Ankle pain can make walking, working, and other daily activities uncomfortable. Ankle problems are common and may begin after an injury, such as tripping or rolling the ankle. Pain can also develop from a flare-up of an existing problem or weakness in the muscles surrounding the joint. Soft-tissue injuries are another frequent cause. Soft tissues include the ligaments, muscles, and tendons that help support and move the ankle. Depending on the problem, symptoms may include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Discomfort can also affect nearby areas of the foot or calf.

An ankle problem may change the way a person walks and sometimes cause a noticeable limp. Symptoms vary depending on the cause and severity of the problem. While many new ankle problems gradually improve, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention. Significant trauma, difficulty placing weight on the leg, or an ankle that appears misshapen should be professionally evaluated. Redness and warmth around the ankle accompanied by feeling feverish or unwell can indicate an infection. A calf that becomes hot, swollen, and tender is another reason to seek medical care. Persistent or worsening ankle pain should also receive professional attention.

A podiatrist can examine the ankle to determine whether the symptoms involve the muscles, ligaments, or tendons surrounding the joint. An evaluation may include reviewing how the problem started and checking the ankle for swelling, stiffness, and changes in movement. Understanding the cause of the pain allows the podiatrist to recommend appropriate treatment based on the individual problem. Professional care can also help address ankle problems that interfere with walking or continue to worsen. Early evaluation is especially important after significant injuries or when symptoms suggest a more serious problem. If ankle pain, swelling, or stiffness continues to affect your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Palos Heights, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Swelling in the feet and ankles often develops when fluid builds up in the tissues. This type of swelling is known as edema and can affect one or both feet. The feet may look larger or puffier than usual, and the skin may appear shiny or stretched. Some people also experience discomfort, stiffness, or changes in skin color. In certain cases, pressing the swollen skin may temporarily leave a dent. Foot swelling can have many causes, so noticing when it begins and whether other symptoms are present can help determine whether medical attention is needed.

Several factors can contribute to swollen feet and ankles. Remaining in the same position for a long time can lead to swelling, as can pregnancy or certain medications. Varicose veins and thyroid problems may also contribute to edema. Other causes can be more serious. An injury may lead to swelling in the affected area, while an infection can cause additional symptoms. Problems involving the heart, kidneys, or liver can also cause fluid to collect in the feet and legs. A blood clot is another possible cause. Sudden, severe, or unexplained swelling should receive prompt medical attention.

A podiatrist can examine swollen feet and ankles and look for signs that may help identify the underlying problem. An evaluation may include checking the skin, areas of tenderness, and the extent of the swelling. Because edema can result from many different health concerns, a podiatrist may recommend additional medical evaluation when the swelling appears related to a condition outside the feet. Treatment depends on what is causing the fluid buildup rather than the swelling alone. Professional assessment is especially important when swelling is painful, appears suddenly, or occurs with redness and warmth. If persistent or unexplained swelling is affecting your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied of Palos Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid crystals collecting inside a joint. It commonly targets the big toe, where an attack can cause sudden, intense pain. Gout attacks can begin at night, when cooler temperatures may encourage crystal formation in the extremities. Symptoms often develop quickly and can make walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable.

Gout develops when uric acid levels become too high and crystals form within a joint. Risk factors include family history, obesity, and diets high in purine-rich foods. Certain medications and alcohol use can raise uric acid levels. The big toe is especially vulnerable because it is one of the coolest joints in the body. Temperature changes can encourage uric acid crystals to collect there, triggering painful inflammation.

A bunion can affect the big toe, but it is different from gout. A bunion is a structural deformity where the big toe moves toward the other toes while the joint becomes prominent. Gout usually causes sudden attacks rather than a slowly developing bump. A podiatrist examines the foot and reviews your symptoms and health history. Blood tests or joint fluid testing may help confirm gout. Treatment may include medications, footwear changes, and strategies that reduce pressure during an attack.

Getting the correct diagnosis matters because gout and bunions require different treatment approaches. A podiatrist can help manage a gout attack and identify factors that may contribute to repeated episodes. Seek podiatric care when big toe pain appears suddenly or keeps returning, especially at night. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this often debilitating condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Sever’s disease causes heel pain in growing children, especially those who are physically active. It usually develops between ages eight and 14, when the heel bone is going through a period of growth. The condition affects the growth area where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone. This area is still developing from cartilage into mature bone. Repeated stress from running or jumping can irritate it and cause pain. Symptoms include heel pain with exercise, increased pain after activity, and limping. Some children also walk on their toes to reduce pressure on the painful heel. One or both heels can be affected.

Growth and activity levels can influence the development of Sever’s disease. A child can experience symptoms after increasing the amount or intensity of sports participation. Starting a new sport can also place different demands on the heel. Activities that involve frequent running and jumping are strongly linked with symptoms. Changes in height and weight can contribute as the body develops. Foot structure can play a role as well. Children with flat-foot posture can have a slightly greater risk. Certain shoes, especially those with a low heel, can place added strain on the growth area by increasing tension through the Achilles tendon.

A podiatrist can evaluate heel pain by discussing symptoms and examining the child’s feet and legs. X-rays are generally not used to diagnose Sever’s disease, although imaging can sometimes help rule out another cause of heel pain. Treatment focuses on reducing pain while managing activity appropriately. A podiatrist can recommend activity changes, heel raises, or custom orthotics based on the child’s needs. The condition rarely causes long-term problems once the growth area matures. If your active child has symptoms of Sever’s disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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