A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe due to joint misalignment. Over time, the big toe shifts toward the smaller toes, which causes the joint to protrude outward. This change can lead to discomfort and difficulty with daily activities. While many bunions can be managed with conservative care, some cases progress and require surgical treatment. Understanding when this type of foot surgery is needed helps individuals make informed decisions about their foot health.

Common symptoms of bunions include pain, swelling, redness, and limited movement of the big toe joint. The area may become tender, especially while wearing tight or narrow shoes. Risk factors include inherited foot structure, improper footwear, and conditions that affect joint alignment. High-heeled or narrow shoes can increase pressure on the forefoot, which may worsen the deformity over time. Additional causes include flat feet, arthritis, and repeated stress on the foot.

Bunion surgery may be recommended when symptoms interfere with daily life and do not improve with non-surgical treatments. Several types of procedures are used depending on the severity of the condition. These may include removal of part of the metatarsal head, removal of excess bone, and realignment of soft tissues around the joint. In some cases, the podiatric surgeon may reposition bones to restore proper alignment. Each surgical approach is designed to reduce pain, correct deformity, and improve function.

Deciding on bunion surgery involves evaluating symptoms, lifestyle needs, and overall foot health. Early treatment may prevent progression, but advanced cases may require surgical correction for long-term relief. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options can support better outcomes. If you are considering bunion surgery for lasting relief, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact the podiatrists of Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar and can impact many areas of health, including the feet. Diabetic foot refers to foot problems that develop as a result of diabetes-related changes in the body. Persistently high blood sugar levels can contribute to nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy and reduced circulation. These complications make it harder for the feet to heal and increase the risk of infections, wounds, and other serious concerns. Proper diabetic foot care is essential for protecting foot health and preventing complications.

Symptoms of diabetic foot problems can vary depending on the severity of nerve and circulation changes. Common symptoms include numbness, tingling, and burning sensations. A reduced ability to feel pain or temperature changes also occurs. Some individuals may develop dry skin, sores, swelling, or slow-healing wounds. Because nerve damage can reduce sensation, small cuts or blisters may go unnoticed and become more serious. Fungal foot infections, including athlete’s foot and toenail fungus, may also occur more easily due to changes in immune function and circulation.

Risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing diabetic foot complications include poor blood sugar control, long-term diabetes, and smoking. Obesity and reduced circulation also can contribute to increased foot problems. Wearing improper footwear, failing to inspect the feet regularly, and having a history of foot ulcers raise the risk. Diabetes can affect the body’s ability to fight infection and repair damaged tissue, making early attention to foot concerns especially important.

Protecting the feet in diabetic patients requires regular foot examinations, proper hygiene, and wearing supportive footwear. Ongoing management of blood sugar levels is also essential. A podiatrist can help monitor foot health, identify early warning signs, and provide treatment for infections, wounds, and other conditions related to diabetes. If diabetes is causing foot pain, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage 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 the podiatrists from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors 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.

Choosing the right running shoe is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Running places repeated impact force on the feet, ankles, and lower limbs, making proper support a key factor in foot health. An important consideration is how much your foot pronates, or rolls inward, during each step. Neutral pronation allows for balanced movement, while excessive inward rolling or limited motion can lead to uneven pressure. Understanding your gait and foot structure helps guide the selection of shoes that match your needs.

Symptoms of wearing the wrong running shoes often develop gradually. Common signs include foot pain, arch discomfort, and ankle instability. Excessive pronation can lead to strain along the inner foot and ankle, while insufficient pronation may increase pressure on the outer edge. These imbalances affect how impact force is absorbed, which can contribute to overuse injuries such as plantar fasciitis or stress fractures. Paying attention to these symptoms can prevent long term damage.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of injury when wearing improper footwear. Foot structure, including flat feet or high arches, plays a major role in how the foot handles movement and pressure. Wearing shoes that do not match your pronation type can worsen alignment issues. The main cause of discomfort is poor shock absorption and lack of support, which forces the body to compensate during movement. This can lead to a chain reaction of strain throughout the lower body.

Choosing the right running shoe involves evaluating fit, cushioning, and support. Shoes should match your foot shape and provide stability based on your level of pronation. Replacing worn shoes regularly and rotating pairs can also help reduce impact stress. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and additional guidance on choosing shoes for your running style. 

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact the podiatrists from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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.

Pregnancy brings many changes that can affect the feet and ankles. As body weight increases, the feet carry more pressure with every step. Hormonal changes also cause ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue connecting bones, to become more flexible. This can allow the arches to lower and the feet to become slightly longer or wider. Many women notice foot pain, swelling, and increased fatigue while walking. Balance can also change as the body's center of gravity shifts forward. These changes sometimes continue after pregnancy, making early attention important. A podiatrist can evaluate these changes, explain what is happening, and recommend treatment that improves comfort. Research has shown that pregnancy-related changes in foot structure can affect movement and place extra stress on the feet.

Several foot problems can develop during pregnancy because of these physical changes. Heel pain, arch pain, and flat feet can become more noticeable as pressure on the feet increases. Swelling surrounding the ankles and feet can also make shoes feel tighter and less comfortable. Shoes that lack proper support can increase strain on the feet and make symptoms worse. A podiatrist examines foot alignment, walking patterns, and areas of increased pressure to identify the source of discomfort. This detailed evaluation helps guide treatment that supports healthier foot function and improves stability throughout pregnancy.

A podiatrist creates a treatment plan based on each patient's symptoms and foot structure. Treatment includes custom orthotics, wearing supportive shoes, and regular monitoring of foot health. Orthotics help improve alignment and reduce stress on painful areas. Supportive shoes improve stability and comfort while walking. Early treatment can reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and help prevent long-lasting foot problems after pregnancy. Regular podiatry visits also allow changes in the feet to be monitored as pregnancy progresses. If you have symptoms of pregnancy-related foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and management tips. 

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with the podiatrists from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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.