Items filtered by date: February 2023

Many novices to the field of podiatry might already be familiar with the condition known as athlete’s foot. This particular foot affliction is contagious and develops through a fungal infection of the feet. A red rash on the skin is a common symptom of this foot condition. Many patients with athlete's foot are often curious as to how their condition might affect other parts of their body. Although the answer will vary from case to case and patient to patient, it is generally true that the condition can potentially spread to other parts of the body, such as the hands, if left untreated. Fortunately, this is not a very common occurrence. If you are someone that is living with athlete’s foot, it is suggested to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Naperville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Rigid flat feet are evident by the lack of arch while standing. Some people can see an arch when they’re sitting down which is referred to as flexible flat feet. Both conditions may cause the feet to feel achy, and there are specific stretches that may help to alleviate this. There are small muscles inside the foot that can improve the foot arch, and the short foot exercise may help to strengthen these muscles. This is done by keeping the foot on the floor while sitting in a chair, and sliding the front of the foot along the floor toward the heel. This is most effective when repeated up to ten times and after holding for several seconds. The calf stretch is a popular exercise to perform that may help to strengthen flat feet. This is done by standing against a wall, and extending one leg back until a gentle stretch is felt. If you would like more information about how to improve flat feet, please ask a podiatrist who can provide you with additional stretching techniques.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Naperville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The heel is unique. It is a cushion of fatty tissue that maintains its shape despite the pressure that is endured daily. Heel pain can occur from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly or standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Obesity may cause the heels to hurt and may be diminished when additional weight is shed. Some people are born with abnormal foot structures, and this may lead to chronic heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is a common condition of the heel that can cause pain and discomfort. A podiatrist can prescribe custom-made orthotics, which may help to provide relief, and surgery may be necessary for more severe cases. Children who participate in sporting activities may be prone to developing Sever’s disease. This condition affects the heels of children and young teenagers during growth spurts. If you have heel pain for any reason, it is strongly advised that you seek help from a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer treatment options that are correct for you.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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