Morton's neuroma affects the nerves of the forefoot, leading to pain and discomfort in the area between the toes. It develops when the tissue surrounding a nerve thickens due to repeated pressure or irritation. This thickened tissue can compress the nerve, causing symptoms that interfere with normal walking and daily activities. The condition most often occurs between the third and fourth toes, where pressure is commonly concentrated.

Symptoms include a sharp or burning pain in the ball of the foot, often accompanied by tingling or numbness in the toes. Some individuals report a sensation of fullness or the feeling of standing on a small object. Pain may increase with activity or when wearing tight or restrictive footwear. In many cases, symptoms improve temporarily when shoes are removed or when the foot is rested.

Risk factors include footwear choices, activity level, and foot structure. Shoes with a narrow toe box or elevated heel height can compress the toes and increase pressure on the nerve. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, may also contribute to irritation. Individuals with biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or high arches, may place uneven stress on the forefoot, increasing the likelihood of developing this condition.

The cause of Morton's neuroma is linked to ongoing nerve compression and inflammation. Addressing contributing factors early can help relieve discomfort and prevent worsening symptoms. Wearing supportive footwear, proper cushioning, and professional care can improve foot function and reduce pain. If you have symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you seek evaluation from a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and effective relief and treatment solutions.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact the podiatrists of Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors 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 Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It usually begins between the toes, where warmth and moisture create an ideal environment for fungus to grow. One of the first symptoms is itching between the toes. Other symptoms are peeling skin, scaling, or small cracks in the affected area. The skin may also appear red and irritated, becoming tender and uncomfortable when wearing shoes. People who wear closed-toe shoes, have sweaty feet, or walk barefoot in public locker rooms and pool areas have a greater risk of developing athlete’s foot.

As the athlete’s foot infection progresses, the fungus can spread to the soles of the feet and cause dry, flaky skin. Some people develop a burning sensation or stinging discomfort. Others notice pale, wrinkled skin after the feet have been exposed to moisture. Small blisters can also form, causing further irritation. In more advanced cases, the skin may crack deeply enough to become painful when walking. Open sores can develop in severe infections. These sores increase the risk of additional skin problems and can make daily activities more difficult.

A podiatrist can recognize athlete’s foot by examining the skin and identifying the pattern of the infection. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include prescription antifungal medication to eliminate the fungus. When the infection has spread to the toenails, treatment can be more extensive because nail fungus is harder to clear. Keeping the feet clean and dry also helps reduce the chance of future infections. Prompt care can relieve discomfort and help prevent the infection from spreading. If you believe you may have an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and diagnosis.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with the podiatrists from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Foot pain can affect people of all ages and activity levels. It may appear as aching, sharp discomfort, or a burning sensation in different parts of the foot. This pain often develops from repeated stress, poor foot mechanics, or improper footwear. Underlying conditions, such as flat feet or high arches, may also contribute. Risk factors include standing for long periods, carrying excess weight, and playing certain sports. Strain on soft tissues can lead to a number of conditions. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the heel tissue. Fat pad atrophy occurs when the natural cushioning on the heels thins. Morton’s neuroma develops from a thickening of nerve tissue, commonly between the third and fourth toes. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, order X-rays and digital imaging, and create targeted treatment plans to relieve pain and restore function. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with the podiatrists from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Achilles tendinopathy is a condition affecting the strong tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel. Early changes often involve irritation from sudden increases in activity or repeated strain, causing pain, stiffness, and tenderness, especially after movement. If stress continues, the tendon may begin to lose its normal structure, making healing less efficient and symptoms more persistent. Over time, long-standing damage can develop, with thickening, weakness, and ongoing discomfort that may limit walking, exercise, or daily activity. At this stage, the tendon is more vulnerable to serious injury. Because symptoms can worsen gradually, many people delay treatment until the condition becomes harder to manage. A podiatrist can evaluate tendon function, identify contributing movement patterns, and recommend treatment based on how advanced the condition has become. If you have recurring pain or stiffness near the back of the heel, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact the podiatrists of Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctors 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.