Items filtered by date: November 2024

Lingering pain after a broken ankle can be frustrating and concerning for many individuals. Several factors may contribute to this ongoing discomfort. Incomplete healing is one common cause, and if the bone has not fully mended, pain can persist during movement. Scar tissue formation surrounding the injury site may also lead to sensitivity and discomfort. Additionally, stiffness in the ankle joint from immobilization can contribute to lingering pain, affecting mobility and range of motion. Other possible causes include arthritis developing at the fracture site and tendonitis, resulting from overuse as activities are resumed. Psychological factors such as fear of re-injury can amplify the perception of pain. If you have continued pain from a fractured ankle, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective relief insights.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
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.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

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.

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

A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is a bony prominence that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to angle towards the second toe. This condition can lead to significant discomfort and pain, especially when wearing shoes. Bunions develop gradually and are often caused by factors such as genetic predisposition, which influences foot structure, and wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear that places pressure on the toes. Other contributing factors include arthritis, flat feet, and repetitive stress from certain activities. As the bunion progresses, the surrounding soft tissue may become inflamed, resulting in redness and swelling. Understanding the causes of bunions is essential for prevention and management, as making appropriate footwear choices and addressing foot mechanics can help reduce discomfort and slow the progression of this common foot condition. If you see the beginning signs of a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . 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 offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a condition characterized by an abnormal bending of the toe at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This deformity often arises due to an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control the toe's position. Common causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, particularly those with narrow toe boxes, which can exacerbate the issue. Other contributing factors may involve inherited foot structure, arthritis, or previous injuries to the toes. Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing hammertoe, such as age, as the condition is more prevalent in older adults, and lifestyle choices that include frequent use of high-heeled or tight footwear. Hammertoe can be uncomfortable and unsightly. If you see the beginning signs of hammertoe or have pain from an existing hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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