When a Nerve Thickens Between the Toes

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.

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Fungal Toenail Infections and Why They Keep Coming Back

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.

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Ingrown Toenail Causes and Minor Surgery for Relief

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.

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When an Ankle Sprain Leads to Nerve Pain

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 office located in Buffalo Grove, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Neuropathy and Its Impact on Foot Health

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 office located in Buffalo Grove, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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