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podiatrist Chicago

When To See a Podiatrist

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When To See a Podiatrist

Podiatrists in Chicago can help treat sprains, strains, and broken bones in the foot or the ankle, as they can diagnose your injury and suggest treatment. If the joints in your feet are often swollen, red, stiff or tender, see a podiatrist.

You should consider seeing a podiatrist, if

  1. Foot Pain: If you are experiencing persistent pain in your feet or ankles, especially if it’s affecting your daily activities or quality of life, a podiatrist can help diagnose the underlying issue and recommend appropriate treatment.
  2. Ingrown Toenails: If you have an ingrown toenail that’s causing pain, redness, swelling, or infection, a podiatrist can provide relief and prevent further complications.
  3. Foot Deformities: If you notice any abnormal growths, deformities, or changes in the shape of your feet or toes, a podiatrist can assess the situation and recommend interventions if necessary.
  4. Diabetes: People with diabetes are at a higher risk of foot complications due to nerve damage and poor circulation. Regular visits to a podiatrist can help prevent and manage potential issues like diabetic foot ulcers.
  5. Athletic Injuries: If you’re an athlete and sustain foot or ankle injuries, a podiatrist can provide specialized care to ensure proper healing and help you get back to your activities as soon as possible.
  6. Heel Pain: Conditions like plantar fasciitis, which cause heel pain, can be effectively managed by a podiatrist. They can provide treatments to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.
  7. Arthritis: If you have arthritis that’s affecting your feet or ankles, a podiatrist can help manage the condition and provide recommendations for maintaining mobility and reducing pain.
  8. Flat Feet or High Arches: If you have flat feet or high arches that are causing discomfort or issues with walking, a podiatrist can offer guidance on appropriate footwear and potential orthotic interventions.
  9. Nail and Skin Conditions: Podiatrists can treat various nail and skin conditions affecting the feet, such as fungal infections, warts, and calluses.
  10. Routine Foot Care: Even if you don’t have any specific issues, it’s a good idea to see a podiatrist for routine check-ups, especially if you’re at risk for foot problems due to factors like age, genetics, or lifestyle.
  11. Preventive Care: If you’re planning to start a new exercise routine, change your footwear, or have concerns about foot health, a podiatrist can provide guidance to prevent potential problems.

Call: 773-205-0106 to schedule an appointment with podiatrist in Chicago.

ankle pain

What Causes the Ankle to Lock?

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What Causes the Ankle to Lock?

Foot and ankle issues bring millions of Americans into their local podiatrist’s office each year. Complaining of ankle pain, stiffness, swelling or various deformities, many of these patients are diagnosed and treated for minor foot conditions, such as bunions, corns, flat feet, athlete’s foot, warts, or ingrown nails. The ankle is a complex and hard-working joint that bears multiple times the weight of your body with each step.

The term “ankle lock” can refer to a few different situations involving the ankle joint. It’s important to distinguish between these situations, as they have different causes and implications:

  1. Ankle Joint Locking due to Injuries or Structural Issues: Sometimes, the ankle joint can feel like it’s “locking” due to injuries or structural issues. This could be the result of a torn ligament, a bone fragment, or even a dislocation. These conditions might cause a sensation of the joint getting stuck or locked in a certain position. Conditions like ankle impingement or loose bodies within the joint can also lead to similar sensations.
  2. Ankle Joint Instability: On the flip side, if the ligaments supporting the ankle are injured or weakened, it can lead to a sense of instability. This instability can sometimes manifest as a feeling of the ankle giving way or “locking” as the joint moves in ways it’s not properly stabilized to handle.
  3. Muscle Cramps or Spasms: Muscle cramps or spasms in the calf or ankle muscles can lead to a sensation of “locking.” When a muscle suddenly contracts and doesn’t relax properly, it can cause discomfort and a sensation of immobility.
  4. Achilles Tendon Issues: Problems with the Achilles tendon, such as tendonitis or a partial tear, can cause pain and stiffness in the ankle area, potentially giving rise to a feeling of “locking.”
  5. Synovitis: Synovitis is inflammation of the synovial membrane that lines the joint. This inflammation can lead to swelling and reduced joint movement, which might be interpreted as the joint “locking.”
  6. Neurological Issues: In some cases, neurological conditions can affect the perception of joint movement and position. Conditions like dystonia, where muscles contract involuntarily, could potentially cause a sensation of “locking.”

If you are experiencing a recurring sensation of your ankle locking or have concerns about your ankle’s health, please call and schedule an appointment with our Chicago podiatrists at 773-205-0106. Our podiatrists can provide a proper diagnosis based on your symptoms, medical history, and potentially recommend imaging studies or other diagnostic tests to identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment.

ankle pain

Minor Ankle Injuries

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Minor Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle issues bring millions of Americans into their local podiatrist’s office each year. Complaining of pain, stiffness, swelling or various deformities, many of these patients are diagnosed and treated for minor foot conditions, such as bunions, corns, flat feet, athlete’s foot, warts, or ingrown nails.

Minor ankle injuries are common and can range from simple strains to mild sprains. These injuries typically occur due to twisting, rolling, or overstretching of the ankle joint. Some of the common minor ankle injuries include:

  1. Ankle Sprain: This is the most common minor ankle injury. It occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn. Ankle sprains are graded on a scale from mild to severe based on the extent of ligament damage.
  2. Ankle Strain: Ankle strains involve the stretching or tearing of muscles or tendons around the ankle. These can occur due to overuse, sudden movements, or excessive stress on the muscles and tendons.
  3. Ankle Contusion: Ankle contusions refer to bruises caused by direct impact to the ankle, such as a blow or a collision. They can lead to localized pain, swelling, and discoloration.
  4. Ankle Tendinitis: Tendinitis occurs when the tendons around the ankle become inflamed or irritated due to repetitive stress or overuse. It can cause pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
  5. Achilles Tendon Strain: This occurs when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is stretched or torn. It often results from sudden, forceful movements.
  6. Peroneal Tendonitis: Peroneal tendons run along the outside of the ankle and can become inflamed or irritated due to overuse or repetitive stress, leading to pain and swelling.

Treatment for minor ankle injuries usually involves the R.I.C.E. protocol:

  • Rest: Avoid putting weight on the injured ankle to allow it to heal.
  • Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every 1-2 hours to reduce swelling and pain.
  • Compression: Use an elastic bandage to provide gentle compression to the injured area, which can help reduce swelling.
  • Elevation: Keep the injured ankle elevated above the level of the heart whenever possible to further reduce swelling.

Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can also help manage pain and inflammation.

Contact our podiatrists in Chicago at  773-205-0106 for best  appropriate treatment recommendations, including physical therapy if necessary and for the recommended pain relievers dosage.

 

ankle pain

How To Treat Ankle Pain

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Injury to any of the ankle bones, ligaments or tendons, and several types of arthritis can cause ankle pain. Ankle pain while walking may be due to swelling and an increase in inflammation following a mild injury to the ligaments, joints, or bones of the ankle.

If your ankle pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, contact Chicago podiatrists   at 773-205-0106 for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Some steps you can consider for treating mild ankle pain:

  1. Rest: Give your ankle a break and avoid putting unnecessary stress on it. Resting allows the body to heal naturally.
  2. Ice: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Use an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth for about 15-20 minutes at a time, every 1-2 hours.
  3. Compression: Wrapping the ankle with an elastic bandage (like an ACE bandage) can help control swelling and provide support. Be careful not to wrap it too tightly, as this can impede blood circulation.
  4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. Follow the recommended dosage and guidelines.
  5. Supportive Footwear: Wear shoes that provide proper support and cushioning. Avoid high heels or shoes that exacerbate your pain.
  6. Avoid Putting Weight: If your pain is severe or your ankle is unstable, consider using crutches or a brace to avoid putting weight on the injured ankle until it heals.
  7. Heat: After the initial acute phase (usually after 48 hours), you might consider using heat therapy to help relax muscles and promote blood circulation. Use a warm towel or a heating pad on a low setting for about 15-20 minutes at a time.

Podiatrists at European Foot & Ankle Clinic can provide you wit the appropriate treatment for ankle pain depending on the cause of the pain. Please contact our Chicago podiatrists at 773-205-0106 for medical advice to identify the underlying issue and receive appropriate treatment.