- Warts
- Arthritis
- Plantar FasciitisWhat you are experiencing is likely plantar fasciitis. It is an inflammation of the band of fibers that run from your heel to toes. While you are sleeping the band begins to repair itself in a relaxed position. First thing in the morning, when you put pressure on the foot, the newly repaired fiber stretches and causes pain.
- Medical Weight LossFamily Foot & Ankle Specialists also care about your overall long-term health. We will help you with supportive means of caring for your body, such as, prevention, necessary durable medical equipment, and exercise including diet and weight loss.
- X-Rays
- Ankle Surgery
- BunionsLiving with bunions is a pain! Over time, bursitis or arthritis may set in and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain. Let us help you to decide what the best treatment plan is for you. Learn more...
- Hammertoe SurgeryThe primary causes of hammertoe include improperly fitting shoes and muscle imbalance. Treatment for the condition typically involves wearing shoes with soft, roomy toe boxes and toe exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles. Commercially available straps, cushions, or nonmedicated corn pads may also relieve symptoms. In severe cases, hammertoe surgery may be recommended to correct the deformity.
- CornsCorns and calluses are protective layers of compacted, dead skin cells. They are caused by repeated friction from skin rubbing against bony areas or against an irregularity in a shoe. Corns ordinarily form on the toes and calluses on the soles of the feet. The friction and pressure can burn or otherwise be painful and may be relieved by moleskin or padding on the affected areas.
- UlcerThe shape of your foot molds the cast. It lets your ulcer heal by distributing weight and relieving pressure. If you have Charcot foot, the cast controls your foot’s movement and supports its contours if you don’t put any weight on it. To use a total contact cast, you need good blood flow in your foot. The cast is changed every week or two until your foot heals. A custom-walking boot is another way to treat your Charcot foot. It supports the foot until all the swelling goes down, which can take as long as a year. You should keep from putting your weight on the Charcot foot. Surgery is considered if your deformity is too severe for a brace or shoe.
- CallusesCheck out this festive edition of our newsletter for fun gift ideas and tips on creating easy holiday party favors. You’ll also learn how to avoid calluses and soothe feet with DIY soak recipes. In addition, find out what to expect with Raynaud’s disease and out-toeing in children. It’s all inside this issue...
- FungusIngrown nails are nails whose corners or sides dig painfully into the skin, often causing infection. They are frequently caused by improper nail trimming, but also by shoe pressure, injury, fungus infection, heredity, and poor foot structure.
- Sports MedicineDr. James Baird is committed to excellence in general podiatric medical care and reconstructive foot and ankle surgery. He partners with his patients to find the treatments that will serve them best. The doctor’s special interests include the treatment of pediatric conditions, sports injuries, and diabetic foot and ankle conditions.
- Physical TherapyPhysical therapy, including tilt-board exercises that focus on strengthening the muscles, restoring range of motion, and increasing your perception of joint position.
- Flatfoot Correction
- Heel Pain
- Ankle Sprain
- Orthotics and Prosthetic Therapy
- General Podiatry
- Ankle Instability
- Ankle SprainChronic lateral ankle pain is recurring or chronic pain on the outside part of the ankle that often develops after an injury such as a sprained ankle.
- Bunions ProblemsMany people with bunions suffer from discomfort and pain from the constant irritation, rubbing, and friction of the enlargement against shoes. The skin over the toe becomes red and tender. Because this joint flexes with every step, the bigger the bunion gets, the more it hurts to walk. Over time without treatment, complications (including bursitis or arthritis) may set in. The skin on the bottom of the foot may become thicker, and everyday walking may become difficult—all contributing to chronic pain.
- Calluses
- Diabetic Foot Care
- Flat Feet
- HammertoesDo not wear flip flops when walking long distances or playing sports. They will promote the formation of hammertoes and provide little protection or support.
- Heel Pain
- Ingrown ToenailsTrim toenails straight across. Avoid cutting the corners. Use a nail file or emery board. If you find an ingrown toenail, contact our office
- Foot Injuries
- Plantar FasciitisDo you suffer from sharp, stabbing pains in your heel when you step out of bed in the morning? What you are experiencing is likely plantar fasciitis. It is an inflammation of the band of fibers that run from your heel to toes. While you are sleeping the band begins to repair itself in a relaxed position. First thing in the morning, when you put pressure on the foot, the newly repaired fiber stretches and causes pain.
- Podiatric SurgeryAfter attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. Baird graduated with his Doctorate from Dr. William Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine in Chicago. He completed his surgical Residency at Mt. Sinai Hospital Medical Center, an inner city trauma center in Chicago. Dr. Baird is Board Certified in Foot & Ankle Surgery by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery.