Toe cramps are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can cause sharp pain and temporary stiffness. These cramps may last a few seconds or several minutes and often occur during rest or activity. Common causes include tight or weak foot muscles, exposure to cold temperatures, dehydration, older age, improper footwear, and underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or circulation issues. These factors can lead to muscle fatigue, poor blood flow, or nerve irritation. A podiatrist can help identify the root cause through a detailed examination. Treatment options include stretching exercises, footwear changes, hydration advice, and custom orthotics. If you have frequent toe cramps, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to relieve discomfort and improve foot function with expert care.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Nadia Sadeghi, DPM of Lincoln Park Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A chance of limb loss is a serious concern for people with diabetes, as poor blood flow and nerve damage in the feet can cause even minor injuries to become dangerous. When a person cannot feel a cut or sore due to loss of sensation, it may go unnoticed until it becomes infected. Reduced circulation also means these wounds may not heal properly, which increases the risk of tissue death, and, in severe cases, a surgical remedy. A podiatrist plays a key role in preventing loss of limb by performing regular foot exams, monitoring for signs of infection, and treating wounds early. This may involve cleaning the area, removing dead tissue, or surgery to improve blood flow in the legs or feet. Antibiotic treatment may also be required. Identifying problems like swelling, skin color changes, or non-healing ulcers early can help stop the spread of infection. If you are at risk of diabetic limb loss, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and ongoing treatment.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Nadia Sadeghi, DPM from Lincoln Park Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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 a toenail grows into the skin instead of over it, most often affecting the big toe. This can cause pain, swelling, and redness surrounding the toenail, and may lead to infection, if not treated. Common causes of ingrown toenails include trimming the nails too short or rounding their edges, wearing shoes that put pressure on the toes, and injuring the toe. Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape of their nails, or repeated stress from activities like running or kicking. Risk factors also include poor circulation, especially in people with diabetes, which can make healing more difficult and increase the risk of infection. When pain, swelling, or drainage occur, a podiatrist may recommend lifting the nail, removing part of the nail, or treating an infection. If you have a painful or infected ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Nadia Sadeghi, DPM of Lincoln Park Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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.

Older adults with foot pain may face more than just daily discomfort. They may also be at greater risk of falling. Research shows that those with ongoing or intense foot pain are more likely to experience repeated falls. The structure of the foot also matters. A flat foot shape, known as planus posture, may affect balance and stability, further raising the risk. These two factors often work together, making it harder for the body to respond quickly during movement. Wearing proper footwear, doing targeted exercises, and getting podiatric care can help reduce the chance of falling. Addressing foot pain early and supporting healthy foot alignment can protect both mobility and safety. If foot problems are making it harder to stay steady, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Nadia Sadeghi, DPM from Lincoln Park Foot and Ankle Specialists. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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.