A podiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the care of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. This includes diagnosing and treating injuries, chronic conditions, and structural problems that affect how people walk and move. Podiatrists care for issues such as heel pain, bunions, ingrown toenails, fungal infections, arthritis, and sports-related injuries. They also play an important role in managing diabetic foot problems, nerve conditions, and wounds that require close monitoring. Beyond treating pain, podiatrists focus on prevention and long-term foot health. They may recommend footwear changes, custom orthotics, stretching programs, or lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress on the feet and joints. Many podiatrists also perform in-office procedures and surgery, when needed, to restore function and comfort. If you have ongoing foot or ankle concerns, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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.

A serious stubbed toe can cause more than brief pain especially when the impact is forceful or awkward. Common causes include running into furniture, sports injuries, or falls. Symptoms may involve sharp pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the toe. The toe may look red, crooked, or enlarged and it can feel tender or unstable when walking. A podiatrist can help by starting with a careful examination and imaging such as X-rays to determine whether the injury is a sprain or a fracture. Early treatment may include protection taping or immobilization, followed by gradual return to activity. More severe injuries may require specialized care to ensure proper healing and alignment. Ignoring symptoms can delay recovery and increase long-term joint stiffness. If you have a serious stubbed toe that could be broken or sprained, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. 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 Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Ankle injuries are common, and it can be difficult to tell the difference between a sprain and a fracture without proper evaluation. Both often occur after a fall, misstep, or sudden twist and can cause immediate pain, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight. A sprained ankle involves stretched or torn ligaments, while a broken ankle affects one or more bones. Symptoms may include bruising, stiffness, and instability along with swelling, tenderness, limited motion. The ankle may look puffy or misshapen and it can feel sharp, throbbing, or weak, especially during movement. Causes range from sports injuries to uneven surfaces or simple accidents. A podiatrist can help by performing a detailed examination and ordering imaging to accurately diagnose the injury and rule out fractures. Treatment may begin with immobilization, rest, and supportive devices, and can progress to targeted exercises, bracing, or surgical care depending on severity. If you have an ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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.

A broken foot refers to a fracture in one or more bones of the foot that disrupts normal movement and weight-bearing. Healing time can vary depending on the location and severity of the fracture, overall health, and how well the foot is protected during recovery. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty standing or walking. Causes often involve falls, sports injuries, repetitive stress, or direct impact. Risk factors include osteoporosis, overuse, wearing improper footwear, and high-impact activities. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the injury using a physical examination and imaging, create a personalized treatment plan, and monitor healing progress. If you have symptoms of a broken foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.