Ankle arthritis can make walking and daily activities difficult due to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joint. While surgery is an option in some cases, many people find relief through non-surgical treatments. These methods aim to reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and slow the progression of arthritis. Common approaches include wearing supportive shoes or custom orthotics to ease pressure on the joint, using braces to add stability, and doing gentle exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles. Targeted exercises may also help improve flexibility and balance. Anti-inflammatory medications, topical treatments, or corticosteroid injections can be used to manage pain and swelling. Maintaining a healthy weight is another important step, as it reduces stress on the ankle. With the right combination of care, many people are able to stay active and avoid surgery. If ankle pain is interfering with your life, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist to explore your treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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.

Foot wounds that do not heal in individuals with diabetes are a serious concern. They often arise from poor circulation, nerve damage, or infection. Healing is further delayed when blood sugar is poorly controlled, footwear is ill-fitting, or daily care is inconsistent. Locally, excess pressure, bacterial overgrowth, or dryness at the wound site may slow recovery, as well. Management begins with addressing underlying conditions such as vascular disease, smoking, and high glucose levels. At the same time, careful cleaning, offloading pressure, and infection control are essential. Advanced wound dressings provide a supportive environment by keeping the area moist, reducing bacterial load, and encouraging tissue repair. Options include hydrocolloids that create a moist seal protecting the wound, and alginates that absorb heavy drainage and help control moisture levels. Foams that cushion the area while keeping the wound insulated and protected, and antimicrobial layers that reduce bacteria and lower the risk of infection, can be tailored to the specific wound. If you have diabetes, and have developed a persistent foot ulcer, it is suggested that you seek evaluation by a podiatrist for appropriate care and management for this serious condition. 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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.

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to pain, swelling, and redness along the toe. It may feel tender to the touch, especially when wearing shoes, and in some cases can become infected, causing pus or increased warmth in the area. Common causes include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, toe injuries, or genetic predisposition. Symptoms typically begin with mild discomfort and can progress to severe pain, if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a physical examination and assess whether there is any infection or underlying issue. Treatment options include soaking, lifting the nail, partial nail removal, or in chronic cases, removing part of the nail root. Proper nail care education and footwear recommendations can also help prevent future occurrences. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist at the first sign of discomfort to avoid complications and receive effective, lasting relief.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM of Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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 care needs.

The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the muscles in your calf to your heel. Injuries to this tissue can be common, especially among athletes. The typical symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury can include pain down the back of your leg near your heel, pain that worsens with activity, stiffness or soreness in the Achilles tendon upon waking, pain in the tendon the day after exercising, swelling that worsens with activity, thickening of the tendon, bone spurs on the heel bone, and difficulty flexing the affected foot. If you are injured and hear a popping sound, followed by a sudden, sharp pain, this could be indicative of an Achilles tendon rupture. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM of Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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.