Blisters, calluses, and cracked heels are common foot conditions that can cause significant discomfort during daily activities. Blisters form when friction from shoes or repeated movement causes fluid to collect under the skin. They may appear as raised, tender areas that feel sensitive when walking. Callouses develop when the skin thickens in response to pressure or friction, often on the ball of the foot or heel. While they protect the skin, they can become painful if they grow too thick. Cracked heels occur when dry skin splits along the heel, sometimes forming deep fissures that may sting or bleed. These problems are often linked to prolonged standing, poorly fitting shoes, dry skin, or uneven pressure on the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate the foot to determine why these conditions are developing and whether underlying issues, such as foot structure or walking patterns, are contributing to the pain. Treatment may include professional skin care, supportive footwear, and targeted exercises that improve pressure balance. If you have ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Chicago Foot Specialists. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet, particularly between the toes. This condition develops when fungi grow in warm, moist environments that allow organisms to multiply and irritate the skin. Symptoms include itching, burning, redness, peeling skin, cracking, and discomfort while walking. Causes include prolonged moisture exposure, shared locker rooms, tight footwear, and inadequate foot hygiene. Risk factors can include excessive sweating, walking barefoot in public shower areas, and wearing non-breathable shoes for extended periods of time. Environments like gyms, swimming areas, and communal changing rooms may increase exposure. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, recommend antifungal treatment, and guide prevention strategies. Athlete's foot can be uncomfortable. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Chicago Foot Specialists. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

A hammertoe is a condition in which one of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint, creating a curled or claw-like appearance. This change often develops slowly as tendons and muscles become imbalanced. Wearing tight or narrow shoes can push the toes into a cramped position and worsen the deformity. Over time, the toe may become stiff and difficult to straighten. Common symptoms include pain while walking, corns on the top of the toe, and redness from shoe pressure. In early stages, the toe may still be flexible. As the condition progresses, the joint can become rigid. Conservative care may include wearing roomier footwear, using protective padding, and performing gentle stretching exercises. Custom orthotics can also reduce strain on the forefoot. Addressing the problem early may prevent worsening discomfort. If you notice a toe that is bending and causing pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Chicago Foot Specialists. Our practitioners will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Inflammatory arthritis is a group of conditions in which the immune system causes ongoing joint inflammation. Common types include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and gout. These conditions often affect the feet and ankles early, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and changes in joint structure. Over time, inflammation can alter foot shape, increase pressure points, and make walking difficult. Proper foot care helps reduce discomfort and protect mobility. Wearing supportive footwear with cushioning and adequate toe space can limit joint stress, while custom orthotics may improve alignment and pressure distribution. Gentle movement, stretching, and pacing daily activities can also help manage symptoms. Swelling and joint changes increase the risk of skin irritation, calluses, and nail problems, making routine foot checks important. If foot pain, deformity, or walking difficulty develops, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Chicago Foot Specialists. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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