
Blisters from hiking are common and can turn a great trek into a painful experience. They form when repeated friction, heat, and moisture irritate the skin, causing fluid-filled bubbles to develop. The metatarsal heads, which are the rounded ends of the long bones in the ball of the foot, are particularly prone to blisters due to pressure and movement during hiking. Surprisingly, the number of blisters does not reflect foot functionality or fitness in hikers. Even seasoned hikers with strong feet can experience blisters if conditions like improper footwear or prolonged moisture arise. Prevent blisters by wearing well-fitted boots, moisture-wicking socks, and applying blister prevention products. If a blister forms, clean and protect it to avoid infection. If you have persistent or painful blisters it is suggested that you seek professional care from a podiatrist who can provide tailored advice to keep your hiking adventures on track.
Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Achilles Tendon Rupture
- Ankle Sprains
- Broken Foot
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Stress Fractures
- Turf Toe
Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.
Treatment
Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe occurs when one or more of the smaller toes become bent in a Z-shaped position, due to an imbalance in the tendons or poor joint alignment. Common causes of hammertoe include wearing ill-fitting shoes, having unusually long toes or metatarsal bones, or conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The second toe is most frequently affected, but the third and fourth toes can also develop into a hammertoe. This deformity often results in discomfort when wearing shoes, especially those with a narrow or low-toe box. Excessive friction on top of the affected toe can lead to calluses, corns, or even ulcers. In some cases of hammertoe, pain in the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia, develops. A podiatrist can diagnose hammertoe through an examination of the foot while assessing other joints for arthritis or other underlying conditions. Treatment options include custom orthotics to reduce pain or surgical correction for rigid deformities. If you have developed a hammertoe that is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Michael A. Wood from Foot Health Institute. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.
Symptoms
- Pain in the affected toes
- Development of corns or calluses due to friction
- Inflammation
- Redness
- Contracture of the toes
Causes
Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible
Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur
Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe
Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe
Treatment
Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it
Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used
Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle fractures are a growing concern in pickleball, particularly among older women. Post-menopausal players are at greater risk due to reduced bone density, making bones more susceptible to breaks. These injuries often occur during falls when a player slides or dives for the ball but miscalculates their landing, leading to a painful twist or impact. An ankle fracture involves a break in one or more of the bones in the ankle joint, causing swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Preventing such injuries starts with wearing sturdy, supportive shoes designed for court sports and improving balance and agility through regular exercise. Playing on well-maintained surfaces and practicing controlled movements also help reduce risks. If you have broken your ankle while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, 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 Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.
When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.
Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle
- Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
- Swelling around the area
- Bruising of the area
- Area appears to be deformed
If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lansing, and Chicago, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.