Items filtered by date: July 2024

Bunions, along with other common foot issues, can significantly impact daily life. Symptoms of bunions include a bony bump at the base of the big toe, redness, swelling, and pain, which worsens with pressure from shoes. Corns and calluses may also develop due to friction. Treatment options vary based on severity. Mild cases may benefit from changes in footwear, padding, or orthotic inserts to alleviate pressure. Stretching exercises and ice packs can help manage pain and inflammation. In more severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary to realign the toe joint and relieve discomfort. It's important to address foot issues promptly to prevent them from worsening. Visiting a podiatrist ensures an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Whether it is bunions, corns, or any other foot concern, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to get professional advice and treatment.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Warren Levy, DPM of Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Recovery from a Jones fracture, which is a break in the pinky toe, or 5th metatarsal, involves a structured treatment plan under the guidance of a podiatrist. This type of fracture commonly results from a forceful impact, such as landing awkwardly from a jump or repetitive stress from running. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and bruising on the outside of the foot, in addition to difficulty bearing weight. Upon diagnosis, which usually involves having an X-ray taken, the initial treatment focuses on realigning the bone and immobilizing the foot with a cast. In severe cases, surgery might be necessary, and a period of non-weight-bearing will follow. This usually involves using crutches or a walker, and, after six to eight weeks, the cast is removed. At that point specific exercises to restore range of motion and strengthen the muscles surrounding your foot and ankle are prescribed. As healing progresses, the podiatrist will likely introduce balance and functional exercises to help you return to normal activities. If you are experiencing toe pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options. 

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome causes significant ankle pain, resulting from the compression of the posterior tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. This narrow space on the inside of the ankle acts as a passageway for nerves, tendons, and blood vessels between the foot and the back of the leg. Compression of the tarsal tunnel can lead to burning or tingling sensations, numbness, and sharp, shooting pain along the path of the tibial nerve. Causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include trauma, systemic diseases, or other factors, though in many cases, the exact cause remains unknown. Diagnosis by a podiatrist typically involves a combination of patient history, clinical examination, nerve conduction studies, and imaging techniques to accurately assess the extent and origin of the nerve entrapment. Conservative treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications and rest. In more severe cases, surgery may be suggested as a way to alleviate the symptoms. Early treatment can help to prevent the progression of tarsal tunnel syndrome and avoid permanent nerve damage. If you are experiencing pain on the inside of the ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Warren Levy, DPM of Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A sprained ankle occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear due to sudden twisting, rolling, or turning of the foot. This injury is common in sports, walking on uneven surfaces, or missteps that put the ankle in an awkward position. Symptoms of a sprained ankle can include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot. You might also hear a popping sound at the time of the injury. To determine if you have a sprain, pay attention to the severity of pain and swelling, any instability in the ankle, and whether the pain worsens with movement. Initial treatment for a sprained ankle involves rest, compression, and elevation. Avoid putting weight on the ankle and consider using crutches. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers can help manage pain and discomfort. Proper rehabilitation, including targeted stretching exercises, is essential for healing and preventing future injuries. If you think you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Warren Levy, DPM of Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Identifying common foot problems is essential for maintaining optimum foot health and overall mobility. Issues such as bunions, characterized by a bony bump at the base of the big toe, and plantar fasciitis, marked by heel pain due to inflammation, are frequent concerns. Athlete's foot presents with itching, burning, and cracked skin between the toes. Corns and calluses, resulting from repeated pressure or friction, appear as thickened, hardened skin. Ingrown toenails, where the nail grows into the surrounding skin, cause pain and swelling. Foot pain or discomfort, visible deformities, persistent swelling, and changes in skin or nail appearance are clear indicators of these conditions. Early recognition and appropriate treatment, such as wearing proper footwear, maintaining hygiene, and seeking medical advice from a podiatrist are good ways to prevent complications. If you have any type of foot pain or condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.