Items filtered by date: December 2025

A podiatrist is a medical professional who specializes in the health of the feet and ankles. This expertise allows them to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions such as heel pain, diabetic foot concerns, tendon injuries, and structural problems that affect balance and movement. Podiatrists play an important role in early identification of foot and ankle problems, which can prevent minor issues from becoming more serious. They provide guidance on proper footwear, offer treatment plans tailored to individual needs, and support overall mobility and comfort. If you have foot or ankle discomfort or want to protect your long-term foot health, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Preventing falls at work begins with choosing the right footwear that offers support, grip, and a secure fit to keep you steady throughout the day. Being aware of surfaces is also important because wet floors, uneven ground, or loose rugs can increase the risk of slipping. Keeping work areas clean and free of clutter helps create a safer environment and reduces hazards that may go unnoticed during a busy day. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, recommend supportive shoes or custom orthotics, and address any pain or balance issues that may increase your risk of falling. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional fall prevention tips.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet and fallen arches can affect balance, comfort, and the way pressure moves across the feet with each step. Some people are born with low arches while others develop them over time, due to aging, injury, excess weight, or weakened tendons. When the arch flattens, the feet may feel tired, achy, or unstable, especially after long periods of standing or walking. Swelling along the inner side of the foot or ankle can appear, and shoes may wear down unevenly. Some individuals notice discomfort in the knees, hips, or lower back because the body begins to compensate for the altered foot structure. Paying attention to these changes supports long-term mobility and reduces strain on joints. If you have persistent foot fatigue, pain, or difficulty with stability, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective management tips.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes that affects the nerves in the feet and lower legs. Over time, elevated blood sugar levels can damage these nerves, leading to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, burning, or sharp pain. Some people notice a gradual loss of sensation, making it harder to feel temperature changes or small injuries. Others experience discomfort that interferes with sleep or daily activity. Because this condition develops slowly, many individuals do not realize the extent of the nerve damage until symptoms become more noticeable. Reduced sensation increases the risk of unnoticed cuts, blisters, or pressure points that can progress into serious wounds. Early detection and consistent foot care play a significant role in preventing complications. A podiatrist can identify changes, recommend protective strategies, and provide treatment options to manage symptoms and maintain foot health. If you are experiencing numbness or pain in your feet, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate care.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Gout and pseudogout both cause sudden joint pain in the feet, but they come from different types of crystal buildup. Gout occurs when uric acid crystals form in a joint, usually in the big toe, causing redness, swelling, and intense pain. Pseudogout occurs when calcium crystals form in the cartilage and move into the joint, often affecting the ankle or midfoot. Both can cause warmth, tenderness, and stiffness that make it difficult to stand or walk. The pain from pseudogout can last longer and affect more than one joint, while gout usually affects one joint at a time. A podiatrist can determine which condition is present by examining the joint, ordering X-rays, or testing a small sample of joint fluid. Early diagnosis helps reduce pain and protect the joints from lasting damage. If you suffer from gout flare-ups, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, DeWitt, and Davenport, IA. . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.