May 2020

The second and third toes may be impacted by the medical condition that is known as hammertoe. The toe bends at the joint in an upward position, and often resembles a hammer. It is considered to be a deformity, and in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to permanently straighten the toes.There are two stages of hammertoe. When this condition is first noticed, the joints can be flexible, and relief may be found when the correct shoes are worn. Additionally, there are specific stretches that can be performed which may help to strengthen the toes. When the condition becomes more severe, it is referred to as rigid hammertoe, and the joints are unable to move. A common reason why this condition may develop can consist of wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Additionally, genetic factors may lead to developing hammertoe. Please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this ailment, and suggest treatment options that are correct for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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

The noticeable symptoms of a broken toe often include bruising, swelling, and redness. In severe cases, the affected toe may appear deformed, and surgery may be required for complete healing.This type of injury generally happens as a result of stubbing the toe into a piece of furniture, or from a heavy object dropping on it. It can be beneficial to elevate the foot as often as possible, and this may help to reduce existing swelling. A common treatment method is known as buddy taping. This is implemented by taping the broken toe to the toe next to it, and this may be helpful in providing the necessary support as the healing process takes place. A broken toe requires a proper diagnosis and prompt treatment. If you have endured this type of injury, please consult with a podiatrist who can effectively treat broken toes.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Swelling
• Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
• Stiffness
• Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

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

Diabetes is a common ailment many people are afflicted with. It is important to take proper care of the feet, and this especially applies to diabetic patients. Several complications may develop on the feet if there are bruises or wounds that are left unattended. A cut may develop into a foot ulcer, which may lead to possible amputation, if left untreated. It may be difficult to feel temperature changes or existing cuts, and this may be a result of neuropathy. It is beneficial to address symptoms that can affect the feet, which may be helpful in preventing painful foot conditions. These signs can include swollen feet, sores and cuts that heal slowly, and there may be a burning sensation. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and monitor this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Research has indicated the sport of running is a popular form of exercise among all groups of people. Many children and teenagers enjoy participating in track and field during school, and generally will perform proper warm up and cool down techniques. These can be helpful in preventing running injuries, and should be incorporated into a daily routine if you regularly run. It is beneficial to slowly increase the mileage and the time running is practiced, which can help to prevent stress fractures and injuries from overuse. Additionally, eating healthy foods may help the body to maintain strength, and it is necessary to get adequate sleep as often as possible as well. Many runners know the importance of resting between runs, which can allow the body to recover. If you would like more information about injury prevention, and how the feet may become affected by running injuries, please consult with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein of Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

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