Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form on the skin due to friction, pressure, or moisture, commonly occurring while hiking. They often develop when shoes rub against the foot, especially during long treks or with new or poorly fitting footwear. Preventing blisters begins with choosing the right socks made of moisture-wicking materials, breaking in new shoes gradually, and keeping feet dry throughout the hike. Proper foot care and attention to hotspots can significantly reduce the risk of painful blisters. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend suitable hiking footwear, provide protective padding, and offer guidance on prevention strategies tailored to your feet. If you have developed painful blisters on your feet from hiking, it  is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat them, and guide you on effective blister prevention tips.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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 growing children and often appears during growth spurts when the heel bone develops faster than the surrounding soft tissues. Symptoms may include stiffness, tenderness at the back of the heel, limping after activity, and swelling that can make the heel look slightly puffy or irritated. It may feel like a deep ache or sharp discomfort during running and jumping, and the child may avoid weight bearing on the affected side. Causes often relate to repetitive stress from sports, tight calf muscles, or biomechanical issues such as flat feet or high arches. A podiatrist can begin by assessing the child’s gait, examining the heel, and ruling out other conditions. Early diagnosis leads to effective treatment options, such as activity modification, heel cushions, stretching programs, and custom orthotics to reduce strain. Because timely care supports proper healing and comfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief tips.

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.

Plantar fasciitis develops when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated, often from repeated strain or limited flexibility in the surrounding muscles. Many people first notice a sharp or pulling sensation near the heel when getting out of bed or after sitting for a while. As the day goes on, the pain may ease, only to return after long periods of standing or increased activity. The condition can appear in anyone, especially those who spend long hours on their feet, have high or low arches, or wear shoes that lack steady support. Addressing the irritation early with stretching, wearing supportive footwear, and activity changes helps prevent the problem from becoming persistent. If heel discomfort continues or begins to interfere with daily movement, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper guidance.

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.

Spending most of the day standing can place steady pressure on the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Over time, this constant load may lead to aching arches, heel discomfort, swelling, or tight calf muscles. Some individuals also develop calluses, changes in posture, or fatigue that spreads into the knees or lower back. Hard floors, wearing unsupportive shoes, and limited opportunities to rest add to the strain and make recovery slower. Small changes such as choosing footwear with cushioning, taking brief seated breaks, and stretching during the day can help reduce stress on the feet. Paying attention to early signs of discomfort allows you to address concerns before they interfere with work or daily routines. If soreness becomes persistent or affects your movement, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for personalized care.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.

Anterior tibialis tendonitis occurs when the tendon that runs along the front of the ankle becomes irritated or inflamed from overuse or strain. This tendon connects the front of the shin to the top of the foot and is responsible for lifting the foot during walking. Repetitive running, jumping, or walking uphill can place excessive stress on this tendon. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support or are too tight can also increase tension in this area. People with flat feet, high arches, or muscle weakness in the lower leg are at higher risk of developing this condition. Symptoms include pain along the front of the ankle or top of the foot, swelling, and stiffness that worsens with movement. A podiatrist can help by examining the foot, ordering imaging, and recommending proper treatment. If you have pain in front of the ankle, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

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 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 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 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 is an infection that develops when fungi enter the nail through small cracks, causing changes in color, thickness, and texture. Risk factors include aging, excessive moisture, poor circulation, and a weakened immune system. Coexisting conditions such as diabetes and vascular disease increase vulnerability. Common symptoms include discoloration, crumbling edges, thick nails, and a foul odor. Causes often involve walking barefoot in damp public areas or wearing tight shoes that trap moisture. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, provide advanced treatment options, and prevent the infection from spreading. If you have signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions that will restore healthy nails and protect your overall foot health.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. 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.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

Clubfoot is a congenital condition in which a newborn’s foot is twisted out of its normal position, often turning inward or downward. The exact cause is not always known, but clubfoot may be related to genetic factors, abnormal fetal development, or limited space in the womb. Symptoms include a visibly misshapen foot, stiffness, and difficulty with normal movement as the child grows. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for proper development. A podiatrist can help by guiding specialized care that may include stretching, casting, bracing, or monitoring long-term foot function. Early intervention leads to better outcomes and improved mobility. If your child has signs of clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team to ensure healthy growth and support proper foot alignment.

Congenital foot problems require 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.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome 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 and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout, once known as a disease of indulgence, is becoming increasingly common as rates of obesity and high blood pressure climb. This painful condition occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, forming sharp crystals that settle in joints, most often the big toe. Sudden swelling, redness, and intense pain can make even a bed sheet feel unbearable. Excess weight and certain medications used for hypertension can raise uric acid levels, triggering more frequent attacks. A podiatrist can help identify gout through diagnostic testing, relieve pain during flare-ups, and create a personalized plan to prevent future episodes. This may include shoe recommendations, dietary guidance, and custom orthotics to ease pressure on sensitive joints. If you experience recurring pain in your toe or foot, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for evaluation and management.

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.