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Bunions

Bunions. Symptoms and Causes

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Bunions. Symptoms and Causes

A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It is a common foot problem that affects people of all ages, but it is most commonly seen in women and older adults. Bunions can be painful and limit mobility, making it difficult to wear certain types of shoes or participate in certain activities.

Symptoms of a bunion include:

  1. A bulging bump on the base of the big toe.
  2. Pain and tenderness in the affected area.
  3. Swelling or redness around the big toe joint.
  4. Stiffness in the big toe joint.
  5. Corns or calluses on the bump or on the second toe due to friction from shoes.
  6. Limited movement of the big toe.

The exact cause of bunions is not known, but several factors may contribute to their development. These include:

  1. Genetics: A tendency to develop bunions can be inherited.
  2. Foot structure: Abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or low arches, can lead to bunions.
  3. Foot injuries: Injuries to the foot can cause the bones to shift and contribute to bunion development.
  4. Footwear: Tight, narrow, or high-heeled shoes can put pressure on the toes and contribute to bunion formation.
  5. Arthritis: Certain types of arthritis can cause inflammation in the joints and contribute to the development of bunions.

If you suspect you have a bunion, it is important to see a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options may include changes in footwear, padding and taping, medication, physical therapy, or surgery.

Podiatrists at European Foot & Ankle clinic provide minimally invasive bunion surgery.

Call to schedule an appointment for any our Chicago podiatry offices: 773-205-0106

Lear more: https://europeanfootandankleclinic.com/service/minimally-invasive-bunion-surgery-treatment

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When To See A Podiatrist For Your Foot Problems

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When To See A Podiatrist For Your Foot Problems

If you’re experiencing foot problems, it’s important to seek help from a podiatrist, also known as a foot and ankle specialist. A podiatrist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions affecting the feet and ankles.

Here are some signs that you should see a podiatrist:

  1. Persistent pain: If you’re experiencing persistent pain in your feet or ankles, it’s important to get it checked out. Pain that doesn’t go away could be a sign of a serious problem that requires medical attention.
  2. Swelling or redness: Swelling or redness in the feet or ankles could be a sign of an injury or infection.
  3. Numbness or tingling: If you’re experiencing numbness or tingling in your feet or toes, it could be a sign of nerve damage.
  4. Skin and nail problems: Podiatrists can also treat skin and nail problems such as corns, calluses, fungal infections, and ingrown toenails.
  5. Chronic conditions: If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes, arthritis, or neuropathy, you should see a podiatrist regularly to monitor your foot health.

It’s important to take care of your feet, as they are an essential part of your mobility and overall health. If you’re experiencing any foot problems, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Call us today to make an appointment:  773-205-0106

foot pain

Common Causes Of Heel Pain

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Common Causes Of Heel Pain

Heel pain is a common foot problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of heel pain include:

  1. Plantar Fasciitis: This is the most common cause of heel pain, occurring when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or irritated.
  2. Achilles Tendinitis: This condition occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone, becomes inflamed or irritated.
  3. Heel Spurs: These are bony growths that develop on the bottom of the heel bone, often as a result of long-term plantar fasciitis.
  4. Stress Fractures: These are small cracks in the bones of the foot, which can occur as a result of overuse or repetitive impact.
  5. Bursitis: This is the inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions and protects the joints in the body. When it occurs in the heel, it can cause pain and swelling.
  6. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a condition that occurs when the tibial nerve, which runs through a tunnel in the ankle, becomes compressed or pinched.
  7. Sever’s Disease: This is a condition that occurs in children and adolescents when the growth plate in the heel bone becomes inflamed or irritated.

Other causes of heel pain can include nerve damage, arthritis, and obesity. It is important to see a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of heel pain and to receive appropriate treatment.

If you have a heel pain, call us today:  773-205-0106

broken ankle treatment

Foot Fractures

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Foot Fractures

A foot fracture is a break in one of the bones of the foot. Fractures can occur in any of the 26 bones that make up the foot, but the most common fractures occur in the toes, metatarsals (the long bones in the middle of the foot), and the heel bone (calcaneus).

The symptoms of a foot fracture may include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or putting weight on the affected foot. In some cases, there may be a visible deformity or a bone protruding through the skin.

Treatment for a foot fracture will depend on the severity and location of the injury. Simple fractures may be treated with immobilization using a cast or a brace, while more complex fractures may require surgery to realign and stabilize the bones.

After a foot fracture, it is important to rest and protect the affected foot to allow for proper healing. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help restore strength and mobility to the foot.

If you suspect you have a foot fracture, it is important to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further damage and ensure proper healing.

If you have a foot fracture, call us today:  773-205-0106

foot arthritis

Foot and Ankle Arthritis

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Foot and Ankle Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and stiffness in joints. Foot and ankle arthritis specifically affect the joints in the foot and ankle, causing pain and difficulty in movement.

There are several types of arthritis that can affect the foot and ankle, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and post-traumatic arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it is caused by wear and tear on the joints over time. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints, and post-traumatic arthritis can develop after an injury or trauma to the foot or ankle.

Symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or performing daily activities. Treatment options may include non-surgical interventions, such as physical therapy, medication, and the use of orthotics or braces, or surgical interventions, such as joint replacement surgery.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for foot and ankle arthritis.

How does arthritis affect the foot and ankle?

Each foot has 28 bones and more than 30 joints. The most common foot joints that arthritis affects are:

  • The joint where the ankle and shinbone meet.
  • The 3 joints of the foot that involve the heel bone, the inner mid-foot bone, and the outer mid-foot bone.
  • The joint of the big toe and foot bone.

If you have a foot pain, call us today:  773-205-0106

WOUNDS HEALING THERAPY

MIST Wounds Healing

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MIST Wounds Healing in Podiatry

MIST procedure is frequently used in podiatry to treat chronic wounds in the lower extremities, such as diabetic foot ulcers. Chronic wounds in the foot can be challenging to treat due to poor blood circulation and a high risk of infection. MIST procedure can help remove dead tissue and debris from the wound, which can promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.

The MIST Therapy System delivers therapeutic ultrasound to the wound bed without direct contact. Saline solution is converted into fine particles and released towards the wound by sound pressure waves to remove dead or damaged tissue.

UltraMIST Therapy has been clinically demonstrated to promote healing across a wide range of chronic and acute wounds. Unlike most wound therapies that are limited to treating the wound surface, the UltraMIST System delivers low-frequency ultrasound to the treatment site using a noncontact saline.

Indications include, but are not limited to, diabetic foot ulcers, venous leg ulcers, pressure ulcers, and surgical, burn, and deep tissue injuries. It also reduces and removes a wide range of bacteria, including biofilms, while preserving healthy structures.

These low energy ultrasonic waves promote healing from within by increasing the number of blood vessels to the wound, reducing bacteria and decreasing inflammation.

Schedule your appointment by calling:  773-205-0106

Read more: https://europeanfootandankleclinic.com/service/mist-ultrasound-wounds-healing-therapy/

heel pain

Heel Pain Treatments

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Heel Pain.  Treatments for Heel Pain

There are several treatments available for heel pain, depending on the underlying cause of the pain. Here are some common treatments:

  1. Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can help the heel heal.
  2. Ice: Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day can help reduce inflammation and pain.
  3. Stretching: Stretching exercises can help to relieve tension in the foot and ankle muscles.
  4. Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts can help to distribute the weight more evenly on the foot, reducing pressure on the heel.
  5. Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve flexibility and strength in the foot and ankle, which can reduce pain and improve function.
  6. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
  7. Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and pain.
  8. Surgery: Surgery may be necessary in rare cases, such as for severe cases of plantar fasciitis or heel spurs that do not respond to other treatments.

It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment for your specific condition.

If you have a heel pain, call us today:  773-205-0106

Heel Pain

Heel Pain Reasons

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Heel Pain

Heel pain can be caused by a number of different conditions. Some of the most common causes of heel pain include:

  1. Plantar fasciitis: This is the most common cause of heel pain. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is usually felt as a sharp pain in the heel when first getting up in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time.
  2. Achilles tendonitis: The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis is caused by overuse or strain of the tendon and is typically felt as a dull ache in the back of the heel.
  3. Heel spurs: Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the heel bone. They are often caused by long-term plantar fasciitis or other conditions that put stress on the heel bone.
  4. Bursitis: Bursitis is inflammation of the bursa, a fluid-filled sac that cushions the joint. In the heel, bursitis can occur at the back of the heel or beneath the heel bone.
  5. Stress fractures: Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that are caused by repetitive stress or overuse. They are more common in athletes or people who do high-impact activities.
  6. Sever’s disease: This is a condition that affects growing children and adolescents. It is caused by inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone.

If you are experiencing heel pain, it is important to see a doctor or a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

If you have a heel pain, call us today:  773-205-0106

toenail fungus

Toenail Fungus Laser Treatment

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Toenail Fungus. Laser Treatment

Toenail fungus laser treatment is a medical procedure that uses a laser to target and eliminate fungal infections in the toenails. The laser heats up the infected area, which destroys the fungus and promotes healthy nail growth.

The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour and is performed by a podiatrist or dermatologist. It is typically painless, but some patients may experience a warming or tingling sensation during the treatment.

Toenail fungus laser treatment is considered a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatments such as topical antifungal medications or oral medications that can have side effects. However, it can be more expensive and may not be covered by insurance.

It’s important to note that toenail fungus laser treatment may not work for everyone, and it may take several treatments to fully eliminate the infection. In addition, good nail hygiene practices such as keeping feet clean and dry, avoiding tight-fitting shoes, and regularly trimming nails can help prevent future infections.

Schedule your appointment by calling:  773-205-0106

podiatrist near me

What Does a Podiatrist Do?

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Podiatrist in Chicago near me

European Foot and Ankle Clinic with 4 locations in Chicago and IN provide best podiatry services for Chicago and near Chicago patients.

Podiatrists are medical professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. They provide a range of treatments for various foot and ankle problems, including:

  1. Orthotics: Custom-made shoe inserts or orthotics can be used to correct foot and ankle problems, such as flat feet, high arches, and overpronation.
  2. Foot and ankle surgery: Podiatrists can perform surgical procedures to correct problems such as bunions, hammertoes, and other foot deformities.
  3. Wound care: Podiatrists can provide treatment and care for foot and ankle wounds, such as cuts, blisters, and ulcers.
  4. Physical therapy: Podiatrists can prescribe physical therapy exercises to improve foot and ankle strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
  5. Medications: Podiatrists can prescribe medications to alleviate pain, inflammation, and other foot and ankle conditions.
  6. Diabetic foot care: Podiatrists are trained to provide specialized care for people with diabetes to prevent and treat foot and ankle complications, such as neuropathy and ulcers.
  7. Sports medicine: Podiatrists can provide specialized care for athletes and people who engage in physical activity to prevent and treat foot and ankle injuries.

These are just a few examples of the treatments that podiatrists provide. Depending on the condition, a podiatrist may use one or a combination of these treatments to help alleviate a patient’s foot or ankle problems.

Schedule your appointment by calling:  773-205-0106