Sore ankles after skiing are common because the ankles play an important role in balancing the body and guiding movement on the slopes. When ankle position is off, extra strain can build in the joints and surrounding tissues. Poorly fitted boots can add pressure and limit natural motion, increasing discomfort. Tendon irritation may also develop with repeated stress. Risk factors include fatigue, weak supporting muscles, and improper technique. Symptoms include soreness, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. A podiatrist can assess alignment, recommend proper support, and provide treatment to relieve pain and prevent further injury. If your ankles are sore from skiing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief and treatment solutions, enabling you to return to this popular sport. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lemont, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus often begins with small changes that are easy to miss. A common early sign includes a white, yellow, or brown spot near the tip of the toenail. The nail may also look dull, become thicker, or start to feel brittle and weak. As the infection spreads, the nail can separate from the skin underneath, which may cause discomfort when walking or wearing shoes. In some cases, debris can build up under the nail, and the nail may develop an unpleasant odor. Toenail fungus is more likely to develop in warm, moist places and can happen after nail injuries or from wearing tight shoes . A podiatrist can examine the nail, confirm if fungus is present, and provide treatment that includes trimming damaged nail tissue and prescribing antifungal medicine to stop the infection from spreading. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lemont, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain is a common problem that can affect people of all ages. It may feel like aching, sharp discomfort, burning, or stiffness, and it can make standing or walking difficult. Because the feet carry your body weight every day, even small issues can turn into bigger problems over time. There are several common causes of foot pain. Overuse from long periods of standing, walking, or exercise can strain muscles and joints. Wearing tight or unsupportive shoes can lead to problems like bunions or heel pain. Injuries such as sprains or small fractures may also be responsible. In some cases, conditions like arthritis or nerve irritation can cause ongoing discomfort. Paying attention to your footwear, activity level, and early symptoms can help prevent worsening pain. If your foot discomfort does not improve, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist to find the cause and get the right treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors 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 Lemont, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As people age, changes in the lower limbs can quietly raise the chance of losing stability and stumbling. Reduced muscle power in the toes, along with stiff joints, can alter walking patterns and slow reactions. Ill-fitting shoes or worn soles further increase the likelihood of trips. Many seniors also develop sensory loss, making it harder to detect surfaces and obstacles. Targeted care can help, including tailored exercises for the lower limbs and guidance on properly fitted, supportive shoes. Regular assessment allows early identification of issues and timely management. Addressing these factors can improve confidence during daily activities and lower injury risk. Podiatrists can recommend skin care, orthoses, and routine nail maintenance, while coordinating with other clinicians to support safer movement and independence at home and in the community. If you are a senior and have developed foot pain or are looking for additional fall prevention tips, it is suggested that you schedule routine visits with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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