Items filtered by date: July 2025

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the toenail presses into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition commonly affects the big toe and is frequently linked to cutting the toenail too short or trimming down the sides. Shoes that press the toes out of alignment may also contribute to an ingrown toenail. When conservative care is not enough, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to relieve the discomfort and stop infection. Surgery for an ingrown toenail can involve removing part of the nail, the entire nail, or a section of nail tissue beneath the skin to help prevent the problem from returning. These procedures are typically done under local anesthesia and usually take around 10 minutes. Although there is a risk of infection, recurrence, or scarring, ingrown toenail surgery can be a reliable way to reduce pain and infection. If you have ingrown toenail complications, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options, possibly including surgery.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied of Palos Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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.

Foot pain is a common issue that can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. Sprains occur when ligaments are stretched or torn, usually from twisting injuries. Gout is a form of arthritis caused by uric acid buildup, leading to sudden, intense joint pain, often in the big toe. Blisters form from friction, creating fluid-filled sacs, while corns are hardened skin caused by pressure or rubbing. Blisters appear as raised bumps, and corns look like thick, rough patches of skin. Symptoms vary, but may include swelling, redness, sharp or throbbing pain, tenderness, and difficulty walking. Sprains may cause bruising and gout results in hot, swollen joints.  Podiatrists can offer treatments such as targeted exercises, anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotics, drainage of blisters, or corn removal. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule  an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and effective treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

The way your feet move and function plays a major role in how you walk, stand, and complete everyday tasks. Foot biomechanics refers to how the bones, muscles, and joints work together with each step. When this system is not working well, due to flat feet, high arches, or poor alignment, other areas of the body such as the knees, hips, or back, may be affected. Small imbalances can lead to pain, fatigue, or uneven wear on shoes. Over time, this may impact posture, stability, and the ability to move comfortably. Even simple activities like climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or standing for long periods of time can become harder when the foot is not functioning properly. Paying attention to how your feet move can help prevent discomfort and injury. If you are noticing soreness, poor balance, or unusual wear patterns on your shoes, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and guidance.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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 and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect joints throughout the body, and the feet are no exception. Many people with this condition experience pain, stiffness, or swelling in the toes, midfoot, or ankles. Over time, the structure of the foot may change, leading to deformities such as bunions, hammertoes, or a flattened arch. These changes can make walking painful and cause difficulty in finding comfortable footwear. The lining of the joints becomes inflamed, which can damage bone and cartilage if not treated. Supportive shoes, inserts, and exercises can help manage symptoms and reduce stress on affected areas. In more advanced cases, medical treatments or surgery may be considered to improve comfort and mobility. Paying close attention to early signs and adjusting daily routines can prevent the condition from worsening. If rheumatoid arthritis is causing discomfort or changes in your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for relief options.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Dr. John P. Beaupied of Palos Podiatry. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.

Selecting the right walking or running shoe begins with understanding your arch and gait type. People with flat feet often need stability shoes, while those with high arches may benefit from extra cushioning. A gait analysis helps determine how your foot strikes the ground, which affects shoe choice. Walking shoes usually have more cushion in the heel and less in the forefoot because the heel absorbs the most impact during walking. Running shoes distribute support differently due to varied stride patterns. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure and gait, then recommend the best footwear or custom inserts. For optimal comfort and injury prevention, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to ensure your shoes meet your unique foot needs.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. John P. Beaupied from Palos Podiatry. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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.