A bunion is a foot deformity that affects the joint at the base of the big toe, causing it to shift out of proper alignment and form a visible bump along the side of the foot. This condition usually develops as the big toe leans toward the neighboring toes. It may cause discomfort, swelling, and limited movement, especially during walking or when wearing tight shoes. Contributing factors include genetics, poorly fitting footwear, and past injuries that weaken the joint. People with flat feet, arthritis, or jobs that involve long periods of standing may have a higher risk. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition, relieve pain, and recommend treatment to improve function and alignment. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist treatment options.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors 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?

Podiatrists 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 provider.

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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendon pain often develops when the thick tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated or inflamed from overuse, strain, or injury. This condition may cause aching, stiffness, or burning pain along the back of the heel or lower leg. This often happens after exercise or first getting out of bed in the morning. The area may appear swollen or thickened and can feel tender when touched. Running, climbing stairs, or prolonged walking may increase discomfort and make movement more difficult. Common causes include sudden increases in activity, tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and repeated stress on the tendon. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the condition and determine whether there is inflammation, small tears, or tendon degeneration. Treatment may include wearing supportive footwear, targeted exercises, and activity modification. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Wearing the wrong shoes can place stress on the feet and lead to long-term discomfort. High heels can cause muscle contraction in the calves and feet, which may make it difficult to walk barefoot over time. Very flat shoes can concentrate pressure on the heels and force muscles and tendons to work harder for support, which may contribute to plantar fasciitis. Shoes that are the wrong size can constrict the front of the foot and toes, increasing the risk of corns and bunions. Risk factors include poor fit, lack of support, and prolonged wear of improper footwear. A podiatrist can evaluate foot health, recommend proper shoes, and provide treatment. If you have foot pain from wearing certain types of shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips and guide you footwear selection.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Numbness in the feet can develop from several causes related to nerve function, circulation, or underlying conditions. One common cause is peripheral neuropathy, which affects the nerves responsible for sensation, and can interfere with how the feet detect touch, temperature, and pain. The nerves play an important role in balance and protection, so when they are impaired, individuals may notice tingling, burning, or a reduced ability to feel the ground when walking. Causes include diabetes, prolonged pressure on nerves, injury, or poor circulation. Symptoms can develop gradually and may worsen over time, increasing the risk of unnoticed cuts or sores. A podiatrist can evaluate sensation and circulation through an examination ,and may recommend further testing, if needed. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying cause and protecting the feet. It also aims to improve function through supportive care and targeted exercises. If you have numbness in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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