While running is a popular fitness exercise, it places repeated stress on the feet and ankles that can lead to pain. Common reasons for running pain include overuse, weak or tight muscles, and wearing shoes that no longer provide enough support. Previous injuries, such as ankle sprains, can also cause lasting weakness and make new injuries more likely. Running pain also may develop from Achilles tendon problems, plantar fasciitis, or stress fractures. Some runners feel pain in the heel, while others notice it in the arch, ankle, or along the side of the foot. A podiatrist can examine the foot and ankle to find the source of the pain. Treatment includes custom orthotics, bracing, and guidance on better running shoes. Surgery may be needed if the injury is severe. If you have foot or ankle pain while running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. 

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact One of our podiatrists of Global Podiatry. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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

Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by irritation and thickening of a nerve that runs between the toes, most often between the third and fourth toes. The problem develops when repeated pressure or stress compresses the nerve as it passes between the metatarsal bones. Patients commonly describe a burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot that may radiate into the toes. Some people feel tingling, numbness, or the sensation of stepping on a small pebble inside the shoe. Symptoms may worsen when wearing tight shoes or high heels and often improve when the shoe is removed. Over time the discomfort can become more frequent during walking or standing. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma through a physical examination and by evaluating where the pain occurs when pressure is applied. Treatment may include shoe modifications, metatarsal padding, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises to reduce pressure on the nerve. If you think you may have Morton’s neuroma, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact One of our podiatrists of Global Podiatry. Our practitioners will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

Fungal toenail infections develop when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail, causing thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. These infections often return because fungi thrive in warm, moist environments like sweaty shoes and public spaces. Reinfection can also happen if treatment is stopped too soon or shoes are not properly disinfected. Beyond over-the-counter and prescription medications, a podiatrist can provide advanced care, including professional nail debridement to reduce thickness, stronger topical treatments, oral antifungal therapy, and, in some cases, laser treatment to target the infection. Regular monitoring helps ensure the infection is fully cleared. Preventive steps like keeping feet dry, wearing breathable shoes, and avoiding barefoot exposure are essential. If the infection continues or worsens, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for comprehensive treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact One of our podiatrists of Global Podiatry. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to irritation and inflammation. This condition often affects the big toe and can become painful, if left untreated. Common causes of ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, injury, and inherited nail shape. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, tenderness, drainage, and infection. Risk factors include diabetes, poor circulation, and excessive sweating. When conservative care does not relieve symptoms, a minor in-office procedure may be necessary to remove the affected portion of the nail and prevent recurrence. A podiatrist can safely perform the procedure and provide guidance for proper healing. If your ingrown toenail has become uncomfortable or infected, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact One of our podiatrists of Global Podiatry. Our practitioners 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 Buffalo Grove, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.