Items filtered by date: February 2020

The medical condition that is referred to as Morton’s Neuroma typically affects the toes. There may be swelling and discomfort between two toes as a result of a compressed nerve. The causes of this condition may include wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, or from foot deformities such as bunions. Many patients find moderate relief when custom-made orthotics are worn, or from wearing shoes that have ample cushioning. For severe cases, surgery to remove the affected nerve may be an option for permanent relief. If you have developed Morton's neuroma, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Mark Gagnon of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

The ankle has the ability to move the foot in two directions that consist of moving away from the body, and toward the body. The bony portions on the side of the ankle are referred to as the malleoli, and these provide stability while walking and standing. If an injury occurs to the ankle, it may be difficult to walk, in addition to generally causing severe pain and discomfort. Ankle sprains are known to be the most common type of ankle injury. This can happen when suddenly stepping off of a curb, or if it is twisted in a sporting activity. Common symptoms that are associated with this type of injury can include immediate swelling surrounding the affected area, bruising, and it may feel warm. After a proper diagnosis is performed which typically consists of having an X-ray taken, treatment can begin. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly advised that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer correct treatment options for you.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Mark Gagnon from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor 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 tendinitis
• 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 one of our offices located in Crestwood, Orland Park, and Summit, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The medical name for an ingrown toenail is known as onychocryptosis. This can happen as a result of the side of the toenail growing into the skin, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Additional symptoms may include discharge draining from the affected area, and the side of the toe may appear swollen. A common reason an ingrown toenail may develop can be from shoes worn that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Trimming your toenails incorrectly may also cause an ingrown toenail. It is beneficial for the nails be trimmed straight across, and not too short. If you notice you have an ingrown toenail, it is advised that you are treated by a podiatrist who can help you to prevent an infection from occurring.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Mark Gagnon of Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

It’s quite common that as we age, we start to become a little less stable on our feet. Because of this, it may be beneficial to take certain actions in helping to prevent falling, as well as injuring the feet. The first step in this process would be making sure your home is safe and accessible. Part of this involves keeping your home clean and avoiding an excess of clutter, as this may help to lessen your chances of accidentally tripping on something. Similarly, you want to make sure you can see any obstacle that may be in your way. With that in mind, keeping your house well lit, especially around stairs, can be extremely useful. Speaking of stairs, if you don’t already, you should have hand railings installed for extra support. Another great tip for preventing falls is investing in furniture that will stay put. This can be done through the use of non-skid mats for bathroom or showers, as well as rugs paired with double-sided tape. For more helpful tips about falls prevention, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional advice.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Dr. Mark Gagnon from Advanced Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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