As people age, foot strength and stability play a major role in balance and mobility. Weakness in the toes and ankles can make walking less steady, increasing the risk of slips or falls. Many older adults also wear shoes that do not fit properly or lack support, further compromising safety. Strengthening the feet through simple exercises and choosing footwear designed for stability can make a significant difference in maintaining independence. Podiatrists can assess foot function, recommend balance-improving footwear, and design targeted exercise programs to build strength in the toes and arches. These steps are especially important when combined with care from other health professionals to support overall movement and confidence. If you have noticed changes in your balance or foot strength, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and personalized care.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle N Foot. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, can cause nails to become thick, brittle, and discolored. Treating this condition often requires a combination of professional care and topical or oral antifungal medications. One helpful option is urea, which can soften thickened nails and allow antifungal treatments to penetrate more effectively. When used in higher concentrations, it may also help remove damaged nail tissue, creating a cleaner surface for healing. Additional treatments may include debridement or prescription medications, depending on the severity of the infection. Maintaining good foot hygiene, keeping nails trimmed, and wearing breathable shoes can help prevent recurrence. Because nail fungus can worsen over time or spread to other nails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Ankle N Foot. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Neuropathy is a condition that quietly affects the nerves, often starting in the feet. Many people describe it as tingling, burning, or a sensation of walking on pebbles. It can make simple movements feel uncertain and lead to balance issues, over time. The causes vary, including diabetes, circulatory problems, and certain medications, but the impact is always personal. When nerve signals misfire, daily comfort and safety can be compromised. Early diagnosis is important because timely treatment can slow progression and ease discomfort. A podiatrist can perform specialized testing to evaluate nerve function and develop a personalized plan to protect your feet and improve circulation. Healthy nerves are essential for confident steps and overall well-being. If you notice numbness, burning, or unexplained pain in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an expert diagnosis and appropriate care.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Ankle N Foot. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Swollen feet are a common concern during pregnancy, caused by increased blood volume, fluid retention, and pressure from the growing uterus. While mild swelling is normal, sudden or severe swelling can be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition involving high blood pressure and potential organ complications. Symptoms of preeclampsia include rapid swelling in the feet, hands, or face, as well as headaches and vision changes. A podiatrist can help relieve pregnancy-related foot swelling by recommending supportive footwear, gentle exercises, compression socks, and safe foot elevation techniques. They can also identify symptoms that require medical attention. If you notice your feet and ankles are swollen during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can identify the cause and offer effective relief and management tips.

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 Ankle N Foot. 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 offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.