A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the joint to stick out as the top of the toe leans inward. This condition develops gradually due to pressure and the misalignment of the foot bones. Causes include genetics, wearing tight or narrow shoes, and certain foot types. Risk factors include arthritis, flat feet, and occupations that require long hours of standing. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose bunions and offer treatment options, such as custom orthotics, footwear recommendations, or surgery, if needed. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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 care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most often affecting the big toe. This condition results from the body producing too much uric acid or not removing it effectively. Common causes of gout include a diet high in purines, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. Risk factors include obesity, age, family history, and excessive alcohol consumption. Symptoms often involve sudden, intense joint pain, redness, swelling, and warmth. A podiatrist can help manage gout by diagnosing the condition, offering pain relief strategies, and guiding long-term foot care. If you experience joint pain in the foot, it is suggested that you seek podiatric advice to relieve discomfort and prevent future flare-ups.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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 care needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, most often affecting the big toe. This condition results from the body producing too much uric acid or not removing it effectively. Common causes of gout include a diet high in purines, certain medications, and underlying health conditions. Risk factors include obesity, age, family history, and excessive alcohol consumption. Symptoms often involve sudden, intense joint pain, redness, swelling, and warmth. A podiatrist can help manage gout by diagnosing the condition, offering pain relief strategies, and guiding long-term foot care. If you experience joint pain in the foot, it is suggested that you seek podiatric advice to relieve discomfort and prevent future flare-ups.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

Peroneal tendinopathy is a condition involving irritation or degeneration of the peroneal tendons, which run along the outer side of the ankle and foot. These tendons help stabilize the foot and support balance during walking or running. Causes include overuse, improper footwear, high-impact activities, or ankle instability. Symptoms include aching or sharp pain along the outer ankle, swelling, weakness, or a feeling of instability. Without treatment, the condition may worsen and limit mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate the problem through physical examination and imaging, then provide care with rest plans, bracing, or custom orthotics. If you experience persistent outer ankle pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a tailored treatment plan and long-term relief.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Warren Levy, DPM from Armitage Podiatry Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.