Items filtered by date: November 2023

A sports podiatrist is a healthcare specialist focused on treating and preventing foot and lower limb issues in athletes and other active individuals. They have a deep understanding of how the feet and legs function during physical activities and the specific stresses different sports place on these body parts. The role of a sports podiatrist is vital in enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries. Sports podiatrists conduct thorough assessments, including gait analysis and biomechanical evaluations, to understand an athlete's foot structure and movement patterns. They offer expert advice on appropriate footwear and can design custom orthotic devices to correct biomechanical imbalances, enhance performance, or prevent injuries. They also treat a range of sports-related foot and ankle problems, ranging from overuse injuries to acute traumas. While all podiatrists can treat sports injuries to some degree, a sports podiatrist offers a more focused expertise in managing and preventing injuries specifically in athletes and those engaged in regular physical activities. If you are an athlete and are experiencing foot or ankle problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who has experience with sports injuries for an evaluation.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

A bunion, or hallux valgus, is a common and often painful foot deformity that affects the joint at the base of the big toe. It manifests as a bony protrusion on the side of the foot, causing the big toe to drift towards the second toe. This misalignment of the joint results in the characteristic bump and can lead to discomfort, inflammation, and difficulty in finding properly fitting footwear. The primary cause of bunions is a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Inherited foot structures that predispose individuals to bunions, like flat feet or low arches, can increase the likelihood of developing this condition. Wearing tight-fitting shoes, particularly those with pointed toes or high heels, can exacerbate the problem or speed up its progression. High levels of stress on the foot or repetitive motion can also contribute to bunion formation. Understanding the causes of bunions is the first step in managing and preventing this condition. When detected early, conservative treatment methods can be helpful. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to correct the alignment and provide lasting relief. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward the most appropriate course of treatment based on your specific condition.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Baseball is a dynamic sport that requires players to engage in varied physical activities such as sprinting to bases, batting, throwing, and pitching. Players often experience rapid changes in movement, from running in straight sprints to shifting side to side while taking leads or fielding. Stability is vital, particularly in the lower body, to manage the force from these movements. The right foot is especially important due to its frequent contact with the base corners while running. Sliding injuries are common, with feet-first slides presenting a higher injury rate than head-first ones. Most injuries from sliding are minor, although some can sideline players for over a week. The introduction of breakaway bases has helped reduce such injuries. Pitchers need shoes with rigid soles for effective push-off, while catchers require flexibility in the forefoot due to their crouched position. All foot types, whether arched or flat, can adapt to the sport. Baseball injuries can vary, but a comprehensive approach to treatment includes a full history and physical exam, including an assessment of the player's shoes and gait. If you have endured a baseball foot injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor 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
• Plantar Fasciosis
• 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 feel free to contact our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition that affects the nerves above the third and fourth metatarsals of the foot and leads to discomfort and mobility issues. Treatment approaches of Morton's neuroma vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. Non-surgical treatment includes wearing custom insoles prescribed by a podiatrist to specifically address the pain generated in the ball of the foot. These insoles can offer tailored support, alter foot mechanics, and absorb shock. They also provide targeted relief and improved gait, making them a valuable option for those seeking comfort and mobility. Further, orthotic devices can support the arch of the foot and correct other biomechanical issues. In more severe cases, advanced treatment options are available. Steroid injections may offer relief for up to five years in some cases, although results can vary. Surgical interventions, such as nerve removal surgery, are considered when other treatments are ineffective or when a noticeable growth is present. Timely management can help to prevent Morton's neuroma from getting worse, eventually becoming a chronic issue. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to determine what the best treatment plan is for you.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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