet or ankles that doesn’t improve with rest or over-the-counter medications, a podiatrist can help diagnose the issue.
  2. Foot Deformities: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet may require professional evaluation and management by a podiatrist.
  3. Changes in Skin or Nails: Any changes in the skin or nails of your feet—such as discoloration, thickening, or unusual growth—should be checked by a podiatrist.
  4. Injuries: Whether it’s a sprain, strain, fracture, or any foot trauma, a podiatrist can provide appropriate treatment and prevent further complications.
  5. Diabetes or Circulatory Issues: Individuals with diabetes or circulatory problems should have regular check-ups with a podiatrist to prevent and manage foot-related complications.
  6. Foot and Ankle Arthritis: Podiatrists can help manage arthritis-related foot and ankle pain and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications and treatments.
  7. Athletic Injuries: If you’re an athlete experiencing foot or ankle pain or injuries due to sports activities, a podiatrist can offer specialized care.
  8. Ingrown Toenails: Painful ingrown toenails can be treated by a podiatrist to prevent infection and alleviate discomfort.
  9. Custom Orthotics or Footwear: For issues related to gait, alignment, or foot structure, a podiatrist can provide custom orthotics or recommend appropriate footwear.

Remember, if you’re unsure whether to see a podiatrist, it’s better to err on the side of caution and schedule an appointment. Even seemingly minor issues can sometimes indicate underlying problems that a podiatrist can address before they become more serious.

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.

heel pain

Common Causes Of Heel Pain

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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

Heel pain

Heel Pain Reasons

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Heel Pain

Heel pain can be caused by a number of different conditions. Some of the most common causes of heel pain include:

  1. Plantar fasciitis: This is the most common cause of heel pain. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is usually felt as a sharp pain in the heel when first getting up in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time.
  2. Achilles tendonitis: The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis is caused by overuse or strain of the tendon and is typically felt as a dull ache in the back of the heel.
  3. Heel spurs: Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the heel bone. They are often caused by long-term plantar fasciitis or other conditions that put stress on the heel bone.
  4. Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint. In the heel, bursitis can occur at the back of the heel or beneath the heel bone.
  5. Stress fractures: Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that are caused by repetitive stress or overuse. They are more common in athletes or people who do high-impact activities.
  6. Sever’s disease: This is a condition that affects growing children and adolescents. It is caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone.

If you are experiencing heel pain, it is important to see a doctor or a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Schedule visiting foot doctor appointment by calling:  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/

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

podiatrist near me

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.