Foot injuries in the workplace are classified into two general categories, injuries or slips and falls. Common foot injuries include punctures, crushing, sprains, and cuts. Among the other conditions that result in pain are calluses, ingrown toenails, and tired feet. Long periods of standing and the type of shoes worn may also contribute to foot pain on the job. High heels, pointed shoes, lack of arch support, and shoes that are too loose or tight may contribute to foot pain. Workplace safety experts recommend replacing footwear with better options. Included are shoes that grip the heel firmly, while the front of the shoe allows the toes to move freely. Choose shoes that fasten across the instep to help prevent tripping. The heels of the shoe should be no higher than 2.5 inches and no lower than the ball of the foot. Have the feet measured properly before purchase, and if the feet are different sizes, it is best to purchase the larger size. Wearing socks and stockings that are too tight can also contribute to foot pain. If you are having trouble with job-related foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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 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.

There are some people who roll their ankle, and refer to it as an ankle sprain. It is considered to be one of the most common injuries among people who participate in sporting activities, and affects the ligaments in the ankle. It can also happen from unexpectedly stepping off of a curb, where the ankle can suddenly twist. A diagnosis is often performed, which consists of having an X-ray taken. This is generally successful in confirming the sprain and ruling out a fractured foot. Treatment can begin with resting the affected foot as often as possible, and elevating it may help to reduce existing swelling. It is beneficial to keep weight off of the foot, and wearing a protective boot or using crutches may help with mobility. Relief may be found when the ankle is wrapped in an elastic bandage, which can  provide the necessary support as the healing process occurs. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose it, and offer relief and treatment solutions.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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.

Diabetes is a condition that can affect the feet. Maintaining proper diabetic foot care is crucial in preventing unwanted foot ailments from developing. This can begin by washing and drying the feet every day, followed by applying a moisturizer on them. It is helpful to refrain from using any creams between the toes, as this may lead to additional foot conditions. Diabetic patients may have neuropathy, which is the inability to feel sensations in the feet and lower legs. As a result,  using a mirror is a good way to check the soles of the feet for any cuts or scrapes that may have developed. It is beneficial to have the toenails properly trimmed weekly, and this helps to prevent an ingrown toenail from developing. Many people who are diabetic know the importance of refraining from walking barefoot, which can be detrimental to the feet. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who 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 Rahil Baxamusa, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor 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 Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Many people who have foot pain often hope to find relief and seek medical advice from a podiatrist. These are physicians who specialize in treating disorders of the feet and ankles and can provide a diagnosis for existing foot pain. The mandatory education to become a podiatrist begins with obtaining a bachelor's degree, followed by enrolling in a podiatry medical school. This will take four years to complete, and a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM, degree will be earned. During the last two years, some of the topics that are covered can include biomechanics, sports medicine, and podiatric pathology. Once the medical school is completed, a residency program can begin and can last between 24 and 36 months. Podiatrists have options such as practicing in a private or group practice or a hospital setting, or may choose sports podiatry. If you are interested in pursuing a career in podiatry, it is suggested that you speak with this type of doctor who can answer any questions you may have.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. 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?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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.

Any runner knows that preventing a running injury by looking after the health of the feet is an essential part of being a good runner. One way in which a runner can do this is by performing balance enhancing stretches. For example, to improve balance, a runner may consider performing a single leg balance stretch and squat. During this stretch, a runner stands on one leg while slowly and squatting repeatedly. By doing this stretch, a runner can essentially improve the extent to which they land evenly on each foot while running. If you are a runner looking to prevent the onset of running injuries, then it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist today for advice and possible treatment.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Rahil Baxamusa, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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.