An ankle sprain is one of the most common sports and activity-related injuries. It happens when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear after the foot twists or rolls. Most sprains heal with rest and proper care, but some people develop ongoing nerve-related pain during recovery. This type of discomfort is called neuropathic pain. It may feel like burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp, electric-like sensations around the ankle or foot. The pain may continue even after swelling improves and normal movement returns. Nerve irritation can occur when nearby tissues remain inflamed or when swelling places pressure on small nerves around the ankle joint. Early evaluation can help identify the cause and guide treatment. Targeted exercises, supportive bracing, and other medical treatments may be helpful. If nerve-like pain develops after an ankle sprain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact One of our podiatrists from Global Podiatry. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Neuropathy is a nerve-related condition defined as damage or dysfunction of the peripheral nerves that transmit signals between the brain, spinal cord, and the rest of the body. When neuropathy affects the feet, it can alter normal sensation and movement, which may increase the risk of unnoticed injuries. One of the most common causes is diabetes, which may gradually damage nerves through long-term changes in blood glucose levels. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, burning sensations, pain, and muscle weakness in the feet or lower legs. Risk factors may involve chronic health conditions, poor circulation, and prolonged nerve irritation. A podiatrist can evaluate nerve-related symptoms, monitor foot health, and recommend protective care. If foot numbness or burning sensations develop, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

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 Global Podiatry. Our practitioners 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 Buffalo Grove and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Zumba dancing is an energetic activity that helps strengthen the bones of the feet through repetitive weight-bearing movement. This type of exercise supports the maintenance of bone density, which is essential for preventing weakness and injury. The dynamic steps in Zumba improve balance and coordination while also enhancing muscle strength in the feet and ankles. Increased joint mobility is another benefit, allowing for better flexibility and reduced stiffness during daily activities. Regular participation can contribute to overall foot health and stability. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, recommend supportive footwear, and address any discomfort that may arise from this activity. If you have developed foot pain from Zumba dancing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle injuries, and guide you on staying active while protecting your feet.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact One of our podiatrists from Global Podiatry. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our practitioners to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This condition most often affects the big toe and can cause significant discomfort. The area may appear red, swollen, and tender, and the skin along the nail edge may feel painful when touched or when pressure is applied from shoes. As the condition worsens, the area can become warm, inflamed, or even develop drainage if infection begins. Common causes include trimming the nails too short, rounding the corners of the nail, tight footwear, injury to the toe, or natural nail shape. A podiatrist can evaluate the toe and determine the best treatment based on the severity of the condition. Early care may include careful nail trimming, reducing pressure on the toe, and protecting the irritated skin. If the problem continues or the nail becomes infected, a small procedure may be performed to remove the ingrown portion of the nail and prevent it from returning. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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