Patients who have pain on the outside of their feet may have developed cuboid syndrome. This condition can happen by incurring an injury that affects the cuboid bone. This bone is one of seven tarsal bones that connect to the toes and heel and contributes to a normal gait or walking style. Cuboid syndrome may be prevalent among runners and ballet dancers due to its repetitive impact. Additionally, it may occur in people who run on uneven surfaces or wear shoes that do not have adequate support. The common symptoms that are experienced can include ankle pain that is sudden or gradual, and the entire foot may be tender or sore. An X-ray can help rule out a fracture. Typically, the activity that caused the pain must be stopped and the affected foot should be elevated as often as possible. The healing process may be accelerated when non-impact exercises are performed as this can help strengthen the entire foot. If you have pain along the outside of your foot please consult a podiatrist who can determine if cuboid syndrome is the cause as well as provide effective treatment techniques.

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.

There is a portion of tissue on the bottom of the foot that is called the plantar fascia. It connects the heel to the toes and is instrumental in helping the foot flex while walking, running, and completing other daily activities. An injury may cause the plantar fascia to tear, possibly resulting in plantar fasciitis. It may also occur from overuse that can happen from running or standing on uneven surfaces. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation that can cause severe pain and discomfort, and may affect the Achilles tendon in the calf. It may also be caused by wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, having an abnormal foot structure, or from weight that has been gained. Common symptoms may include foot pain after sitting or standing for a long period of time, and difficulty in climbing the steps. Additionally, the pain may be more severe after arising in the morning, as the first few steps are taken. If you have foot pain, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose plantar fasciitis, and guide you toward the correct treatment techniques.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best 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.

As painful as a plantar wart can be, it is considered to be a harmless skin growth. It is a small area of hardened skin that is sometimes filled with black dots, which are blood vessels. It is caused by a fungus and develops on the sole of the foot. It generally grows inward as a result of the pressure the bottom of the foot endures from body weight. Many people experience extreme discomfort with a plantar wart and often look for prompt medical attention for relief. They are considered to be contagious, and it is beneficial to refrain from sharing towels, shoes, and socks. Medicine may be prescribed that can freeze the wart, or for stubborn plantar warts, surgery may be necessary for removal. It is beneficial to choose shoes that are comfortable, and avoid wearing any type of shoe that puts pressure on the heels. Some patients find it helpful to put a protective covering over the wart which may help to ease the pressure that is felt from walking. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is strongly urged that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can guide you toward the necessary treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate 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.

A well-fitting shoe is the most important consideration when selecting shoes for an aging foot. Seniors should be particularly mindful of having their feet measured when they buy shoes as the foot changes as aging occurs. The arch can fall, and the foot can become longer and wider. Issues with the forefoot are common in seniors and properly fit shoes, with sufficient room in the toe box, will help in preventing pain in this area as well as problems with toenails and bunions. Shoe quality varies by brand and just because a shoe fits in one size with one brand or model does not mean it will when considering another brand or model. Visiting a podiatrist is helpful in understanding the right shoes for your feet as you age.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, 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.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.

Wearing high heels can cause various foot issues in women. Corns, Morton’s neuroma, and bunions are common conditions that can happen from frequently wearing high heels, and this can be a result of not having enough room for the toes to move freely in. Some women may develop toenail fungus from the constant pressure the nails endure as they are forced to lie against the front of the shoe. Additionally, the Achilles tendon may become shorter from the angle of the shoe, which can lead to developing plantar fasciitis or heel spurs. People who wear high heels may have an increased risk of falling and incurring an ankle injury from losing their balance. An alternative for wearing these types of stylish shoes may be to choose shoes that are wider in the toe area, and have a lower heel. If you have concerns about the possible foot conditions that can develop from wearing high heels, please contact a podiatrist who can answer any questions you may have.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.

Many problems can affect the Achilles tendon. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon is known as Achilles Tendonitis and is the most common injury to this site. It is generally caused by intense or excessive physical activity. If this condition is not treated properly, other afflictions can develop, such as Achilles tendinopathy where there is degeneration or damage to the collagen in the Achilles tendon, Achilles tendinosis where there are micro-tears to the tendon, and an Achilles tendon rupture where there is a partial or complete tear to the tendon. Symptoms of Achilles tendon issues include tightness, pain, weakness, and mobility issues. A variety of exercises can be done to generate healing and improve mobility. If you suffer from Achilles tendon discomfort, you should seek the counsel of a podiatrist for proper a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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 Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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.

Most running injuries are caused by overuse, overtraining, improper footwear, and problems with biomechanics. Overtraining can be described as adding speed or distance too quickly, which can lead to overuse injuries like stress fractures and tendonitis. Experts recommend adding no more than 10 percent a week to the schedule. Another source of running injuries is wearing running shoes that either do not fit properly or have worn out. The wrong type of shoe for your foot can affect the gait, which can lead to injury. Also, shoes that are worn down or lack proper cushioning can cause pain in the feet, such as plantar fasciitis. Replacing shoes every 350-500 miles is recommended, and alternating pairs is thought to be beneficial. The way you run can also put you at risk. Striking with the heel first can cause shin splints and joint pain. Awareness of foot placement and body alignment are also important factors to be considered. Even the way you tilt your head can affect your muscles and breathing. For more information on avoiding running injuries, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist for guidance.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. 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

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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.

If your feet feel cold during or right after exercising, when the rest of your body feels warm, it may be a sign that something is wrong. It can be as simple as wearing shoes or socks that are too tight and restrict proper blood flow to the feet. Cold feet after exercising may also be caused by more serious underlying conditions, such as diabetes or peripheral artery disease. Falling or bumping into something during exercise also may cause the feet to become cold. In addition, fractures, bone spurs, or cysts may cause numbness and cold feet. Whatever the cause, having cold feet after exercise is not something to ignore. First, check your footwear to make sure it fits properly and is not laced too tightly. Next, check your feet for any sores or cuts that may have formed. If ignored, these can turn into ulcers. Foot cramps at night or pain that gets worse if your feet are elevated can also be warning signs. If getting cold feet after exercising becomes a common occurrence, it may be wise to visit a podiatrist for an exam, a diagnosis, and a treatment plan.  

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.

Many individuals across the country start their day with a hot cup of coffee. Fewer people, however, are aware of the interesting connection that coffee has with a foot condition known as gout. Gout is a particular kind of arthritis that primarily affects the big toe joint. Among people who do not already have gout, some individuals who consistently drank coffee over time experienced low risks of gout. However, among those who do already suffer from gout, sporadically drinking coffee might make you more susceptible to experiencing gout attacks. Therefore, coffee has an interesting, yet not immediately intuitive connection to one’s susceptibility to gout. If you have gout or want to learn more about its connection to coffee, contact a podiatrist today.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. 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 type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.