We are happy to announce that our second office is now opened!
It is located at: 1585 Barrington Rd. Building 2, Suite 103, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169. (Opened Tuesday's Only)
Walk-Ins Welcome!

Items filtered by date: September 2022

Tuesday, 27 September 2022 00:00

Diagnosing Sesamoiditis

Many people may not know that there are two pea-shaped bones located under the big toe that are known as the sesamoids. When the tendons that are attached to these bones become inflamed from overuse of the front of the foot, a condition known as sesamoiditis can occur. Individuals with sesamoiditis can experience pain in the ball of their feet where the affected sesamoids are located, and they might find it difficult to point their toes. There are several things that a medical professional might do to diagnose a case of sesamoiditis. First, a physical examination will be performed on the affected area, analyzing the movement and flexibility of the big toe. If sesamoiditis is likely in a patient, then an X-ray might be performed to get a better sense of the state of the patient’s bones. In some cases, bone scans might be even more helpful, as these images make more things visible than X-rays. If you have sesamoiditis, do not hesitate to consult with a podiatrist.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact one of our podiatrists of Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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 and ankle needs.

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Friday, 23 September 2022 00:00

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Tuesday, 20 September 2022 00:00

Exercises for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It occurs when a thick band of tissue, plantar fascia, that runs from the toes to the heel under the foot becomes inflamed. It causes a stabbing pain when you get up in the morning, but usually diminishes throughout the day. A number of exercises can help to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia, thereby reducing pain. To stretch the area, first, while sitting in a chair, lift the big toe upward and gently massage the bottom of the foot. Repeat three or four times. Second, roll a tennis ball under your foot, back and forth. Third, standing up and holding onto a chair or wall for balance, push the toe of one foot against the heel of the other, stretching it. Hold for 30 seconds and then switch feet. Repeat. To strengthen the plantar fascia, sit in a chair and place a towel on the floor. Grab the towel with the toes and hold for 30 seconds. Change feet. This can also be done with a pencil. For more information on how to alleviate the pain of plantar fasciitis, please consult with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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.

 

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Shoes may not feel comfortable and can lead to uncomfortable foot conditions if they are not the right size. That’s why getting the right shoe size can make it easier to complete daily activities. Research has indicated that approximately half of adults are wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, and this may be from the lack of knowledge of how to properly buy shoes. It is beneficial to shop for shoes at the end of the day, when the feet are at their largest. Additionally, it can help to wear the socks that would be worn with the shoes, and this may ensure a better fit. There are various methods of determining your correct shoe size. Many people choose to use the Brannock device which is found in the majority of shoe stores. There are some people who find it effective to place their foot on a piece of paper, and trace the outline of their foot. This is followed by measuring the outline with a ruler, and this will provide an approximate size by using a conversion chart. The width of the foot is just as important to measure as the length, and must be taken into consideration for a proper fit. If you have additional questions about how to measure your foot to purchase the correct size shoes, please address your concerns with a podiatrist who can provide the information that you require.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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.

Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy
Wednesday, 07 September 2022 00:00

Types of Foot Ulcers

Research has indicated there are millions of Americans that live with chronic wounds and some may produce foot pain. A common foot wound is a diabetic foot ulcer which often results from diabetes and neuropathy. They generally develop on the sole of the foot or on the big toe. Additional types of wounds on the feet include a venous stasis ulcer which is caused by damaged veins. If there is arterial insufficiency, an arterial ulcer may develop and can be found on the tips of the toes or between them. When improper shoes are worn or there is a lack of movement, a pressure ulcer can form in the heel or ankle. There are several methods that can help prevent wounds on the feet like refraining from walking barefoot, washing and drying the feet daily, and moisturizing the soles of the feet when they are damp. It is also beneficial to prevent the feet from being extremely hot or cold. It is important to examine the feet every day for existing cuts, bruises, and scrapes. If you would like more information about foot ulcers and how to prevent them, please confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists  from Itasca Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 offices located in Itasca and Hoffman Estates, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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