Athlete’s foot is a common fungal skin infection that affects the feet, often causing itching, peeling, cracking, redness, or burning between the toes or along the soles. Because other skin conditions can look similar, proper evaluation is important before treatment begins. A podiatrist will examine the appearance, location, and severity of the skin changes while asking about symptoms, duration, footwear habits, moisture exposure, and previous episodes. In some cases, a small skin sample may be collected to help confirm whether fungus is present, and rule out other causes such as eczema or psoriasis. Evaluation also includes checking for skin breakdown, secondary infection, or nail involvement, which can complicate treatment. Early diagnosis can help prevent worsening discomfort and spread to other areas. If you have persistent foot itching, scaling, or painful skin changes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an assessment and appropriate treatment. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with One of our podiatrists from Global Podiatry. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Foot pain in children can affect daily play, sports, and overall comfort. It often appears as limping, complaints of soreness, or reluctance to stay active. Causes can include sports-related strain, overuse, and simple missteps that place stress on growing bones and soft tissues. In some cases, improper footwear or rapid growth can also contribute to discomfort. While mild pain may seem temporary, ongoing symptoms should be evaluated carefully. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, identify any imbalances, and determine if conditions like flat feet or growth plate irritation are present. Treatment may include custom support, activity guidance, or further imaging tests. If your child has foot pain for any reason, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, 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.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

Metatarsalgia  is pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, often where the metatarsal bones are located. It typically develops when there is excessive pressure on the front of the foot while walking, running, or standing. Common causes include high-impact activities, improper footwear, foot deformities, or abnormal weight distribution. People with metatarsalgia may feel a sharp, aching, or burning sensation in the ball of the foot that worsens with activity and improves with rest. It can also feel like walking on a pebble or having a bruised area under the foot. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, identify pressure points, and provide treatment such as orthotic support or gait correction to reduce pain. If you have ongoing forefoot discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with One of our podiatrists from Global Podiatry. Our practitioners 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 Buffalo Grove, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A Lisfranc fracture is a break or injury to the bones and joints in the middle of the foot that support the arch and connect the forefoot to the rest of the foot. Because the symptoms can resemble a sprain, this injury is often overlooked. Pain in the mid-foot, swelling, and difficulty bearing weight are common signs. Bruising on the bottom of the foot may be present. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam and order imaging tests, such as X-rays or advanced scans, to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection is important to prevent long-term joint damage and loss of stability. Treatment depends on the severity and may include immobilization, supportive devices, or surgery to restore proper alignment. Care focuses on protecting the arch and guiding recovery. If you have symptoms of a Lisfranc fracture, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. 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.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.