Blisters develop on the feet when the outer layer of skin separates from the layers beneath and fluid fills the space, often as a result of friction. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause repetitive rubbing. Moisture from sweat can worsen friction, making blister formation more likely. Socks that bunch or trap moisture also increase the risk. Beyond footwear, increased activity like running or long periods of walking places additional pressure on the feet and may lead to blister formation. Fungal or bacterial infections, such as athlete’s foot or impetigo, can also trigger blistering. Blisters should not be intentionally popped, as this increases the risk of infection. A podiatrist can examine the cause, relieve discomfort, and provide guidance to prevent recurrence. If you have painful blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for safe and sterile treatment.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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.

Flat feet, also called pes planus, occur when the longitudinal arch along the inside of the foot is lowered or absent, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition may affect one or both feet and is common in children until the arch develops, usually by the age of 5. Some people remain flat-footed into adulthood without symptoms, while others may begin to feel pain in the feet, toes, or ankles. Discomfort may arise from excessive standing, running, or jumping, poorly fitted shoes, sudden weight gain, or injury. Flat feet can also be inherited or linked to conditions such as diabetes or arthritis. A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of the feet, recommend orthotics for improved alignment, and in rare cases, discuss surgery if severe problems occur. If you have pain related to flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Ankle N Foot. our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

The Achilles tendon is the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, allowing you to walk, run, and jump. Overuse, sudden increases in activity, or poor footwear can lead to Achilles tendinopathy, a condition marked by stiffness, swelling, and pain at the back of the ankle. In more severe cases, the tendon may partially or completely tear, often causing sudden, sharp pain and difficulty walking. These injuries are more common in active adults, but can happen to anyone, especially during activities that involve explosive movements. Prompt evaluation is important, as untreated tendon problems can lead to chronic pain or reduced mobility. Treatment may include rest, targeted exercises, supportive footwear, or surgery for a rupture. If you experience persistent heel or ankle pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, 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.

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 offices located in Chicago, Elmhurst, Bartlett, IL and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A broken ankle is more than just a simple fracture. Without proper treatment, it can lead to long-term problems that affect mobility and quality of life. One possible complication is poor bone healing, which can result in chronic pain or joint instability. Damage to surrounding ligaments, tendons, or blood vessels may also occur, increasing recovery time and impacting function. Infections can develop after surgery or when the skin around the injury is damaged. Arthritis in the ankle joint is another potential long-term outcome, especially if the break involves the joint surface. Early and accurate treatment is essential to reduce these risks and promote full recovery. If you have suffered an ankle fracture or continue to experience pain and swelling after an injury, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for appropriate care.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.