Is Foot Therapy Effective?
If an injury should occur to the foot or ankle, foot therapy may be an avenue that is pursued to obtain mild relief. There are many foot conditions that would benefit from having physical therapy performed, and these may include plantar fasciitis, or foot and ankle stress fractures. Some patients find it helpful to use this form of therapy to aid in recovering from foot or ankle surgery, and it may help in regaining full range of motion. Additionally, flexibility and overall strength in the feet and ankles may improve when specific muscles are stretched. If you would like to know more about the benefits of foot therapy, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly guide you.
Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Most Common Injuries
People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track.
What to Do When Injured
Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.
During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:
Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.
Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.
Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Foot Therapy for Sports InjuriesWhat Is Plantar Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for a condition that causes excessive sweating all over the body. Plantar hyperhidrosis is a form of this condition that specifically affects the feet. This ailment usually begins in childhood or adolescence, and in severe cases can cause some physical limitations. The extra moisture can make the feet more prone to bacterial or fungal infections and blisters. Tinea pedis and pitted keratolysis are two examples of possible infections that can result from excess moisture. These two infections can easily be treated with antifungal cream, antibiotic cream, or medication. Plantar hyperhidrosis is symmetric, so it affects both feet equally. The sweating can range from mild excessive sweating to severe constant sweating. If you think you may have plantar hyperhidrosis, then it is recommended you consult with a podiatrist to learn new methods to help living with this condition.
If you are suffering from hyperhidrosis contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
Hyperhidrosis of the Feet
Hyperhidrosis is a rare disorder that can cause people to have excessive sweating of their feet. This can usually occur all on its own without rigorous activity involved. People who suffer from hyperhidrosis may also experience sweaty palms.
Although it is said that sweating is a healthy process meant to cool down the body temperature and to maintain a proper internal temperature, hyperhidrosis may prove to be a huge hindrance on a person’s everyday life.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is considered to be the main form of hyperhidrosis. Secondary hyperhidrosis can refer to sweating that occurs in areas other than the feet or hands and armpits. Often this may be a sign of it being related to another medical condition such as menopause, hyperthyroidism and even Parkinson’s disease.
In order to alleviate this condition, it is important to see your doctor so that they may prescribe the necessary medications so that you can begin to live a normal life again. If this is left untreated, it is said that it will persist throughout an individual’s life.
A last resort approach would be surgery, but it is best to speak with your doctor to find out what may be the best treatment for you.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Hyperhidrosis of the FeetPodiatry as a Career
People who choose to pursue a career in podiatry are involved in caring for patients where foot and ankle problems persist. A well-rounded doctor of this type of medicine may possess a certain level of empathy, and this may be helpful in listening to the concerns of his or her patients. A typical day may include performing a physical examination, followed by determining a correct diagnosis. This will precede a discussion of treatment options. There are several foot conditions that podiatrists can treat, and these may include ingrown toenails, plantar fasciitis, and heel spurs. Some podiatrists are interested in performing surgeries such as reconstruction of the feet and ankles, in addition to treating foot conditions as a result of diabetes. If you are considering a career in podiatry, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to determine if podiatry is right for you.
If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What is a Podiatrist?How to Find Relief While Working on Your Feet
Many people stand for the majority of the day while working.Foot pain may develop gradually or suddenly, and may often be a result of working on your feet for extended periods of time. There may be moderate relief that can be attained by wearing shoe inserts or standing on stress mats instead of concrete floors. Additionally, it may be beneficial to walk occasionally throughout the day, and this may help the feet to stretch. It’s important that correct shoes are worn, which generally includes making sure the shoes have a good arch and adequate support. Many patients find it is helpful to rest the feet during the day when possible. If you are experiencing any type of foot pain that may be a result of working on your feet, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can properly assist you.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Working on Your FeetKeeping Pressure Off Foot Wounds
Wounds take time and attention to heal, especially when they are on the foot. Similar to injuries known as bedsores, wounds on the bottom of the feet are constantly under pressure. This pressure slows the healing process, because blood flow is weakened. Keeping pressure off the wound is essential in order to get the blood flowing back into the foot and facilitate the healing process. This can be done in easy ways, such as sitting or laying down. Standing directly on a wound probably causes some discomfort anyway, so giving it time to breathe is important. If you have an open wound on your foot and have additional questions, then it is recommended that you speak with a podiatrist to learn about the proper treatment options.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Wound CareMany Types of Foot Surgery
There are many reasons why a patient would choose to have foot surgery performed. These may include correcting a foot deformity, relieving severe pain and discomfort, and providing easier mobility to the foot and ankle. There are different types of foot surgery that can be implemented, including removing a toenail, which may become necessary if an ingrown toenail becomes infected, and ankle replacement surgery which may relieve the pain from joints that are affected by arthritis. Additionally, diabetes may lead to a foot amputation, and this may be the result of extremely elevated insulin levels in the blood. If you are experiencing chronic foot conditions and are considering surgery, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can correctly inform you so a proper decision can be reached.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:
- Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
- Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
- Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
- Bunionectomy for painful bunions
- Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
- Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Foot and Ankle SurgeryThe Benefits of Stretching the Toes May Help Hammertoe
The medical condition that is referred to as hammertoe is considered to be a deformity of the joints in the toes. It most often occurs in the second toe, and will cause the toe to resemble a hammer, which is a result of the top of the toe turning downward. Many patients may develop this condition if they are flat-footed or born with the second toe that is longer than the first. There are several reasons why this uncomfortable condition may occur, and these may include wearing shoes such as high heels, which may provide inadequate room for the toes to move freely in, arthritic conditions that are present in the feet, or a predisposed inherited gene. There are noticeable symptoms that are often associated with this condition, including toes that curl, difficulty in wearing shoes that fit properly, or possible pain in the ball of the foot. When specific toe stretches are performed frequently, it may help the tendons in the foot to relax. Additionally, if the toe is splinted, this technique may aid in stretching the tendons and ligaments in the foot, which may bring a moderate level of relief. If you notice the formation of a hammertoe, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist, so the correct treatment can begin.
Hammertoe
Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. 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 Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about What Are Hammertoes?Preventing Falls in Cold Weather
Research has shown the unnatural act of falling may be common among senior citizens. According to a portion of an AARP bulletin, deaths from falling is among the highest in the cold states of Wisconsin and Minnesota. In places where there may be an accumulation of snow, it may be beneficial to wear shoes that have traction or cleats, and this may aid in preventing any falls that may occur. If you must walk outside for extended periods of time, it may be helpful to look at your pathway a few steps in advance, and this may prevent any slipping on black ice. In addition to properly preparing your trek outside, it is important to check the condition of your home and remove items that may cause tripping. These may include repairing or replacing any loose carpeting and moving any extension cords that may be a falling hazard. If you have endured a fall and have injured your ankles or feet, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist so proper treatment can begin.
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 Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Falls PreventionWhat Time of Day Should Running Shoes Be Purchased?
Research has shown that the importance of buying the correct shoes for running may be based on the amount of mileage that is covered and the type of running that is practiced. Additionally, many runners recognize that the shape of the foot may play a significant role in the style of shoe that is chosen. When purchasing shoes, it may be beneficial to try them on later in the day when the feet are typically at their largest. The toes must have enough room to move within the shoe, and the ankle and foot can maintain stability when the heel is solid. When socks that are worn for running are dusted with baby powder, excess moisture that may come from excess sweat may be absorbed and uncomfortable blisters may be avoided. If you would like additional information on how to choose the proper running shoe, please speak with a podiatrist.
You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.
Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe
- Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
- There should be little to no slipping at the heel
- Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
- Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
- Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Choosing the Right Running ShoeFlat Feet May Gradually Disappear with Age
The medical term that is referred to as flat feet is indicative of the arches in the foot appearing lower than what is classified as normal. Most babies are born with flat feet, and the arches will gradually develop as the aging process occurs. Some patients will have flat feet, or fallen arches throughout their lives, and this may be a result of improper development of the arches during childhood. Noticeable symptoms of this condition may be discomfort and pain in the area where the arch should be, in addition to possible heel pain. Patients whose arches have not properly developed may experience frequent falling or tripping or may notice considerable weakness or pain in the feet. Research has indicated that wearing shoes, which are more supportive may aid in living with flat feet, in addition to performing gentle stretches, which may improve overall flexibility of the foot. If you have this condition, it is important to consult with a podiatrist, who can properly guide you to implement correct treatment techniques.
Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Flat FeetMore...
Symptoms of a Broken Ankle
If you have fallen and have severe pain in your ankle, it may be broken. A noticeable symptom of this condition is extreme discomfort and an obvious deformity in the ankle and surrounding area. Walking will be unbearable as a result of the intense pain and swelling, and bruising may occur as the injury causes the blood to leak from the vessels. Many patients who have endured a broken ankle may be familiar with the painful feeling of crepitus, which is the name given to pieces of bone grinding together as a result of the broken ankle. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which will typically include having an X-ray taken. Once confirmation of a broken ankle is achieved, treatment can begin. This may include putting the ankle into a splint, cast, or walking boot. If you or someone you know has a broken ankle, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can properly guide you to the best form of treatment.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. 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 Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about All About Broken AnklesSeveral Ways to Treat a Broken Ankle
If you have fallen unexpectedly or stepped abruptly off a curb, you may have had the displeasure of experiencing an ankle sprain. It is typically the result of the ankle suddenly twisting or rolling, which may move the ankle out of alignment. There are several ligaments that surround the ankle and may tear if an ankle sprain occurs. There are several symptoms that may be associated with this condition, including noticeable swelling, bruising, and difficulty in bearing weight on the ankle. It’s important to have a proper diagnosis performed, which most likely may include having an X-ray taken. An MRI may be prescribed if the ankle sprain appears to be of a serious nature, or if damage has occurred to the surface of the ankle joint. There are many ways to treat a broken ankle, and this may depend on the severity of the injury. If you feel you have sprained your ankle, it is advised to consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can determine the best course of treatment for you.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
- Pain at the sight of the tear
- Bruising/Swelling
- Ankle area is tender to touch
- In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
- Skin discoloration
Preventing a Sprain
- Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
- Stretching before exercises and sports
- Knowing your limits
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Ankle SprainsTips for Choosing the Correct Shoe Size
There are several reasons why shoes may not fit correctly. These may include having toenails that are not trimmed properly or having medical conditions such as diabetes and poor circulation. Additionally, research has shown the feet may change sizes as the aging process occurs and it is advised to properly measure your feet before purchasing shoes. When a shoe is selected that is similar to the shape of your foot, the desired comfort level may be easier to attain. There are a few simple steps that may be implemented to ensure a properly fitted shoe. These may include expecting the shoe to feel comfortable when initially tried on, making sure there is adequate room for the longest toe to fit easily in, and walking in the shoes before making the decision to buy them. If you would like additional information about choosing the correct shoe size, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist.
Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Getting the Right Shoe Size
There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.
- When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
- Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
- Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
- Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
- If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes
As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet HappyToe Arthritis
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort in your big toe, you may have a foot condition that is known as toe arthritis. It may be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight and may not have adequate room for the toes to move about in. One of the first signs that may be indicative of toe arthritis may be pain that is felt in the toes. Many people feel stiffness in the toes, and this may be a result of the diminished cartilage that is located between the joints, in addition to obvious redness and swelling of the toes and surrounding area. If you are afflicted with this condition, it may be difficult to perform daily activities that may include walking or standing for extended periods of time. If you are experiencing arthritis in your feet or toes, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist who can advise you on correct treatment options.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain. The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it. Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.
Symptoms
- Swelling
- Pain
- Stiffness
- Decreased Range of Motion
Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.
Risk Factors
- Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
- Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
- Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
- Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
- Age – Risk increases with age
- Gender –Most types are more common in women
- Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary
If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about How to Care for Your Arthritic Foot
