Many women notice changes in their feet during pregnancy, often leading to the question of whether their feet actually grow. The answer is yes, as hormonal changes and weight gain can cause the ligaments in the feet to relax, leading to a widening and lengthening of the foot. This is largely due to the hormone relaxin, which prepares the body for childbirth by loosening ligaments. Additionally, the increased weight and fluid retention can contribute to swelling. For some women, feet may return to their pre-pregnancy size after childbirth, while others find their feet remain larger permanently. This lasting change can be attributed to factors such as age, genetics, and the amount of weight gained during pregnancy. If you have developed foot pain or other foot problems during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief solutions.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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 and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can cause intense pain and discomfort, often affecting the heel. This condition arises when uric acid levels in the blood become elevated, leading to the formation of sharp crystals in the joints. Symptoms of gout in the heel typically include sudden, severe pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area. The pain may be most intense during the night or early morning, making it difficult to walk or put weight on the heel. Several factors can contribute to the development of gout, including a diet high in purines found in red meats, shellfish, and alcoholic beverages. Other risk factors include obesity, certain medical conditions, and genetic predisposition. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose gout in the heel, and offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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.

Proper foot care is vital for diabetic patients, as diabetes can lead to nerve damage and poor circulation, which increase the risk of foot complications. Regularly inspecting the feet for cuts, blisters, or redness is essential, as early detection can prevent serious issues. Keeping the feet clean and dry helps reduce the risk of infections. It is important to moisturize the skin, but avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent excess moisture. Wearing well-fitted shoes is important to prevent friction and blisters, while checking inside shoes for foreign objects daily can help avoid injuries. Maintaining blood sugar levels within a target range contributes to overall foot health. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist and schedule routine visits. This type of doctor can help you to manage this serious 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 one of our podiatrists from DM Foot & Ankle Associates . Our doctors 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 our office located in Lemont, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot pain can stem from a variety of causes, affecting daily activities and overall quality of life. Diseases such as arthritis and diabetes can lead to inflammation and nerve damage, resulting in chronic discomfort. Deformities like bunions or hammertoes change the structure of the foot, often causing pain during movement. Biomechanical conditions, including flat feet or high arches, can disrupt weight distribution and lead to strain on the muscles and ligaments. Additionally, wearing improper footwear is a significant contributor to foot pain, and shoes that lack support or fit poorly can worsen existing issues. Injuries from sports, falls, or accidents can also cause acute pain, impacting mobility. Any type of foot pain can cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If you have developed foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide an accurate 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 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.

The Achilles tendon is a strong, fibrous band that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It enables you to walk, run, and jump. When overstressed, the Achilles tendon can tear or rupture. This causes a sharp pain at the back of the leg or ankle, often accompanied by a snapping sound. Patients may experience trouble standing on their toes, walking, or climbing the stairs. Swelling and bruising surrounding the ankle or foot are other symptoms. Achilles tendon injuries commonly occur during sports involving sudden directional changes, such as basketball or tennis. A diagnosis is usually made through a physical exam, but imaging, like an MRI scan, may be required. Treatment varies based on the severity and may involve a splint, boot, or surgery. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of the Achilles tendon injury and recommend a treatment plan to promote proper healing and prevent re-injury. If you have ruptured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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