Blisters develop when repeated friction or pressure causes the upper layers of the skin to separate. The space between the layers fills with fluid, creating a small pocket that protects the damaged skin underneath. Blisters frequently appear on the heels, toes, or the balls of the feet. Wearing shoes that are too tight or shoes that lack proper support can increase friction and lead to blister formation. Long periods of activity, moisture, and foot deformities also can increase the risk. Symptoms include a raised area filled with clear fluid, tenderness, and pain while walking. Some blisters can break open, leaving the skin exposed and increasing the chance of infection. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation should receive prompt evaluation because even a small blister can become a serious foot problem.

A podiatrist performs a thorough examination to determine the cause of the blister and whether signs of infection are present. The evaluation includes checking the size and location of the blister, the condition of the surrounding skin, and the overall health of the foot. The podiatrist also looks for foot conditions, like bunions or hammertoes, that increase pressure and friction. Identifying the underlying cause is important because blisters are likely to return when the source of the problem is not corrected. Patients with repeated blisters can benefit from a complete foot evaluation to improve comfort and reduce future injuries.

Treatment focuses on protecting the skin while reducing pressure on the affected area. A podiatrist can safely drain a large or painful blister when necessary while preserving the healthy skin that covers it. Care also includes custom orthotics that improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly. The podiatrist can recommend shoes that fit properly and provide good support to reduce friction while walking. Patients with infected blisters or deeper skin injuries receive prompt treatment to protect foot health and prevent complications. If you have symptoms of blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood of Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansing, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Pain in the ball of the foot can make simple activities difficult, especially when standing or walking. The ball of the foot is the padded area between the arch and the toes that helps support body weight with every step. When this area becomes irritated or inflamed, even routine movement can become painful. Symptoms can range from a dull ache to a sharp or burning sensation. Some patients also notice tingling, numbness, or the feeling that something is stuck inside a shoe. These symptoms can begin suddenly after an injury or develop gradually from repeated pressure on the front of the foot. 

Several conditions can cause pain in the ball of the foot. Bunions, hammertoes, and high arches can affect how body weight is distributed across the foot. Activities that involve frequent running or jumping also increase pressure on the front of the foot. Footwear choices can make the problem worse. High-heels, shoes that are too tight or too loose, or shoes that lack proper support are common culprits. Medical conditions like arthritis, gout, and nerve irritation can also lead to pain in this area. A podiatrist begins with a thorough examination of the foot and discusses your symptoms and daily activities. Diagnostic testing includes X-rays or advanced imaging to identify injuries or rule out other conditions.

Treatment focuses on correcting the source of the pain and restoring normal foot function. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to improve weight distribution, treat painful calluses, or address foot deformities that put pressure on the forefoot. When structural damage or severe deformities are responsible for ongoing pain, surgery can provide lasting relief. Prompt treatment also helps reduce the risk of developing pain in the ankles, knees, hips, or lower back because of an altered walking pattern. If you have pain in the ball of your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. 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)
• 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 Lansing, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenail fungus can change the look and feel of the nail over time. It happens when tiny organisms grow in or under the toenail, often in warm, damp areas. The nail may become thick, yellow, brittle, or lifted from the nail bed. Some people also notice pain when pressure is placed on the toe while walking. Although toenail fungus may not seem urgent at first, it can be hard to manage once it becomes established. It may also spread to other nails or cause more discomfort as the nail changes shape. Professional podiatry care can help identify the problem early and reduce the chance of ongoing nail damage while supporting better foot health.

A podiatrist can examine the affected toenail and determine whether fungus is truly the cause. This matters because nail injuries, aging, psoriasis, and other problems can look similar to a fungal nail infection. In some cases, a small nail sample may be tested to confirm the diagnosis. Once the cause is clear, the podiatrist can recommend a treatment plan based on the severity of the infection and the patient’s overall foot health. Treatment may include prescription topical medication, oral medication, or careful trimming of thickened nail tissue. People with diabetes, poor circulation, or immune-system concerns should be especially cautious, because nail problems can lead to more serious foot issues.

Early evaluation is important because toenail fungus treatment often takes time and requires consistent follow-up. A podiatrist can monitor nail growth, check for changes, and adjust care when needed. Professional treatment may also improve comfort in shoes and support healthier-looking toenails. Seeking expert care helps avoid delays caused by guessing what is wrong with the nail. If you have thick, discolored, painful, or lifting toenails, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood of Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

A broken foot occurs when one or more of the bones in the foot fracture. Because the foot contains many small bones that work together to support body weight and movement, a fracture can significantly affect mobility. A broken foot may result from a fall, sports injury, motor vehicle accident, or repetitive stress placed on the bones over time. Common broken foot symptoms include foot pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty walking. Some people may also notice that the foot appears misshapen or that putting weight on it becomes extremely painful. Since foot fractures can vary in severity, obtaining an accurate diagnosis is important for determining the most effective treatment.

Not all broken foot injuries are the same. Some fractures involve a small crack in the bone, while others may cause the bone to shift out of position. In certain cases, a broken foot can be mistaken for a severe sprain because the symptoms are similar. However, untreated foot fractures may lead to ongoing pain, improper healing, reduced mobility, or long-term foot problems. Imaging studies such as X-rays are often used to confirm the diagnosis and identify the location of the fracture. Early evaluation is important because prompt treatment can help support proper healing and reduce the risk of complications.

A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist who is trained to diagnose and treat broken foot injuries. During an evaluation, a podiatrist will examine the foot, review symptoms, and assess imaging results to develop an appropriate treatment plan. Depending on the type and severity of the fracture, treatment may involve immobilization, protective devices, fracture management, or surgical care when necessary. Follow-up visits are often important to monitor healing and restore foot function. Seeking timely podiatric care can help improve recovery and reduce the likelihood of future complications. If you are experiencing foot pain, swelling, bruising, or difficulty walking after an injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Lansing, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.