Ankle arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat various ankle joint conditions, such as cartilage damage or ankle impingement. Small incisions allow an arthroscope to visualize the joint and perform repairs, reducing recovery time compared to traditional surgery. Recovery from ankle arthroscopy typically involves some rest to minimize swelling. Patients may resume driving within a few weeks and return to work or sports within four to eight weeks, depending on individual progress and the nature of activities. For personalized guidance on post-operative care and to ensure optimal recovery, consulting a podiatrist is a wise idea. This type of doctor provides specialized expertise in foot and ankle health, ensuring thorough rehabilitation and long-term joint function. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for tailored advice and support throughout your ankle arthroscopy recovery journey.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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 care needs.

Experiencing pain on the top of the foot is a common issue among runners and active individuals. One cause of this discomfort is extensor tendonitis, an inflammation of the extensor tendons responsible for lifting and straightening the toes. These tendons are vulnerable to injury because they lack protection from bones, muscles, or fatty tissue. Factors that place undue stress on the tendons include tight calf muscles, overtraining without adequate rest, and wearing improperly fitting shoes. Symptoms of extensor tendonitis include pain on the top of the foot during movement, swelling, and sometimes a visible bump along the tendon. Adjusting the way you lace your shoes can help to alleviate pressure on the top of the foot. If pain persists, it may indicate conditions, such as metatarsal stress fractures, atypical gout, or degenerative arthritis. Proper diagnosis from a podiatrist can address the root cause of the pain. If you are experiencing pain on top of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Fox Valley Foot and Ankle Specialists. 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 office located in Naperville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A foot orthosis is a custom-made medical device designed to support, align, and improve the function of the foot. It is typically inserted into footwear to provide additional support and correct biomechanical issues. Foot orthoses are used to address a variety of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, and arthritis. By redistributing pressure and providing cushioning, they alleviate pain, enhance stability, and prevent further injury. These devices are beneficial for individuals with chronic foot pain, athletes seeking to enhance performance, and those with structural abnormalities that affect their gait. Crafted from materials like EVA foam, plastic, or carbon fiber, foot orthoses are tailored to the individual's needs. If you have a foot condition or one of the above foot ailments, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can determine whether wearing orthotics is right for you.

Custom orthotics and shoe inserts are not just for cushioning the soles; they are about supporting the foundation of our body - our feet. The advantages extend far beyond immediate relief from discomfort. These personalized solutions, that Our doctors can prescribe, can significantly impact a person’s posture, alleviate pain in various parts of the body, and even enhance athletic performance.

As we lace up our shoes each day, having the right support can make a world of difference. Custom orthotics are like tailored suites for our feet, offering a bespoke solution to address our unique biomechanical needs. They provide stability where it is lacking, correct imbalances, and ensure that every step is a confident and pain-free one. 

Custom orthotics and shoe inserts offer long-term health benefits. By addressing issues such as overpronation or underpronation, heel pain, plantar fasciitis, etc. orthotics can help prevent injuries and mitigate the progression of existing conditions. It’s an investment not just in the present, but in the future health of your feet and consequently, your overall well-being. 

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.

A tailor's bunion, also known as a bunionette, is a bony protrusion on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe. This condition occurs due to the misalignment of the fifth metatarsal bone, often caused by inherited structural abnormalities, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, or repetitive stress on the foot. Unlike the more well-known bunion, which affects the inside of the foot at the base of the big toe, a tailor's bunion affects the outer side of the foot. Both conditions can cause pain, swelling, and redness, but a tailor's bunion specifically impacts the small toe area. To manage a tailor's bunion, wear properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box, use padding to reduce pressure, and consider orthotic inserts for better foot alignment. Non-surgical treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medications can alleviate symptoms. In severe cases, surgery may be required to correct the deformity. Proper diagnosis is essential, as tailor's bunions can be confused with other issues like hammertoes or arthritis. For an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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 care needs.