Swelling in the feet and ankles, or edema, can stem from various causes. Among the causes of swollen ankles and feet is an abnormal fluid buildup that may result from high sodium intake. Other factors that cause swelling in the feet and ankles include prolonged periods of sitting or standing, injuries, or underlying medical conditions, such as heart or kidney disease. A genetic predisposition can also contribute to thicker ankles, and may be influenced by obesity or the structural absence of a defined calf muscle. Fluid retention, which is often linked to excessive sodium consumption or impaired sodium regulation in the body, can increase swelling, particularly in individuals with heart disease. Pregnancy commonly leads to swollen ankles and feet due to increased fluid volume and pressure from the growing uterus. Managing swollen ankles involves lifestyle adjustments, such as reducing sodium intake, staying hydrated, maintaining regular physical activity, and seeking medical guidance when necessary. If swelling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can conduct a thorough exam and offer the appropriate treatment options. 

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein of Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Custom-made orthotics are often an effective solution for alleviating foot pain and promoting overall foot health. These specially crafted insoles are designed to provide personalized support and cushioning, catering to the unique needs of an individual. Orthotics work by offering targeted support to areas of the foot that may be experiencing discomfort or strain. They can help correct issues like overpronation or underpronation, which can lead to various foot problems. By providing proper alignment and cushioning, custom orthotics can reduce pressure on the arches, heels, and metatarsal areas, addressing conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or flat feet. One significant advantage of custom orthotics is their tailored fit. They are created based on a detailed analysis of an individual's foot structure and gait pattern, ensuring a precise and comfortable fit. Whether you are an athlete seeking improved performance or someone dealing with chronic foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether custom-made orthotics can help you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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.

Debilitating arthritis often affects the big toe, a condition referred to as hallux rigidus. In cases where conservative treatments fall short, cheilectomy surgery may be an option. This procedure aims to address the impact of arthritis by removing bone spurs that form on the top of the big toe. Bone spurs, or bony lumps, are a common result of hallux rigidus and can lead to pain and limited range of motion. The body produces these spurs as a protective measure to restrict movement, to alleviate arthritic pain. Those considering cheilectomy typically experience pain while wearing shoes and may view this surgery as a treatment option for early-stage arthritis of the big toe. Cheilectomy is a relatively simple foot operation, and most patients can expect a full recovery within six to eight weeks post-surgery. The primary objective of the procedure is to eliminate the bone spur, providing relief from pain and enhancing toe mobility. If you are grappling with persistent big toe pain or restricted movement, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist. This foot doctor can assess your condition and help determine whether a cheilectomy is a suitable solution.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein of Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, unfolds as a consequence of the crystallization of uric acid in the joints. Uric acid, a byproduct of purine metabolism, accumulates in the bloodstream when the body either produces too much or eliminates too little of it. This surplus uric acid transforms into sharp crystals, typically depositing in joints, most commonly the big toe. The inflammatory response triggered by these crystals leads to the excruciating pain, swelling, and redness characteristic of gout attacks. Contributing factors to elevated uric acid levels include a diet rich in purine-containing foods, excessive alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions affecting uric acid regulation. Gout often manifests in intermittent attacks, emphasizing the cyclical nature of the condition. If you have severe pain in your big toe, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat gout.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. 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 Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Hammer toe surgery serves as an effective remedy, particularly when the deformity stands as the primary concern. Yet, in some cases surgical intervention is a must. Tendon transfer is a suitable option for correcting flexible hammer toes. This surgical approach involves repositioning the toe by pulling a nearby tendon across the joint. The procedure effectively corrects muscle weaknesses, enhances the toe's appearance, and mitigates associated pain. In instances of fixed hammer toes, joint resection proves beneficial. This surgical technique requires the cutting of ligaments and tendons to straighten the toe, potentially involving the removal of a portion of the bone. Temporary pins may be employed to maintain alignment, and they are typically removed several weeks post-surgery. For severe fixed hammer toes, fusion emerges as a possible solution. This process entails removing portions of the joint to facilitate bone fusion. Tendons, ligaments, and bone ends are cut, and the joint is stabilized using pins until the process is complete. If you have a hammertoe that impedes completing everyday activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to determine the most appropriate surgical option 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.