Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, especially between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, communal showers, and sweaty shoes. Many people first notice itching, burning, or peeling skin that becomes more irritated after activity. As the condition progresses, the skin may crack, blister, or appear scaly and red, making walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. The fungus spreads easily through shared surfaces, wearing damp socks, or contaminated footwear. Keeping the feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and choosing breathable shoes can help reduce risk. Stubborn infections often require professional care to fully clear and prevent recurrence. If the itching persists, the skin becomes painful, or the infection keeps returning, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and effective treatment.

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 Rahil Baxamusa, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor 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 Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wearing the right shoes while working in the cold weather is essential for protecting your feet, maintaining comfort, and preventing injury. Wool sneakers or high-top shoes provide warmth and flexibility, keeping feet insulated while allowing natural movement. Leather boots offer durability, support, and water resistance, making them ideal for demanding tasks in snowy or wet conditions. For active winter days, lightweight shoes with good traction provide comfort and help prevent slips or falls. Wearing proper footwear also supports circulation and reduces the risk of frostbite or cold-related discomfort. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, recommend the best shoes for your work environment, and provide guidance to prevent cold-weather foot problems. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes for the environment during your workday, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips and guide you on the correct shoes to wear.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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

A rupture of the Achilles tendon, the strong cord that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, often causes sudden pain in the back of the ankle and difficulty pushing off the foot. An Achilles tendon rupture usually occurs during activities that involve a quick change in direction or an explosive push from the foot. When the tendon tears, patients often describe hearing or feeling a “pop,” followed by swelling and weakness when standing on the toes. A podiatrist can diagnose this injury through a physical exam and imaging tests to confirm the extent of the rupture. Treatment depends on the severity of the tear and can involve immobilization with a boot or surgery to repair the tendon. Early, controlled movement during recovery helps maintain strength and flexibility while reducing the chance of re-injury. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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 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 Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Arthritis can quietly change how your feet move and feel, making each step more challenging. As joints become inflamed and stiff, the natural padding and flexibility of the foot can diminish, leading to soreness, swelling, and changes in shape. These changes often make regular shoes uncomfortable or even painful. Choosing the right footwear becomes essential. Styles with a wide toe box, soft cushioning, and supportive soles can help reduce strain and improve stability. Custom orthotics or inserts designed by a podiatrist can also provide relief by evenly distributing pressure and improving alignment. When pain persists, additional treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications, targeted exercise, or advanced podiatric care may be needed to restore comfort and mobility. If arthritis-related foot pain is affecting your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for evaluation and tailored solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor 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 Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.