Pain on the outside of the ankle is often linked to peroneal tendonitis, a condition caused by inflammation of the peroneal tendons that run along the outer side of the ankle and foot. These tendons play a vital role in stabilizing the ankle and assisting with foot movement. Overuse from repetitive activities like running, jumping, or prolonged standing can irritate the tendons, especially in people with high arches, tight calf muscles, or a history of ankle sprains. Symptoms of peroneal tendonitis include swelling, weakness, pain that worsens with activity, and difficulty moving the foot outward. If left untreated, it can lead to ongoing discomfort and reduced mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms, pinpoint the underlying cause, and provide effective treatment options, including activity modifications and bracing to promote healing, preventing further strain. If you have pain on the outside of your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that impacts most people at some time during their lives. Athlete's foot is caused by dermatophytes, fungi that invade the skin and thrive in damp or sweaty environments. It typically appears between the toes where the fungus irritates the skin, causing it to crack, and peel. Symptoms include redness, itching, stinging, and a burning sensation, sometimes accompanied by an unpleasant odor. It is important to keep the feet clean and dry to prevent athlete’s foot. However, if you develop this infection, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

During the third trimester of pregnancy, many women experience structural changes in the feet and arches due to the physical demands of pregnancy. As the body prepares for childbirth, hormonal changes, particularly the increase in the hormone relaxin, cause the ligaments in the feet to loosen and become more flexible. This increased flexibility can lead to a flattening of the arches, a condition known as flat feet. Additionally, the added weight from the growing baby places extra pressure on the feet, leading to discomfort, swelling, and sometimes pain. The feet may widen, and the arch may collapse, making it difficult to wear certain shoes or stand for long periods. To manage these changes, it is important to wear supportive shoes, elevate the feet when possible, and perform gentle foot exercises to improve strength and circulation. If you have foot pain or notice concerning changes in your feet during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Determining whether to pursue limb salvage or amputation for problematic diabetic feet is a critical decision that involves careful evaluation of several factors. Podiatrists assess the severity of the foot condition, considering factors such as the extent of infection, blood flow, and the overall health of the patient. Imaging tests may be conducted to understand the degree of damage and the presence of viable tissue. In cases where blood circulation is sufficient and the infection is manageable, limb salvage techniques, including surgery and advanced wound care, may be preferred to preserve the foot. If you have diabetes and your feet are severely affected, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss effective limb salvage methods.

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common foot condition characterized by dry, thickened skin that develops cracks at the heel's edge. These fissures can be painful and may lead to further complications if left untreated. The primary causes include skin disorders like eczema and psoriasis, which can cause dryness and irritation. Lifestyle factors also play a significant role, as prolonged standing, walking barefoot, and wearing open-back shoes can contribute to the development of cracked heels. Additionally, environmental conditions like low humidity and excessive exposure to water can strip the skin of its natural moisture. Proper foot care, including regular moisturizing and wearing supportive shoes, is essential for preventing cracked heels, ensuring healthy and comfortable feet. Cracked heels can cause severe pain, and it may be difficult to complete daily activities. If you have developed this condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you prescribed medication for effective treatment.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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