Items filtered by date: May 2022

A spasm is simply a contraction of the muscles and can be common in the feet. Spasms do not usually last long, but they can be extremely painful, not to mention annoying. Among the many possible causes of spasms are abnormal electrolyte balance, nerve damage, and dehydration. Spasms also may be the result of  serious disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, dystonia, or Huntington disease. If you experience foot spasms more and more frequently or they begin to interfere with your daily life, it is a good idea to visit a podiatrist who is trained to diagnose the causes. You will likely be asked about your health history, and possibly be required to have a blood test to determine calcium, potassium, and magnesium levels. Vitamin D and hormone levels, kidney function, and nerve function may also be tested. Once the results are in, your podiatrist can discuss treatment options with you. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . 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 Northwest Chicago, Southwest Chicago, and Wicker Park, Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a common and contagious fungal infection of the skin. Common symptoms are dry, red, and cracked skin that generally develops on the bottom of the foot and in between the toes. It can spread to the toes and other areas of the foot if it is not promptly treated. This fungus can be uncomfortable and cause irritability and embarrassment. There are effective methods that can help to prevent athlete’s foot. These include wearing appropriate shoes while in public shower rooms or locker rooms and keeping your feet washed and thoroughly dried regularly. Additionally, it is advised to refrain from sharing shoes and socks. It is beneficial to wear shoes that are made of natural materials as this may help the feet to feel more comfortable. There are several treatment methods that respond well to athlete’s foot and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine which treatment options are best for you.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates .  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

As summer nears, many of us want to go barefoot or wear flip-flops rather than closed-toed shoes and socks. Flip-flops are easy to grab and wear, can feel cool, and help with healing foot problems requiring less restriction of the feet. Their breathability can also help prevent foot infections. However, there are downsides to wearing flip-flops which generally involve their lack of padding and support. Flip-flops can be worn occasionally with no problem, but they do not absorb shock, can be dangerous in certain terrains, cause blisters from the Y strap rubbing against the skin, and negatively affect the biomechanics of the body because the stride is toe to heel versus the opposite usual stride. Wearing flip-flops can lead to pain in the back, hips, legs, and lower joints and cause other foot conditions like flat feet and plantar fasciitis. The obvious solution is to use care in wearing flip-flops and pay attention to what your feet may be telling you.  If you have over-worn your flip-flops and are having problems with your feet as a result, consult with a podiatrist to check for problems and obtain a treatment regimen.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

Usually, a broken toe is not a serious foot condition, despite the fact it can cause severe pain and discomfort. Common ways to break a toe include jamming it against a piece of furniture or dropping a heavy object on it. Many patients notice immediate pain, bruising and swelling, and the affected toe is often difficult to move. In severe fractures, the toe may protrude at an uncomfortable angle, and may require an aggressive form of treatment. The bone may need to be moved back into place, and this is referred to as reduction. Relief may be found when the broken toe is taped to the toe next to it, which can provide the stability that is necessary as the healing process occurs. This method, referred to as buddy taping, is fairly easy to accomplish. Surgery may be a viable treatment option if the break is severe, in addition to possible wearing a cast that can provide added support. If you have broken a toe, you may with to visit a podiatrist for a complete examination and treatment options.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Dr. Jeffrey J. Betman & Associates . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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