A plantar fibroma is a firm, noncancerous growth that forms within the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot. It can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty walking, especially when pressure is applied. When conservative treatments fail, surgery may be recommended to remove the fibroma and relieve tension on the surrounding tissue. The procedure involves making an incision in the sole of the foot to carefully remove the fibrous mass while preserving healthy structures. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, recommend appropriate treatment, and guide recovery after surgery. If you have a plantar fibroma, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss treatment options with you, which may include surgery for permanent removal.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Ankle pain while running can affect performance and increase the risk of injury, if not properly addressed. Choosing the right running shoes with good support and cushioning can help reduce stress on the joints. Learning proper running techniques, such as landing softly and maintaining good posture, helps prevent unnecessary strain. Additionally, stretching before and after running improves flexibility and reduces tightness in the muscles and tendons surrounding the ankle. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, gait, and footwear to identify the source of pain and create a personalized treatment or prevention plan. If you have ankle pain and enjoy running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions, enabling you to return to running comfortably and safely.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries? 
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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

When arthritis develops in the toes, the joints can become swollen, achy and less flexible, making everyday movement harder. The condition happens as the smooth cushioning inside the joint wears down, which allows the bones to grind together. This can create discomfort, stiffness, and sometimes visible changes in the way the toes look or bend. Many people find it painful to walk long distances, stand for extended periods of time, or wear certain shoes. Age, past injuries, and inherited traits can all increase the likelihood of arthritis in the toes. While it cannot be cured, there are effective ways to manage it. Wearing supportive footwear, custom orthotics, targeted stretching exercises, anti-inflammatory treatments, and, in some cases, surgery may ease symptoms and improve mobility. If toe pain is limiting your comfort or activity, it is recommended that you visit a podiatrist for a personalized treatment plan.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors 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 Northwest Chicago, Southwest Chicago, and Wicker Park, Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper diabetic foot care is essential for preventing serious complications, such as infections, foot ulcers, and even limb loss. Diabetes can cause poor circulation and nerve damage, making it harder to feel injuries and allowing them to worsen unnoticed. Daily foot inspections, proper hygiene, moisturizing, and wearing protective footwear are vital steps to maintain health. A podiatrist plays a key role by monitoring foot health, treating wounds, and recommending specialized footwear or orthotics to prevent pressure points. Regular checkups help detect issues early and protect long term-mobility. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward proactive strategies, helping you to manage this serious condition.

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 one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors 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 Northwest Chicago, Southwest Chicago, and Wicker Park, Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.