December 2021

Monday, 12 August 2019 00:00

What Causes Gout?

Elevated uric acid levels in the bloodstream may lead to a painful condition that is known as gout. It typically affects the joints in the big toe, and symptoms generally consist of swelling, redness, and severe pain and discomfort. It can occur as a result of crystals that form and lodge in the joints, which is caused by eating foods that have high purine levels. These foods can include red meat, shellfish, and excess amounts of alcohol. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which can consist of extracting fluid from the affected joint that contains the crystals, proper treatment can begin. This can include taking medication which can lower uric acid levels. There are methods that can be implemented which may prevent gout attacks from occurring. It is beneficial to incorporate healthy eating habits into your daily routine, and limiting the amount of alcohol that is consumed. If you have frequent gout attacks, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can treat this condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Anna Petrov from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Monday, 05 August 2019 00:00

Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are growths that typically appear on the heels or other weight-bearing areas of the feet. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus enters the body through breaks in the skin, such as cuts, that are on the bottom of the feet. Plantar warts are more likely to affect children and teenagers, people with weakened immune systems, people who have a history with plantar warts, and people who walk barefoot in environments exposed to a wart-causing virus.

If you suspect you have plantar warts, you may have the following symptoms: pain or tenderness while walking, a lesion that interrupts the ridges in the skin of your foot, small fleshy lesions on the bottom of the foot, or a callus where a wart has grown inward over a well-defined spot on the skin.

HPV causes plantar warts to form and is very common. There are more than 100 kinds of the virus in existence. However, only a few of them cause warts on the feet. The other types of HPV are likely to cause warts on other parts of the body.

If you have plantar warts, your podiatrist may try different treatment methods depending on your specific case. Some treatments for plantar warts are peeling medicines (salicylic acid), freezing medicines (cryotherapy), or surgical procedures. Laser treatments and vaccines are also used to treat plantar warts.

Monday, 05 August 2019 00:00

Overview of Plantar Warts

Plantar warts develop on the bottom of the foot. They are caused by human papilloma virus, better known as HPV. If you believe you have developed a plantar wart, refrain from picking at it as the virus can be spread through touch and scratch. While anyone is prone to developing these types of warts, they most typically affect children, teens, and young adults. When in your body, HPV sets off the multiplication of epidermal cells that leads to the formation of warts on the feet. Plantar warts tend to develop on the heel or weight-bearing parts of soles. They will often grow inward, exposing sensitive tissue and triggering pain and bleeding. If the wart is small and non-intrusive, it can be treated through home remedies such as over-the-counter (OTC) treatments. Most OTC treatments contain salicylic acid and are applied topically to the wart. If the wart is bigger in size, in-office procedures may deliver faster and safer results. The in-office treatments include cryotherapy, immunotherapy and regular surgery. Plantar warts can be prevented best by covering your feet in places where people walk barefoot and changing your shoes and socks regularly to avoid the spread of the virus. Washing and drying the feet thoroughly with the use of talcum powder to help absorb excess moisture and perspiration is also a prevention recommendation. If you are developing plantar warts, it is important to see a podiatrist for the best treatment option.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Anna Petrov from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
Hard or thick callused spots
Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

Freezing
Electric tool removal
Laser Treatment
Topical Creams (prescription only)
Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

Tuesday, 30 July 2019 00:00

Bunions

A bunion is a bump that forms at the base of the big toe. Bunions form when the big toe pushes against the next toe, which forces the big toe joint to get bigger and stick out. As a result, the skin over the bunion may start to appear red and it may feel sore.

There are risk factors that can increase your chances of developing bunions. People who wear high heels or ill-fitting shoes are more likely to develop them, in addition to those who have a genetic history of bunions or have rheumatoid arthritis.

The most obvious way to tell if you have a bunion is to look for the big toe pushing up against the toe next to it. Bunions produce a large protrusion at the base of the big toe and may or may not cause pain. Other symptoms are redness, swelling, and restricted movement of the big toe if you have arthritis.

Nonsurgical methods are frequently used to treat bunions that aren’t severe. Some methods of nonsurgical treatment are orthotics, icing and resting the foot, taping the foot, and pain medication. Surgery is usually only required in extreme cases. However, if surgery is needed, some procedures may involve removing the swollen tissue from around the big toe joint, straightening the big toe by removing part of the bone, or joining the bones of your affected joint permanently.

Your podiatrist will diagnose your bunion by doing a thorough examination of your foot. He or she may also conduct an x-ray to determine the cause of the bunion and its severity.

Tuesday, 30 July 2019 00:00

How Do Bunions Develop?

A large bony bump on the side of the big toe is referred to as a bunion. It can occur as a result of genetic factors, and from shoes that are worn which do not fit correctly. There may be inadequate room for the toes to move freely in, and this may cause the big toe to gravitate to the toe next to it. There are common symptoms that are often associated with bunions, including red and hardened skin over the affected toe, and it may be difficult to move and to wear shoes. Mild relief can be found when larger shoes are worn, and it may be helpful to wear a protective pad on top of the toe. For severe bunions, surgery could be a successful treatment option for permanent removal. If you are afflicted with a bunion, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can properly manage this condition.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Anna Petrov of Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

Redness and inflammation
Pain and tenderness
Callus or corns on the bump
Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Tuesday, 23 July 2019 00:00

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Trauma to the foot, especially the toes, can occur in many ways. Banging them, stubbing them, or dropping something on them are a few different ways this trauma can occur. 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 or fracture. Another type of trauma that can break a toe is repeated activity that places stress on the toe for prolonged periods of time.

Broken toes can be categorized as either minor or severe fractures. Symptoms of minor toe fractures include throbbing pain, swelling, bruising on the skin and toenail, and the inability to move the toe with ease. Severe toe fractures require medical attention and are indicated when the broken toe appears crooked or disfigured, when there is tingling or numbness in the toe, or when there is an open, bleeding wound present on the toe.

Generally, a minor toe break will heal without long-term complications. However, it is important to discontinue activities that put pressure on the toe. It is best to stay off of the injured toe and immediately get a splint or cast to prevent any more additional movement of the toe bones. You can also immobilize your toe by placing a small cotton ball between the injured toe and the toe beside it. Then, tape the two toes together with medical tape. Swelling can be alleviated by placing an ice pack on the broken toe directly as well as elevating your feet above your head.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery, especially when the big toe has been broken. Due to its position and the pressure the big toe endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if it is not properly treated. Pain associated with minor toe fractures can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications. Prescription pain killers may be necessary for severe toe fractures.

The healing time for a broken toe is approximately four to six weeks. In severe cases where the toe becomes infected or requires surgery, healing time can take up to eight weeks or more. While complications associated with a broken toe are immediately apparent, it is important to note that there are rare cases when additional complications, such as osteoarthritis, can develop over time. You should immediately speak with your podiatrist if you think you have broken your toe due to trauma. They will be able to diagnose the injury and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

Tuesday, 23 July 2019 00:00

Broken Toe Facts

Broken toes are often caused by trauma or injury. Repetitive movements can cause a break to turn into a stress or hairline fracture. Symptoms of a broken toe include pain, swelling, stiffness, bruising, and difficulty walking. The most common causes of a broken toe are stubbing the toe and dropping a heavy object on it. When compared to other parts of the foot, the toes are the most likely to get injured due to their location at the front of the feet. It is important to seek an opinion after the injury has occurred in order to ensure proper treatment and healing can take place. In order to diagnose whether it is a break or not, a doctor will ask questions of how the injury occurred and they will also administer an X-ray to confirm it. If you feel that you have sustained a broken toe, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Anna Petrov from Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor 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.

Tuesday, 23 July 2019 00:00

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Monday, 15 July 2019 00:00

Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus is a frustrating problem that affects many people. It can be persistent and hard to get rid of. As many different types of fungi are present throughout the environment, it is very easy to contract toenail fungus.

The feet are especially susceptible to toenail fungus because shoes and socks create the ideal dark and moist environment that fungal infections thrive in. While fungal infections of the nail plate are quite common, if left untreated they can spread beyond the toenail and into the skin and other parts of the body.

Signs of toenail fungus include a thickened nail that has become yellow or brown in color, a foul smell, and debris beneath the nail. The toe may become painful due to the pressure of a thicker nail or the buildup of debris.

Treatment for toenail fungus is most effective during the early stages of an infection. If there is an accumulation of debris beneath the nail plate, an ingrown nail or a more serious infection can occur. While each treatment varies between patients, your podiatrist may prescribe you oral medications, topical liquids and creams, or laser therapy. To determine the best treatment process for you, be sure to visit your podiatrist at the first signs of toenail fungus.

Monday, 15 July 2019 00:00

Signs You May Have Toenail Fungus

The symptoms of toenail fungus are fairly noticeable. An obvious sign that you may have developed this condition often includes a discoloration of the toenail. It will typically start with the big toenail, and will begin by turning a yellowish color. If it is not promptly treated, the nail may become brittle and crumble, and can gradually pull away from the toe. The fungus that causes this condition lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These include public pools, locker rooms, and shower room floors. When appropriate shoes are worn, the chances of getting toenail fungus may be diminished. If you feel you have developed this condition, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat this condition.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Anna Petrov of Family Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wheeling and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.