Items filtered by date: January 2024

Managing foot pain involves a comprehensive approach aimed at ensuring effective relief and long-term foot health. Initially, a precise diagnosis from a podiatrist is essential, which is achieved through a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, and diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. Once the underlying cause is identified, various forms of treatment can be considered. Custom-made orthotic inserts tailored to provide personalized support, correct gait abnormalities, and alleviate pressure on problem areas of the feet can be prescribed. Suggestions for appropriate shoes for needed arch support, cushioning, and fit might be given. Foot splints or braces can be beneficial for specific conditions, and surgical procedures are considered when conservative measures fail to address structural issues or severe pain. Lifestyle modifications, including weight management and activity adjustments, are emphasized to reduce stress on the feet. If you are suffering from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to manage the pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall quality of life.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor 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 office located in Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot stress fractures are hairline breaks in bones that are caused by repeated stress rather than a specific injury. Though tiny and difficult to detect, stress fractures can be a painful and debilitating condition. They typically occur in the lower leg, particularly in the metatarsal bones of the midfoot. They result from repetitive weight-bearing activities that exceed the capacity of muscles and tendons to absorb stress. Symptoms include pain during these types of activities, gradually becoming worse. Metatarsal stress fractures, also known as march fractures, are common among runners who rapidly change workout intensity. They also affect poorly conditioned individuals carrying heavy loads, such as newly recruited soldiers. Diagnosing foot stress fractures involves X-rays or a bone scan, as standard X-rays may not reveal the fracture until several weeks after the injury. It may be necessary to stop weight-bearing activities for up to three months. This period allows the bone to heal and regain its strength. Risk factors include high foot arches, inadequate shock-absorbing shoes, and thinning bones. For help with metatarsal foot pain that can be caused by stress fractures, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Tailor's bunions, also known as bunionettes, present a unique challenge with a bony lump on the outside of the foot around the small toe joint. While tight and ill-fitting shoes can exacerbate the issue, the exact cause of bunionettes is not fully understood. Inherited factors and the natural shape of foot bones play a significant role in bunionette formation. Causes include previous toe joint injuries, joint hypermobility, age, inflammatory arthritic conditions, tight leg muscles, and neuromuscular conditions. Footwear can also play a significant role. Tailor's bunions can cause discomfort and pain by putting pressure on the joint, bursa, and surrounding nerves. Treatment can include rest and elevation, applying a cold compress, and choosing footwear with cushioned heels, and good arch support. Further, using insoles, engaging in regular stretching and foot exercises, and exploring activities that put minimal pressure on the feet, such as swimming, may help. Weight management may also be beneficial.  Footwear to avoid include wearing high heels and tight shoes, in addition to prolonged standing and walking barefoot on hard surfaces. If you have a bunionette that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied of Palos Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase the risk of its development. Sweating profusely or wearing shoes and socks that promote excessive foot moisture create favorable conditions for the growth of the fungi responsible for athlete's foot. Those with weakened immune systems are particularly susceptible to infections, including fungal ones like athlete's foot. The transmission of athlete's foot from person to person is another factor to consider. The fungus responsible for the infection can be spread through direct contact with an infected person or by coming into contact with surfaces or items that carry the fungal spores. This makes environments such as communal showers, swimming pool areas, and gym locker rooms potential breeding grounds for the fungus. Common signs of athlete’s foot include an itchy, white, or scaly rash between the toes or on the feet, and flaky, infected skin that may peel off. For help in dealing with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for advanced treatment options. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, a common and often painful foot ailment, may be more than a superficial concern. It could be a subtle indicator of underlying nutritional deficiencies. Essential vitamins like A, C, and E, along with minerals such as zinc, contribute significantly to skin health. Insufficient intake of these vital nutrients can compromise the skin's elasticity and integrity, leading to dryness and fissures, particularly on the heels. Vitamin A plays a vital role in skin regeneration, while vitamin C supports collagen synthesis, essential for maintaining skin suppleness. Vitamin E functions as an antioxidant, protecting skin cells from damage. Zinc aids in wound healing, essential for repairing cracks in the skin. Understanding the correlation between vitamin deficiencies and cracked heels highlights the importance of a well-balanced diet and, when necessary, nutritional supplements. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who address the problem and offer treatment options.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.