A dislocated toe occurs when the bones in a toe joint are forced out of alignment, often from a sudden impact, twist, or fall. This injury is common in sports and activities that involve jumping or quick direction changes. Symptoms include sharp pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty moving the toe, or a visible deformity. In some cases, a dislocation can occur along with a fracture. A podiatrist will examine the toe and confirm the injury with an X-ray to assess the position of the bones and check for any breaks. If the bones are out of place, a podiatrist may perform a closed reduction, a process that involves gently guiding the bones back into position. If the injury is more severe, surgery may be needed to restore joint alignment. Stabilization methods, such as splints or supportive footwear, may be used during recovery. If you are experiencing toe pain due to an injury or possible dislocation, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate 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 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 and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, often affecting the big toe. This condition leads to sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling. Risk factors include obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a diet high in red meat, seafood, and alcohol. Symptoms can come on quickly and may return if not properly managed. To reduce the risk of flare-ups, individuals are encouraged to consume low-purine foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the condition, managing pain, and offering long-term strategies. If you have gout attacks, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist to manage gout effectively and protect your joint health.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.

A stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that develops from repetitive force or overuse, often seen in the foot and ankle due to their weight-bearing role. Common causes include intense physical activity, improper footwear, or sudden increases in training. Risk factors include low bone density, poor nutrition, and foot abnormalities. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, tenderness, and discomfort that worsens with activity. These injuries can be difficult to detect without proper imaging. A podiatrist can assess symptoms, order diagnostic tests, and develop a treatment plan. This may involve rest, supportive footwear, or custom orthotics. If you have symptoms of a foot and ankle stress fracture, it is suggested that you confer with this type of doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please 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 and ankle needs.

Morton’s neuroma is a nerve condition that often affects the ball of the foot, typically between the third and fourth toes. Common symptoms include sharp or burning foot pain, tingling, and numbness that may worsen with walking or wearing tight shoes. Many people describe the sensation as feeling like a pebble or small object is stuck inside the shoe. Causes include repeated pressure on the forefoot,  improper footwear, and biomechanical foot problems. Risk factors include wearing high heels, intense physical activity, and foot deformities like bunions or flat feet. A podiatrist can diagnose this condition and recommend effective treatment. If you experience persistent foot discomfort, it is strongly suggested that you seek care from this type of doctor to find relief and prevent further complications.

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.

Flat feet, also called fallen arches, can contribute to foot, ankle, and lower leg discomfort due to poor arch support and misalignment. In some cases, a series of exercises for flat feet may help strengthen the arch and surrounding muscles. These include movements that raise the arch, such as controlled heel lifts and arch raises, which help activate the muscles on the inside of the foot. Toe-based exercises may also be advised to improve strength in the forefoot and toes. A podiatrist may suggest specific routines that target foot posture and stability, including stair-based arch lifts or exercises using resistance like towel curls. These activities work to improve arch height and may reduce stress on the foot structure. In more severe cases, custom orthotics or surgery also may be considered. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of your feet and design a treatment that improves function and relieves discomfort. If you have pain from flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . 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 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 ball of the foot, often called metatarsalgia, can result from repeated stress or pressure on the front of the foot. This discomfort is frequently caused by high-impact activities, such as running or jumping. Wearing tight shoes, especially those that lack proper support or cushioning, are other factors. Structural issues and deformities like high arches, bunions, or hammertoes may also increase pressure on the heads of the metatarsals, which are the long bones that connect to the toes. Arthritis, gout, or Morton’s neuroma can also lead to pain in the ball of the foot. Symptoms of metatarsalgia include a burning or aching sensation, numbness, or the feeling of walking on a small pebble. A podiatrist can examine the foot, assess your gait, and use imaging to rule out fractures or nerve issues. Treatment may involve custom orthotics, footwear changes, or, in rare cases, surgery to relieve pressure or correct bone alignment. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot 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.

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 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.

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in children and young teens, especially those who participate in sports. It is not actually a disease but a growth-related condition that affects the heel’s growth plate. As the foot grows, the Achilles tendon can pull on the developing heel bone, causing pain and swelling. Running and jumping often make it worse, and the heel may feel sore to the touch. The pain usually comes and goes, and may be more noticeable after activity. Rest and stretching can help ease symptoms. Wearing supportive shoes or heel cushions may also reduce strain. Most children outgrow the condition once their bones finish growing. If your child complains of heel pain during or after sports, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet can be a sign of various underlying health issues and should not be ignored. One common cause is water retention, where excess fluid builds up in the tissues due to poor circulation or kidney function. Consuming too much sodium can also cause the body to hold onto water, leading to noticeable swelling in the feet and ankles. Protein deficiency is another factor, as protein helps maintain fluid balance within the blood vessels. When levels are low, fluid can leak into surrounding tissues. Heart failure can cause swelling as the heart struggles to pump blood effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities. Cirrhosis, or severe liver damage, can further disrupt the body’s ability to manage fluids, contributing to persistent swelling in the feet and legs. If you notice your feet have become swollen, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and treat it accordingly.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please 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 and ankle needs.

Cuboid syndrome is a condition where the cuboid bone, located on the outer side of the foot, becomes partially dislocated or misaligned. This often results in pain and difficulty bearing weight. It commonly occurs in athletes and individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive stress on the foot, especially during lateral movements. Causes can include ankle sprains, overuse injuries, or an abrupt change in activity levels. The syndrome may also develop due to poor foot biomechanics or wearing unsupportive footwear. Diagnosing cuboid syndrome can be challenging because it does not always show up on imaging studies. Podiatrists typically rely on a thorough history and physical examination, focusing on tenderness over the cuboid and reproduction of symptoms with specific foot movements. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat your condition.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.