Toenail fungus is a common infection that develops when fungi enter the nail through small cracks or separations. Affected nails may look thickened or discolored, and may become brittle, crumbly, or misshapen over time. The nail can feel tender, sensitive to pressure, or uncomfortable in shoes, although some people notice changes in appearance before pain. Causes include damp environments, sweaty footwear, nail injuries, and medical conditions, such as diabetes. A podiatrist can help from the start by accurately diagnosing the infection and ruling out other nail disorders. Early treatment may include prescription topical or oral medications, nail thinning, and hygiene guidance. Care can then progress into advanced therapies, ongoing monitoring, and preventive strategies to reduce recurrence and protect nail health. Treating toenail fungus early can improve comfort, appearance, and overall foot health. If you think you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Itasca and Hoffman Estates, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing comfortable shoes is essential for employees in all professions, whether work involves standing, walking, or sitting for long periods of time. Proper footwear supports the feet, promotes good posture, and helps reduce strain on the joints and lower back. When shoes feel comfortable and sensible, employees are more likely to stay focused, energized, and productive throughout the day. Uncomfortable footwear can lead to fatigue, pain, and decreased performance over time. Comfortable shoes should offer supportive cushioning, stable soles, and a proper fit that allows natural movement. A podiatrist can help evaluate foot health, recommend appropriate footwear, and provide custom orthotics, when needed. If you have foot pain during your work day, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on appropriate shoes to wear while working.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Itasca and Hoffman Estates, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People with diabetes face a higher risk of developing foot ulcers. The reason for this is that reduced sensation in the toes and feet often makes minor injuries go unnoticed. At the same time, poor circulation in the lower limbs can slow healing. As a result, small cuts, rubbing from shoes with inadequate support, or pressure from bunions or calluses can create openings in the skin that break down into deeper sores. Once an ulcer forms, infection is more likely because weakened skin barriers do not repair quickly. Severe cases can lead to even deeper tissue damage and, if left untreated can lead to limb loss. A podiatrist can check nerve function, assess circulation, treat existing foot problems, and recommend ways to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas to lower the chance of ulcers forming. If you have foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and managed care.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Walking and running shoes are designed differently to match how the feet move during each activity. Walking shoes usually have a flatter shape with flexible soles that support a smooth heel to toe motion. Running shoes are often more curved and lightweight to absorb higher impact forces. Support also varies, as walking shoes focus on stability, while running shoes provide added structure to control motion during faster strides. Cushioning is typically firmer in walking shoes, while running shoes offer more shock absorption to protect joints from repeated impact. Choosing the wrong shoe can lead to foot, ankle, or knee discomfort. A podiatrist can help by evaluating gait, foot structure, and activity level to recommend proper footwear or custom orthotics. If foot pain or fatigue occurs during walking or running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on the correct shoes to wear for your desired activity. 

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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