An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments on the outside of the ankle are stretched or torn due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Symptoms include swollen painful tissue, bruising, and difficulty walking. Grade 1 sprains involve mild stretching of the ligament with slight tenderness. Grade 2 sprains include partial tearing with noticeable swelling and reduced movement. Grade 3 sprains involve a complete tear with significant instability and severe pain. A podiatrist can diagnose the severity, provide proper treatment, and create a targeted exercise plan to restore strength and stability. Prompt care reduces the risk of long term problems. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Every sport begins at ground level, with your feet. They support your body, absorb impact, and power every stride, jump, and pivot. Even small differences in foot structure, such as toe length or arch height, can influence how you move, balance, and perform. A longer big toe, for example, helps athletes push off with greater force in sprinting or skiing, while strong arches provide stability during side-to-side motions in tennis or basketball. Yet, the same mechanics that make feet powerful also make them vulnerable. Overuse, poor footwear, or uneven surfaces can lead to sprains, stress fractures, Achilles tendon injuries, or plantar fasciitis. Maintaining strength and flexibility in the feet and ankles helps prevent these issues. If you experience persistent pain or swelling in your feet or ankles from sports activity, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Warren Levy, DPM of Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Athlete’s foot is a frequent fungal infection that usually begins between the toes but can spread if left untreated. When the skin cracks or peels, bacteria can enter, leading to secondary infections that may cause redness, swelling, and pain. In severe cases, these infections can spread to the toenails, resulting in thickened, discolored nails that are difficult to treat. For people with diabetes or poor circulation, untreated athlete’s foot can cause serious complications, including ulcers or cellulitis, a deep skin infection that may require antibiotics. The condition can also spread to the hands or other areas of the body through scratching or contaminated surfaces. Keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks regularly, and using antifungal treatments early can help prevent these complications. If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Toenail fungus often begins quietly, with nails that lose their shine and become thick, brittle, or yellowed. As the infection progresses, the nail may separate from the bed, crumble, or develop an uneven surface that makes shoes uncomfortable. If ignored, the infection can damage the nail completely and spread to nearby nails or skin. In some cases, the skin beside the nail becomes sore, swollen, or filled with fluid due to a bacterial infection. Because these changes rarely improve without medical attention, prompt evaluation is important. A podiatrist can determine the cause, remove infected tissue, and prescribe targeted antifungal or antibacterial treatments to restore healthy growth. Addressing nail problems early prevents more serious complications. If your toenails look discolored, thickened, or painful, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and professional care.

For more information about treatment, contact Warren Levy, DPM of Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.