Items filtered by date: February 2024

Managing chronic ankle pain after spraining an ankle can be frustrating, but there are effective treatments that can help alleviate discomfort and enhance recovery. A podiatrist will typically conduct a thorough assessment to understand the specific issues contributing to the chronic pain. Treatment may involve targeted exercises to strengthen the ankle, improve flexibility, and enhance overall stability. Supportive interventions, like ankle braces or orthotic inserts, can provide additional support, promoting proper alignment and reducing strain on the affected area. Podiatrists may also recommend anti-inflammatory medications to manage pain. Rehabilitation plans are tailored toward the individual and their unique injury, addressing the root cause of the ankle pain. If you are experiencing pain after an ankle sprain, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine your ankle and create the right treatment plan for you. 

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . 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 tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• 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 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.

Plantar digital neuroma, also known as Morton's neuroma, is characterized by the thickening of the tissue surrounding the nerves that run between the toes, most often affecting the area between the third and fourth toes. This thickening can cause compression and irritation of the nerve, leading to pain and discomfort. Individuals with plantar digital neuroma typically experience sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot, tingling or numbness in the toes, and the sensation of standing on a pebble or fold in a sock. Pain may worsen with walking, wearing tight or narrow shoes, or squeezing the forefoot. The discomfort associated with Morton’s neuroma can be disruptive to daily activities and may worsen over time if left untreated. Recognizing the symptoms of plantar digital neuroma is essential for seeking proper diagnosis and treatment to alleviate pain and restore foot health. If you have pain or discomfort between your third and fourth toes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can confirm Morton's neuroma, and offer correct treatment solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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.

Pain in the pinky toe, though seemingly small, can be a significant source of discomfort, and understanding the potential causes is critical for effective resolution. Wearing ill-fitting footwear emerges as a frequent culprit, as tight shoes or those with narrow toe boxes can compress the pinky toe, leading to friction, irritation, and pain. Stubbing the pinky toe against furniture or other objects is another common cause of acute pain, often accompanied by swelling and bruising. Structural issues such as hammertoes or corns can contribute to ongoing discomfort, creating pressure points on the pinky toe. Additionally, overuse or strain from activities like running or prolonged standing may result in muscle or ligament injuries around the pinky toe. Identifying the specific cause of pinky toe pain is essential for implementing appropriate interventions. If you have pinky toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate relief and treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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.

Toenail fungus, medically termed onychomycosis or tinea unguium, is a common fungal infection that affects approximately 14 percent of people, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. While typically not a serious health concern, toenail fungus can cause cosmetic issues as well as discomfort. There are various types of toenail fungus, each with distinct characteristics in symptoms and appearance. The most prevalent form is subungual onychomycosis, characterized by nail lifting, discoloration, and crumbling of the toenail. White superficial onychomycosis causes white, flaky patches on the nail surface, potentially progressing to rough and crumbly nails. Candida onychomycosis, caused by yeast, is more common in individuals with conditions like diabetes or compromised immune systems. This type of toenail fungus shows symptoms such as rough nails, surface breakdown, and soft tissue infection. An accurate diagnosis by a podiatrist is essential to determine the type of toenail fungus you may have incurred. With proper care and timely intervention, toenail fungus can be effectively managed. If you suspect you have a toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options appropriate to the cause.

For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.