The health of your feet can often reflect what is happening elsewhere in the body. Certain medical conditions that affect multiple systems can also cause foot-related symptoms. Diabetes is one of the most well-known, often leading to nerve damage, circulation problems, and delayed healing. Autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint pain, swelling, and changes in foot structure. Kidney or liver disease may lead to fluid retention, causing swelling in the feet and ankles. Additionally, neurological disorders can affect muscle control and sensation, sometimes leading to imbalance or unusual wear on the feet. Even conditions like peripheral artery disease or thyroid dysfunction may contribute to discomfort or changes in the appearance of the feet. Paying attention to new or ongoing symptoms can help with early detection of a broader issue. If your feet are showing signs of an underlying condition, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist for further guidance and care.
When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Stephanie Oexeman, DPM from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable. Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.
Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.
Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.
Diabetes of the Feet
Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.
Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of 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 and ankle needs.
Wearing shoes that do not fit properly is a leading cause of foot pain as well as long-term complications. Tight or loose footwear can lead to corns, calluses, and even foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes. Over time, discomfort may limit mobility and discourage regular activity. Ill-fitting shoes can also worsen conditions like peripheral neuropathy by adding pressure and irritation to sensitive areas. A podiatrist can examine your foot shape, assess any damage, and recommend properly fitting shoes or custom orthotics to relieve pain and prevent further issues. If you have developed foot pain from wearing the wrong type of shoes, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and offer the right guidance for your specific needs.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Stephanie Oexeman, DPM from Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC. our doctor 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)
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.
Surgery is an option for rebuilding the arch of the foot when the structure has collapsed and causes ongoing pain or instability. People with flat feet often experience discomfort in the arch, heel, or ankle, along with poor foot alignment that can lead to difficulty in walking. Flatfoot surgery involves shifting bone position, repairing ligaments, or replacing damaged tendons to support the arch. These changes improve foot function, reduce pain, and help prevent complications. A podiatrist can determine the appropriate surgical method based on the severity of the condition and how much the arch has collapsed. The advantages of flatfoot surgery include better foot support, improved posture, and relief from pressure along the inner foot and ankle. However, recovery can be lengthy and may involve risks such as infection, swelling, or poor bone healing. A podiatrist provides the necessary evaluation and guidance throughout the process. If you have foot pain caused by flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if surgery is a treatment option.
Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.
Conditions & Problems:
Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.
Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.
Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.
Symptoms
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
Treatment
If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.
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.
Foot problems become increasingly common with age due to wear and tear, medical conditions, and footwear habits. Seniors often face bunions, which are painful bumps that form when the big toe shifts out of place, sometimes causing inflammation and discomfort. Corns and calluses develop from pressure and friction, especially when shoes do not fit properly. Thick, brittle, discolored, or ingrown toenails can also become problematic and may lead to pain or infection. Other issues from improper footwear in seniors include arthritis-related stiffness, plantar fasciitis and heel spurs causing arch or heel pain, and flat feet or high arches that alter foot alignment. Nerve-related conditions such as tarsal tunnel syndrome and Morton’s neuroma may also cause burning, tingling, or cramping sensations. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options.
Geriatrics and Podiatry When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.
It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.
Visiting Your Geriatrician As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities.
Taking Care of Elderly Feet Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.
Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.
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.
