March 2026

Athlete's foot is affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes and along the soles. This fungal infection develops from contact with fungi that grow in warm and moist environments. For that reason, locker rooms, shared showers, and tight footwear are common sources of exposure. Symptoms include sore flaky patches on the feet, redness, itching, burning sensations, and peeling skin. The infection may spread to the toenails or other areas of the foot, if left untreated. Risk factors include excessive sweating, wearing damp socks, and going barefoot in public athletic facilities. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection and provide targeted treatment to restore healthy skin. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

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 Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor 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 Olympia Fields, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot deformities occur when the bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments that support the foot move out of their normal position. The foot is built to be strong and flexible so it can support body weight and allow smooth walking. When its structure changes, the shape of the foot and the way a person walks may also change. Several types of foot deformities can develop. A splayfoot occurs when the bones in the front of the foot spread apart, making the forefoot wider. Flat feet develop when the arch, the curved area under the foot that helps absorb shock, becomes lowered. High-arched feet have an arch that is higher than normal and place more pressure on the heel and ball of the foot. Some deformities, such as clubfoot, are present at birth. Others develop over time due to injury, arthritis, tight shoes, or repeated strain on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and recommend treatment to improve comfort and walking ability. If you have a foot deformity, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Sever’s disease, which can cause heel pain in active children and adolescents, is known medically as calcaneal apophysitis. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repeated stress during periods of rapid growth. This condition most often affects children who participate in running or jumping sports. Risk factors include tight calf muscles, increased physical activity, wearing improper footwear, and growth spurts. Symptoms commonly include heel pain, tenderness, limping, and discomfort during sports or walking. A podiatrist can evaluate foot mechanics, provide supportive care, recommend stretching and orthotic support, and guide activity modifications to reduce stress on the heel. Early care helps relieve pain and prevent worsening symptoms. If your active child has persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore effective relief solutions. 

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Diabetes can have a significant impact on blood flow to the legs and feet. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels damage blood vessels, causing them to narrow and stiffen. This reduces circulation to the lower extremities, and limits the delivery of oxygen and nutrients needed for healthy tissue. Poor blood flow slows wound healing and makes the feet more vulnerable to ulcers and infection, even from minor injuries. People may notice cold feet, skin color changes, hair loss on the legs, or pain when walking that improves with rest. Because circulation problems often develop gradually, they may go unnoticed until complications appear. Ongoing circulation changes increase the risk of serious outcomes that affect mobility and independence. Routine foot checks and early attention to symptoms are important. If you have diabetes and notice changes in your feet, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate care.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Eveleigh Williams, DPM of Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Cankles describe a condition in which the ankle and lower leg appear to blend without a visible curve or separation. They often develop when swelling or fat accumulation occurs due to fluid retention, circulation issues, weight changes, or long periods of standing or sitting. Symptoms include a heavy, tight feeling, aching skin that feels stretched, and shoes that feel suddenly snug. The ankle bones may be difficult to see, and the lower leg can look uniformly thick. A podiatrist begins with a detailed exam and medical history to determine contributing factors, such as vascular changes, inflammation, or foot mechanics. Diagnostic imaging and circulation testing may be involved. Treatment can include compression guidance, custom orthotics, lifestyle changes, and coordination with other providers when needed. Early attention may reduce progression and improve comfort during daily activities. If you think you have cankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Eveleigh Williams, DPM from Sole 2 Sole, PC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Olympia Fields, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.