Items filtered by date: April 2024

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot or lower leg, typically resulting from overuse or repetitive force. Athletes or those engaging in high-impact sports like running, basketball, or dance are more likely to get stress fractures. These injuries can also occur in people who suddenly increase their physical activity without proper conditioning, or those with poor nutrition or weakened bones. One of the main symptoms of a stress fracture is a sharp pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. The affected area is often sensitive to the touch and may show signs of swelling. The pain is typically localized, making it feel worse during movements that put stress on the specific bone. Preventing stress fractures involves gradually increasing activity levels, wearing appropriate footwear, and incorporating strength training to enhance bone density. If a stress fracture is suspected, a podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis with imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans. The doctor may recommend rest, possibly immobilization, and a gradual return to activity to ensure proper healing and prevent further injury. If you suspect a stress fracture, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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.

Swelling in the feet, otherwise known as edema, has a range of mild to severe causes. Mild edema may result from standing or sitting for long periods, especially in hot weather. This causes fluid to pool in the lower extremities. Swelling can also be a side effect of certain medications, hormonal changes, or dietary factors like excessive salt intake. In more severe cases, edema may be a sign of underlying medical conditions, such as heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency. In these cases, the body’s fluid balance is off, leading to fluid retention and swelling in the feet and ankles. Certain injuries, infections, or blood clots in the legs can also cause localized edema. Podiatrists, or foot doctors, can diagnose the underlying cause of foot swelling. They may recommend lifestyle modifications, compression therapy, medication management, or other treatments to address the cause. If you have swelling in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to find relief.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Onychomycosis, commonly known as toenail fungus, is a fungal infection that affects the toenails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and brittleness. This condition occurs when dermatophyte fungi invade the nail bed, typically thriving in warm, moist environments such as sweaty shoes or communal showers. Additionally, yeast and mold can also contribute to the development of onychomycosis. Several factors increase the risk of contracting this infection, including aging, poor circulation, and a weakened immune system. Other factors include trauma to the nail and pre-existing conditions like diabetes or athlete's foot. Furthermore, habits such as walking barefoot in public areas or sharing nail grooming tools can facilitate fungal transmission. Onychomycosis not only affects the aesthetic appearance of the nails but can also cause discomfort, pain, and difficulty in walking if left untreated. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer you treatment options which often include prescribed medication for complete healing.

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 Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor 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 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.

Daily habits for diabetic foot care are essential to prevent complications that can arise from diabetes, such as infections and ulcers. Regular inspection of the feet for cuts, blisters, or red spots can help address any issues head-on. It is also important the feet are kept clean and moisturized, while avoiding lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infection. Proper shoe choice can enhance comfort and prevent blisters. It is helpful not to walk barefoot to reduce the risk of injury. Additionally, managing blood sugar levels helps maintain healthy circulation and nerve function in the feet. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist play a key role in diabetic foot care. These foot doctors can professionally assess the health of your feet, provide specialized care for any issues detected, and offer personalized advice on proper foot care practices. These visits help in early detection and treatment of potential foot problems, reducing the risk of serious complications. If you are a diabetic patient at risk for foot complications, it is suggested that along with daily foot care, you add a podiatrist to your health care team. 

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 Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor 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 West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Properly fitting shoes help you maintain foot health and avoid a range of foot conditions, including bunions, calluses, and plantar fasciitis. To ensure that your shoes fit correctly, start by shopping in the late afternoon or evening, as feet tend to swell throughout the day. This will help you find a size that accommodates your feet when they are at their largest. Make sure to have both feet measured, as it is common for one foot to be slightly larger than the other. Choose the size that fits the larger foot comfortably. There should be about a thumb's width of space between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe to allow for movement and expansion as you walk. The shoe should fit snugly around the heel and midfoot, without being too tight. This will prevent slippage that could lead to blisters or calluses. Choose shoes with a wide toe box that allows your toes to spread naturally without constriction. Also, consider the shoe's material and arch support, especially if you have specific foot conditions or needs. Podiatrists can provide suggestions for the best shoes for your feet, especially if you are suffering from particular foot conditions. It is suggested that you discuss this topic with a podiatrist to reduce the risk of developing foot problems and enhance your overall foot comfort and health.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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 and ankle needs.