December 2023

Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe due to prolonged stress on the metatarsophalangeal joint. Detecting them is relatively straightforward through visual inspection, often supplemented by X-rays to assess their severity. For runners, bunions can pose significant challenges, exacerbated by poorly fitting running shoes. Many running shoes, characterized by tapered toe boxes and raised heels, can contribute to bunion development over time. Treatment options range from the simple act of changing shoes and employing pain management techniques, such as medication, to using toe spacers and performing bunion massages. If conservative approaches fall short, surgical intervention may be an option, although it is not always a permanent fix. If you are a runner and have a bunion that is causing you pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss pain management techniques that might help you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Laser treatment for fungal nails, a therapeutic modality gaining prominence, involves utilizing concentrated beams of light to target and eradicate fungal infections within the nail bed. This non-invasive procedure harnesses the power of specific wavelengths to penetrate the nail and reach the underlying fungal colonies, without causing harm to surrounding tissues. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigments in the fungal cells, generating heat that neutralizes the infection. Unlike traditional treatments, laser therapy poses minimal risk of side effects and does not necessitate medications. The exact mechanism of laser treatment for fungal nails underscores its precision, selectively targeting the fungal pathogens while preserving the integrity of the nail and surrounding structures. If you have toenail fungus, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can determine if laser treatment is the correct treatment option for you. 

Laser treatment can be an effective way to get rid of toenail fungus. If you have any questions about laser treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment for fungal nails.

What Are Toenail Fungal Infections?

Onychomycosis, or fungal infection of the nail, is a relatively common and non-serious condition. Around 10 percent of U.S. citizens are afflicted with fungal nails. Common forms of fungus that infect the nail include dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.

Symptoms of Toenail Fungal Infections Include:

• Nail thickening
• Brittleness of the nail
• Discoloration of the nail

Diagnosis for Fungal Nails

Fungal infections are diagnosed by fungal culture and microscopy. This will rule out any other conditions such as nail trauma, psoriasis, lichen planus, and onychogryphosis.

What Is Laser Treatment?

Laser treatment is a non-invasive, safe, quick, and painless procedure that uses the heat from a laser to kill fungus in the nail. Each infected nail is targeted with a laser for several minutes. The treatment is usually utilized several different times over a select period. During this time, a podiatrist will keep an eye on the infection.

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

An Achilles tendon tear can be a debilitating injury, but with proper treatment, recovery is possible. The approach to treatment varies depending on the severity of the Achilles tendon tear. For partial tears, a common non-surgical option is immobilization by using a walking boot, leg brace, or splint for approximately six weeks. This restricts movement, allowing the tendon to heal correctly and prevent further damage. Using crutches may be necessary during this period to avoid putting weight on the injured ankle. Rest is an essential component of healing, along with keeping the injured leg elevated. In cases of an Achilles tendon rupture, or complete tear, surgery is likely to be necessary. Before the procedure, patients may wear a walking cast or boot to protect the injured area. During surgery, a podiatrist makes incisions down the back of the heel, reconnects the torn tendon, and stitches the wound closed. In post-surgery, patients wear a cast or splint to immobilize the tendon, with prescribed pain medication, and elevation to aid healing. If you have an Achilles tendon tear or rupture, it is suggested that you schedule an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for guidance on the proper treatment. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

Are you experiencing shooting pain in your heel? Identifying the specific location of the pain can offer valuable insight into the underlying causes. If you are grappling with intense pain and inflammation extending from the heel through the arch of your foot, plantar fasciitis may be the culprit. This condition is caused by the micro-tearing of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. An abnormal bone growth on the bottom of your heel, known as a heel spur, also can be a source of shooting pain. Adjusting your footwear and investing in custom sole inserts can provide the necessary support and shock absorption, easing discomfort over time. If you recently stepped on a hard object with full force on the heel, you may have an injury commonly referred to as a stone bruise. In addition, a high-impact injury from a car accident or fall can lead to heel fractures. Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment are key to overcoming shooting pain in the heel. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort in the heel, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can conduct an examination and guide you toward the appropriate treatment. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . 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 contact one of our offices located in Sycamore, and Yorkville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.