Items filtered by date: March 2025

Clubfoot repair surgery is performed to improve the position and function of a foot and ankle affected by this birth condition. A podiatrist can determine if surgery is needed based on the severity of the deformity and prior treatment. During the clubfoot repair surgery, adjustments are made to the tendons to help the foot move into a more natural position. This may include lengthening the Achilles tendon. In some cases, small bone corrections may be required to support proper alignment. After surgery, a cast is placed on the baby’s foot to protect it and assist with healing. The cast is typically worn for several weeks and may need to be changed a few times. As the foot heals, follow-up care helps ensure the best possible outcome. While some stiffness may remain, surgery can greatly improve mobility and allow for an active lifestyle. If your child was born with clubfoot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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.

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the joint stretch or tear due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. This can result in pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. The severity of the injury varies, with mild ankle sprains involving slight ligament damage, while severe sprains cause significant instability. Without proper care, a sprained ankle may lead to long-term weakness or repeated injuries. A podiatrist can assess the extent of the ankle sprain through a thorough examination, and may recommend immobilization, supportive bracing, or in severe cases, surgery to restore stability. Persistent swelling, severe pain, or difficulty walking should prompt an immediate evaluation. People with a history of ankle injuries or underlying conditions that affect circulation or nerve function should seek professional care to prevent further complications. Proper recovery includes restoring strength and stability to reduce the risk of future sprains. If you suspect you have sprained an ankle, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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 Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.

Arthritis in the feet affects many people, with two major types being osteoarthritis, OA, and rheumatoid arthritis, RA. OA typically occurs due to wear and tear on the joints over time, while RA is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. Symptoms of both types of arthritis include pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced mobility in the feet, often making it difficult to walk or stand for long periods ot time. A podiatrist can help manage arthritis by providing treatment to alleviate pain and improve function. For OA, they may recommend custom orthotics to provide support and reduce pressure on the joints. In cases of RA, a podiatrist might work with other healthcare providers to manage inflammation with medications, and suggest foot exercises to maintain mobility. They can also offer advice on footwear, stretching routines, and, in more severe cases, consider surgical options. If you have arthritis in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and mangement solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. 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.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and intense pain. This condition commonly affects the big toe but can also involve other joints such as the ankles, knees, and wrists. Uric acid accumulates when the body produces too much of it or fails to eliminate it efficiently. Consuming foods high in purines, such as red meat and seafood, excessive alcohol intake, obesity, and certain medical conditions can contribute to the development of gout. Symptoms include severe joint pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the affected area. Episodes often occur unexpectedly and may last for several days. If you have developed this painful condition, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage gout.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.