The pain located between the third and fourth toes is a foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma. It is also referred to as Morton’s syndrome, and is defined as a compressed nerve in the top of the foot. Patients notice that it is difficult to push off with the forefoot, and it can feel like a pins and needles sensation. Morton’s neuroma may be prevalent among people who have flat feet, and this may cause the foot to gradually compress the nerve. Many cases of Morton’s neuroma are caused by wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely. Additionally, participating in sporting activities like golf and tennis may lead to this condition. The affected foot will often feel better when it is frequently elevated and rested, and it may help to wear a protective pad in the shoes for additional cushioning. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can treat it accordingly.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Gerber Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors 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 our office located in Evanston, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

People who have flat feet often look toward stretching and exercising which may help any discomfort that can accompany this ailment. Flat feet are defined as the foot having a low arch, or the arch being absent. It is noticeable while standing on the floor, and the entire foot lies flat. It is considered to be an imbalance, and can affect other parts of the body. The feet are the foundation of the body, and carry us through the day. When the feet connect to the ground, and there is no arch, the plantar fascia may be negatively affected, and may cause pain and discomfort. This is the band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. This can produce tight calf muscles. There are simple stretches that can help to relieve the discomfort. These can consist of standing on a step and lowering the heels one at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. Additionally, many people choose to roll the sole of their foot over a tennis ball, and this can be beneficial in releasing any tension in the foot. If you have flat feet, and would like to learn more about how stretches can help you, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Gerber Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Heel pain can be caused by a variety of conditions. Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury and the leading cause of heel pain. This is where the plantar fascia tissue on the bottom of the foot—which connects the heel bone with the toes—is overly stressed or torn, and becomes inflamed. Stress on the heel bone, caused by plantar fasciitis, can also trigger a reactionary response in the body where calcium deposits (heel spurs) build up on the heel bone over time. However, heel spurs are not always symptomatic. If a growing child experiences heel pain, they may have Sever’s disease, an inflammation of the growth plate at the back of the heel. Another type of heel pain can be caused by irritation and inflammation of the fluid-filled sac (bursa) at the back of the ankle where the heel connects with the Achilles tendon. This is known as bursitis. Heel pain can also be caused by a nerve leading to the heel that becomes compressed, bumps and bruises, and even systemic diseases like gout and arthritis. If you are experiencing any kind of heel pain, have your condition properly diagnosed and treated by a podiatrist.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Gerber Podiatry Clinic. 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 feel free to contact our office located in Evanston, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Approximately 70% of individuals will develop a form of athlete’s foot at some point in their lives. Therefore, you ought to be aware of what this condition is and how it is linked to certain kinds of footwear. Athlete’s foot is primarily caused by a fungal infection that most commonly affects the outer skin of the foot around the toes. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot thrives in warm, moist, and damp environments. Individuals who walk barefoot in damp, public areas (such as locker rooms and pool sides) are more susceptible to athlete’s foot. However, your footwear also can make you more susceptible. For example, shoes that are tight fitting, especially around the toes, put you at risk of developing athlete’s foot because they essentially squeeze your toes together. This squeezing effect can make the area around the toes warm and moist, facilitating the fungal infection. Also, plastic footwear might make you more prone to developing athlete’s foot. This is because plastic is a material that warms and moistens the feet more than others, like canvas or leather. For more information about athlete’s foot and its connection to certain kinds of footwear, contact a podiatrist.

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 Gerber Podiatry Clinic.  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 office located in Evanston, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.