Monday, December 31, 2007

Happy New Year!

We wish all our patients, friends, readers and visitors best of everything for the New Year, so that you can all enjoy each day in comfort and health!

Chicago Podiatric Surgeons

Sunday, December 30, 2007

Corns, Calluses & Warts

Corns, calluses and warts are areas of thickened skin irritations that can occur on the foot. Calluses are thick, painful skin irritations that can occur on the bottom of the foot. If the thickened area is on top of the toes, we call it a corn. Corns are usually caused by shoes pressing against the toes. They are made worse if the toe is crooked or contracted (hammertoe). These areas generally represent areas of excessive pressure or friction in shoes or while walking on hard surfaces. Caution should be used whenever using any type of corn or callus removers because these medications contain acids that burn the thickened skin off. If you have diabetes, you should never use these medications without a physician's guidance. These irritations will generally reoccur after use of these medications because the source of irritation is still present. Home remedies might include shoe cushions or pads, and if they are between the toes, pads might be used. Warm water soaks and then buffing with a pumice stone may help. Creams and lotions may be of some temporary help. If none of this helps it's best to consult a specialis.

Monday, December 17, 2007

Tuesday, December 4, 2007

Weak Ankles Lead to Chronic Injuries

Do you suffer from frequent ankle sprains or feel like your ankle is going to give out? Do you feel unstable on uneven or sloped surfaces? If so, you may have chronic ankle instability. Ankle sprains represent about 85% of all ankle injuries
in the U.S. While ankle sprains often involve injury to the ligaments of the ankle, other structures in this area may also be damaged, including tendons, nerves, or cartilage. The full extent of the damage may not be apparent for weeks or even months after the initial injury or as you attempt to return to full activity.
Chronic ankle instability is characterized by a recurring “giving way” of the ankle. In addition to the swelling and pain associated with ankle sprains, structural changes of the ankle may occur, including arthritis. Many athletes suffer from chronic ankle instability due to repetitive injuries. If you suffer from frequent ankle sprains or feel you have “weak” ankles, this is a serious condition that needs to be evaluated.