As people get older, the smaller muscles in the foot can weaken as part of age-related muscle loss. These muscles help the toes bend and grip the ground during walking. When they lose strength, the toes may not press down as well, which can affect balance and control with each step. This may make walking feel less steady and can increase the risk of trips or falls. The change is often gradual and may go unnoticed until movement becomes more difficult. Wearing supportive shoes, simple strengthening exercises, and balance training can help improve stability and confidence. Paying attention to early signs, such as toe weakness or changes in walking pattern, can make a difference, over time. If you feel less steady on your feet or notice reduced toe strength, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and guidance.

If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists of Gelbmann Podiatry. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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.

Swelling of the feet, also known as edema, occurs when fluid builds up in the tissues, causing the feet to appear puffy or enlarged. The skin may look stretched or shiny, and pressing on the area can sometimes leave an indentation. Patients often describe a heavy or tight feeling, and shoes may suddenly feel too snug. Swelling often develops after long periods of standing or sitting. However, it may also be linked to circulation issues, injury, pregnancy, or underlying medical conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate the pattern and severity of swelling through a physical exam and may coordinate care if a broader medical cause is suspected. Treatment focuses on improving circulation and reducing fluid buildup with supportive footwear, compression, and targeted exercises. Early attention can help prevent discomfort and complications. If you notice swelling of the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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 sprains or strains are common injuries involving damage to the ligaments, tendons, or muscles that support the ankle joint. A sprain affects ligaments, while a strain involves muscles or tendons. These injuries often occur due to poor athletic conditions, muscle and ligament fatigue, or not warming up before activity. Being overweight can also increase stress on the ankle, raising the risk of injury. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Ankle sprains can limit movement, if not treated properly. A podiatrist can provide accurate diagnosis, recommend rehabilitation, and offer support such as bracing or orthotics. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if it is a sprain or a strain, and offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

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

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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.

Heel pain is a common foot problem that can make walking uncomfortable and limit daily activities. Two frequent causes are plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated where it attaches to the heel. Patients often notice sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Achilles tendonitis affects the large tendon at the back of the heel and ankle. This condition may cause stiffness, swelling, and a dull or burning pain that worsens with activity. Both problems may develop from overuse, tight calf muscles, improper footwear, or changes in activity level. The heel may feel tender to the touch, and walking or climbing stairs can become difficult. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause of heel pain through examination and imaging. Treatment may include supportive footwear, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory care, and targeted exercises to improve flexibility and strength. If you have ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, 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.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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.