Items filtered by date: August 2023

Bunions are bony protrusions at the base of the big toe that can not only be unsightly, but also painful. Managing bunions involves a combination of self care and professional guidance. Begin by wearing well-fitting shoes with ample room for your toes and avoiding high heels and pointy shoes that exacerbate pressure on the bunion. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can provide temporary relief. Wearing custom orthotic inserts can alleviate discomfort by redistributing pressure. Regularly performing gentle toe stretches and exercises can improve flexibility and strength. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be considered. With a proactive approach, you can successfully manage bunions and maintain your foot health. If the bunion causes persistent pain or interferes with daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief and treatment methods. 

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM of Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Plantar warts are uncomfortable growths on the soles of the feet and can create quite a nuisance. Caused by the human papillomavirus, which is abbreviated HPV, the virus enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. The ideal environment for this to occur is warm and damp, such as swimming pools or communal showers. The pressure from walking or standing can push these warts inward, making them appear flat. While plantar warts can sometimes resolve on their own, treatment is often sought to alleviate pain and prevent their spread. Over-the-counter topical treatments containing salicylic acid may help to gradually dissolve the wart. Medical interventions such as freezing the wart, which is referred to as cryotherapy, or minor surgical removal may be recommended by a podiatrist. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is strongly suggested that you consult with this type of doctor who can guide you toward the treatment method that is right for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor 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 West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Falls at home are a common risk, particularly for older people. Making simple changes can prevent them and ensure safety. For floors, stairways, and hallways, it is important to use handrails, good lighting, and non-slip strips. Additionally, it is beneficial to avoid using throw rugs and refrain from walking on wet floors. In bathrooms, install grab bars and use non-skid bath mats. It is helpful to keep night lights on, in addition to having a flashlight near the bed. Organize the kitchen for easy access and clean up spills immediately. Fix broken steps, and keep pathways clear on the outside of the home. In other living areas, keep cords away, arrange furniture wisely, and have essential items within reach. Avoid using chairs or tables to reach high objects. Have emergency numbers accessible and consider immediate response systems for extra protection. If you would like to learn more about falls prevention, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this topic further.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Podiatrists are healthcare professionals specializing in the medical care and treatment of the foot and ankles. They undergo extensive education and training, obtaining doctorate degrees from accredited institutions of podiatric medicine. Podiatrists can diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including fractures, arthritis, diabetic foot disorders, skin, and nail conditions, and causes of heel pain, like plantar fasciitis. Podiatrists can specialize in general foot conditions, or focus on specific areas like sports medicine, wound care, orthotics, diabetes, pediatrics, geriatrics, neurologic and circulatory foot conditions, and reconstructive surgery. To become a podiatrist, one must complete a bachelor's degree, followed by a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree, three years of residency training, national board certification, and state licensing. Specializations can be pursued through fellowship programs and certification exams. Podiatrists are considered physicians, possessing a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and systemic diseases, with their expertise solely focused on foot and ankle disorders. They differ from orthopedists, who treat musculoskeletal issues affecting the entire body. If you have any interest in becoming a podiatrist, it is suggested that you make an appointment to speak to one about their experiences.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The ankle joint is a structure of bones, ligaments, muscles, and tendons that allow the foot to flex and point. At this complex joint, the tibia and fibula muscles of the calf connect with the talus bone of the foot, forming what is termed the ankle mortise. These bones bear the majority of weight bearing, while the ligaments that hold them in place provide stability. When this mechanism fails, usually as the result of some kind of trauma, the ankle becomes dislocated. The most common causes of a dislocated ankle are falls, car accidents, and sports injuries. Types of dislocations include posterior, anterior, lateral, and superior. A posterior dislocation, which is the most common, occurs when the talus is pushed forward while the tibia is pushed backward. A lateral dislocation, which occurs when the ankle is twisted, is usually accompanied by a bone fracture. A superior dislocation occurs when the talus is pushed upward into the space between the tibia and fibula, often the result of a fall or car crash. Treatment for a dislocated ankle depends on the type and severity of the injury, and recovery can take up to 3 months. For help with an ankle dislocation, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Michael Schwartzman, DPM from Illinois and Indiana . Our doctor 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
• 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 West Chicago, IL and Whiting, IN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.