Tuesday, 21 January 2025 00:00

The Pain of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes heel pain and results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes. Heel pain often develops from repetitive stress or overuse, particularly in people who spend long hours on their feet, such as healthcare workers, teachers, or retail employees. Poor footwear, tight calf muscles, or high-impact activities like running can worsen the problem. The pain can be sharp, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged sitting. Addressing plantar fasciitis early is key to preventing it from becoming chronic. Rest your feet, stretch regularly, and wear supportive footwear. A podiatrist can assess your condition and recommend treatments like custom orthotics, targeted stretching, or night splints. For severe cases, treatments may include advanced therapies like corticosteroid injections, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, or surgery. If you have pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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 Plantar Fasciitis
Tuesday, 14 January 2025 00:00

Plantar Fibroma Facts

A plantar fibroma is a benign growth of fibrous tissue that forms on the bottom of the foot, typically along the arch. It is often described as a lump or nodule and can vary in size. The main symptom of a plantar fibroma is localized pain or discomfort in the affected area, particularly when walking or standing for long periods. In some cases, the fibroma may not cause pain but may still be noticeable as a firm lump under the skin. The exact cause of plantar fibromas is not entirely understood but is believed to be linked to genetic factors, trauma, or certain medical conditions such as diabetes or liver disease. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination, where a podiatrist may palpate the foot to feel for the fibroma. Imaging tests like an ultrasound or MRI may also confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. If you have developed a lump along the arch of your foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat a plantar fibroma.

A plantar fibroma may disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Plantar Fibroma

A plantar fibroma is a fibrous knot in the arch of the foot. It is embedded in the plantar fascia which is a band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. There can be multiple plantar fibromas in the feet at the same time. There are no known causes for this condition. If you have a plantar fibroma, there will be a bump in the arch of your foot that cannot be missed. Any associated pain is most often due to a shoe rubbing against the nodule. Non-surgical options, such as steroid injections, physical therapy, and orthotics should be tried first. Surgery is a last resort and is the only thing that will remove a plantar fibroma entirely. Consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to determine the treatment regimen that is right for you.

What Causes a Plantar Fibroma?

While there are no specific causes identified, a plantar fibroma can possibly come from genetic predisposition or the formation of scar tissue that forms from healing the tears in the plantar fascia.

What Are the Symptoms of a Plantar Fibroma?

There will be a noticeable lump in the arch of the foot that may or may not cause pain. If pain is felt, it is typically because a shoe is rubbing up against the lump or when walking or standing barefoot.

Treatment and Prevention

A plantar fibroma will not disappear without treatment, but it can get smaller and be a non-issue. If pain persists, a podiatrist examines the foot and when the arch of the foot is pressed, pain can be felt down to the toes. An MRI or biopsy might be performed to help diagnose or evaluate the plantar fibroma. The following non-surgical options are generally enough to reduce the size and pain of these nodules:

  • Steroid injections
  • Orthotics
  • Physical therapy to help apply anti-inflammatory creams on the bump 

Surgery is considered if the mass increases in size and the patient continues to feel pain after non-surgical methods are tried.

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 Plantar Fibroma
Wednesday, 08 January 2025 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Tuesday, 07 January 2025 00:00

Why Are My Toenails So Thick?

Thick toenails, medically known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection where the toenails become discolored, thickened, and brittle. The nails may appear yellow, white, or even brown, and can sometimes separate from the nail bed. This infection typically  occurs after exposure to fungi that thrive in warm, damp environments, such as sweaty shoes or communal areas like swimming pools. Poor foot hygiene, a weakened immune system, or diabetes can also increase the risk of developing onychomycosis. Symptoms include thickened, misshapen nails, crumbling edges, and a foul odor. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, leading to pain and difficulty walking. A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat nail fungus effectively. Treatments may include antifungal medications, topical solutions, laser therapy, or in severe cases, nail removal. Your podiatrist will assess the severity of the infection and recommend the best course of treatment. If you are dealing with this issue, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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 How to Treat Your Toenail Fungus
Tuesday, 31 December 2024 00:00

Heel Pain Causes and Risk Factors

Heel pain can be caused by a variety of factors that place stress on the structures of the foot, particularly the heel bone, muscles, and ligaments. Some common causes of heel pain include abnormal walking patterns, obesity, wearing ill-fitting footwear, and prolonged standing or activities on hard surfaces. Physically active people, middle-aged adults, pregnant women, and those with arthritis or diabetes are at greater risk. Heel pain may also result from injuries like stress fractures, inflammation of soft tissues such as bursitis, or nerve issues like neuromas. Complications can include plantar fasciitis, where the connective tissue along the sole becomes inflamed, and heel spurs, which are calcified growths linked to chronic strain. A podiatrist can determine the cause of heel pain, identify contributing factors like gait abnormalities, and recommend treatment, such as custom orthotics or adjustments to footwear. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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 Heel Pain
Tuesday, 24 December 2024 00:00

Preventing Sever’s Disease in Growing Feet

Sever’s disease, or calcaneal apophysitis, is a common cause of heel pain in children and adolescents, especially during growth spurts. It occurs when the heel bone grows faster than the surrounding muscles and tendons, creating tension and inflammation at the growth plate where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel. Activities like running, jumping, or sports with repetitive impact can worsen this condition. To protect young feet, ensure children wear properly cushioned, supportive footwear during activities. Stretching exercises for the calves and hamstrings can relieve tension on the heel. Avoid overtraining or prolonged high-impact sports, and encourage rest if pain arises. If your child is complaining of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan, keeping kids active while reducing the risk of long-term discomfort.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. 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 one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Read more about Sever's Disease
Tuesday, 17 December 2024 00:00

Decisions About Foot Surgery

Foot surgeries address various conditions, including bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, fractures, and flat feet. Common procedures include a bunionectomy to remove bunions, hammertoe correction to realign curled toes, and plantar fascia release for chronic heel pain. Other surgeries may involve repairing torn tendons or fusing joints to relieve arthritis pain. Deciding on foot surgery depends on the severity of the condition, pain levels, and how much it affects daily life. Surgery is usually considered when conservative treatments like orthotics, targeted stretching, or medication fail to provide relief. A podiatrist plays a vital role in this process, offering a thorough evaluation, imaging studies, and a tailored treatment plan. They can guide you through non-surgical options first and explain the risks, benefits, and recovery of surgery. If you are considering treatment options for a foot problem, including surgery, it is suggested that you obtain counsel from a podiatrist.

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 Surgery

Playing pickleball can put stress on your feet, so choosing the right shoes is essential for preventing plantar fasciitis. Look for shoes with a plush tongue and collar that provide a soft, cushioned feel around the ankle. This added comfort helps reduce pressure on your feet during intense movements. A lightweight construction allows for swift and agile footwork without straining your legs. The upper of the shoe should be crafted from a breathable blend of leather and mesh, ensuring proper ventilation to keep your feet cool and dry. Shock-absorbing soles are another essential feature as they help reduce the impact on your heels and arches, providing additional support to prevent injury. You can enjoy pickleball while protecting your feet from plantar fasciitis with the right pair of shoes. If you have foot pain from playing pickleball, contact a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions and determine the best shoes for this popular sport.

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 Shoe
Sunday, 08 December 2024 00:00

Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

Tuesday, 03 December 2024 00:00

Understanding Corn Formation

Corns are thickened, hardened areas of skin that typically develop on the feet, often causing discomfort and pain. These formations occur as a response to repeated friction or pressure, usually from wearing ill-fitting shoes or abnormal foot mechanics. There are two main types of corns. Hard corns  are small, round, and found on the tops or sides of toes, and soft corns are white and rubbery, often found between the toes. The primary cause of corns is consistent rubbing or pressure, which triggers the skin to harden as a protective response. Symptoms include localized pain, tenderness, and the visible buildup of thickened skin. Corns can lead to further complications if left untreated, including infection or difficulty walking. Corns can cause severe pain, and it may be difficult to complete daily activities. If you have a painful corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief tips.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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 Corns and Calluses
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