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What Is Sesamoiditis?
Sesamoid bones are connected to tendons instead of other bones or can be deeply embedded in muscle tissue. The largest sesamoid bone is the kneecap. Two other petite sesamoid bones, the size of corn kernels, are located at the base of the toe in the ball of the foot. When these bones become stressed due to overuse from activities such as ballet dancing, running, playing baseball or similar sports, the tendons surrounding the sesamoid bones become inflamed and painful. This is known as sesamoiditis. Check with a podiatrist if you suspect you are afflicted with sesamoiditis. Sometimes bruising can occur, and if it does it is normally mild. You can cushion the bruise with padding and avoid tight constricting shoes or other sources of friction. Podiatrists can help treat sesamoiditis with icing, compression bandages, and more, while prescribing rest and elevation of the affected foot.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
- Sudden increase in activity
- Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
- Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
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.
How Exactly Do Blisters Form?
When friction from a shoe or sock rubbing against your skin causes the epidermis (top) layer and dermis (underlying) layer of skin to move in opposite directions, the skin becomes irritated, red, and inflamed. Continued friction will cause the epidermis and dermis to separate and fill with fluid or blood, and a blister is formed. Pain from a blister is caused when nerves are stimulated by the fluid. You can help stop blisters from occurring by wearing shoes that fit properly and don’t allow your feet to slip around or rub against them. New shoes or boots should be worn in properly and gradually—before wearing them all day. If you are planning a long walk or hike, you can try taping areas on the foot that are prone to blisters such as the back of the heel, the big toe and the little toe. A podiatrist can show you how to tape your feet properly and also create custom orthotics designed specifically to keep your feet from developing blisters. They can even suggest appropriate footwear for walking and running.
Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Foot Blisters
Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.
What Are Foot Blisters?
A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.
How Do Blisters Form?
Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.
Prevention & Treatment
It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.
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.
Charcot Marie Tooth Disease and the Feet
Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) disease is a neurological condition characterized by a weakness and loss of sensation in the legs, hands, and feet due to nerve damage. This condition is genetic, affecting approximately 1 in every 2500 people. CMT develops gradually over time and progressively worsens. While there is no cure, a podiatrist can help you manage the symptoms of CMT in your feet. People with this condition may experience a change in the structure of their feet, developing high arches and hammertoes. Pain, muscle weakness, altered sensation, and muscle cramps are also common. Your podiatrist may recommend a treatment program consisting of foot strengthening and stretching exercises, orthotics, pain medication, and possibly surgery to reduce symptoms and maintain your mobility and quality of life. If you suffer from CMT disease, seeing a podiatrist can help.
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 Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
What is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the posterior tibial nerve in the tarsal tunnel becomes pinched or compressed. This causes a number of symptoms including burning and shooting pain, a pins and needles sensation, numbness, and tightness in the foot. There are several reasons why the nerve could become compressed, which include bony prominences, bone spurs, abnormal heel position, and the swelling of tendons in the tarsal tunnel. Due to the nature of tarsal tunnel syndrome, diagnosis may be difficult because it can seem to mimic the symptoms of other conditions; heel pain and arch pain are some examples. It is best to see a podiatrist if you are experiencing any of those symptoms. Podiatrists can offer a number of treatments, such as orthotics, taping or bracing, rest, icing, anti-inflammatory medication, or even surgery if other treatments do not improve your condition.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
- Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
- The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
- If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
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.
The Elderly and Foot Health
Taking good care of your feet becomes more important as you get older. Age tends to exacerbate foot issues, with many people over the age of 65 reportedly suffering from foot pain. Another common issue among the elderly is diabetes. Diabetes causes neuropathy, or nerve loss, in the lower body, especially in the feet. Diabetics suffer from poor blood circulation in the legs and feet as well. This means that if a diabetic sustains a wound, they may not realize it due to loss of sensation, and the wound may not heal properly. In severe cases, amputation may be necessary if the infection significantly worsens. Because of this, elderly diabetics need to take extra care of their feet, though most elderly people will also benefit from practicing good foot health. Good foot health strategies include daily foot inspections for any abnormalities, washing and drying the feet, keeping one's diabetes in check, and wearing quality socks and footwear that will protect the feet and provide ample foot support. Finally, performing a check-up with a podiatrist yearly is also recommended.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
Causes of Heel Spurs
If a tiny bone protrudes from the heel of the foot, you may have what is known as a heel spur. This condition occurs when the portion of tissue that connects the heel to the toes sustains an injury. Early symptoms may consist of swelling, pain, and general discomfort, and these typically occur while walking. Other contributing reasons for this condition can include weight gain or if the wrong shoes are worn. To properly diagnose this condition, an X-ray is typically performed to view the bone protrusion. There are several treatment options available, and these may include properly stretching the calf muscles, losing excess weight, and wearing shoes that fit correctly. It’s advised to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and to learn about the best treatment options for your heel spur.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Common Symptoms of Sesamoiditis
If you experience pain under the ball of your foot, you may have a condition that is referred to as sesamoiditis. There are small bones that exist within the sole of the foot, and a possible injury can cause inflammation to the tendons that connect the big toe to these bones. If this should happen, common symptoms may include pain being present while walking and running, in addition to experiencing difficulty standing on tiptoes. The skin typically does not show any signs of being swollen or red because the injured bones and tendons are deep within the foot. It generally stems from beginning any new activity that may involve running and jumping, typically indicative of a new sport. If you feel you are suffering from this ailment, it’s suggested that resting the foot by reducing the activity will be beneficial in promoting healing. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist for more information about sesamoiditis.
Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.
Causes of Sesamoiditis
- Sudden increase in activity
- Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
- Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible
Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.
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.
Why is it Important for Seniors to Maintain Proper Foot Care?
There are several ways seniors can practice proper foot care. These may include wearing shoes that fit correctly and are comfortable to wear during daily activities. It’s important the toes have adequate room to move around inside, and this may possibly avoid a pre-existing case of bunions from becoming worse. It may also prevent corns from developing. Additionally, performing a gentle exercise program frequently, may aid in keeping the blood flowing. These may include walking and stretching, which may help to maintain proper circulation. Washing the feet and drying thoroughly between the toes may be beneficial in preventing athlete’s foot from developing. When a moisturizing lotion is used, a painful condition referred to as cracked heels may be avoided. When the toenails are trimmed properly, occurrences of ingrown toenails may decrease. If you are a senior, it’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist on a frequent basis to discuss any foot conditions that may be present.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
- Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
- Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
- Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
- Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
- Shoes that don’t fit properly
- Pressure sores
- Loss of circulation in legs & feet
- Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
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.
How Many Different Types of Corns Are There?
If you have ever experienced a corn on the top of the toes, you most likely are aware of the pain that is associated with it. Corns are generally the result of increased pressure and rubbing, and typically originates from shoes that do not fit correctly. It appears to be a small area, and the skin will be hardened and thick. There are known to be two types of corns and are referred to as hard and soft corns. The latter generally develops in between the toes and are often soft, because of the excess moisture and sweat that is present. Hard corns come from wearing shoes that are too tight and may often cause the toes to endure unwanted pressure, resulting in pain and discomfort. There are different types of treatments that may be used to eliminate corns, and it’s advised to speak with a podiatrist for possible relief options that are correct for you.
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.
Wearing Flip Flops May Negatively Affect The Feet
Research has indicated that frequently wearing flip flops may cause unpleasant foot conditions to gradually develop. These can include heel and ankle pain, in addition to increasing the likelihood of stubbing your toe, which may lead to a broken toe. The average flip flop has minimal support for the overall foot. This includes little cushioning in the heel and arch area, which can contribute to a lack of shock absorption. The toes may undergo stress as they attempt to keep the shoe on the foot, as a result of excessive gripping. People who wear this type of shoe often take shorter steps, which may alter their style of walking. Painful conditions such as heel spurs and plantar fasciitis may develop as a result of wearing flip flops. Additional information is available from a podiatrist about the harmful effects wearing flip flops could have on the feet.
Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.
When Are They Okay to Wear?
Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.
Why Are They Bad for My Feet?
These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.
More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet
- They Slow You Down
- May Cause Blisters and Calluses
- Expose Your Feet to Bacteria
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.
More...
How Did I Get a Heel Spur?
A spur is a bony growth that may develop due to repetitive irritation or stress. As its name suggests, a heel spur develops on the heel bone or calcaneus. More specifically, it typically forms in one of two places on the heel bone. An inferior calcaneal spur forms underneath the heel bone and is associated with plantar fasciitis, a common ligament injury in the foot. A posterior calcaneal spur forms on the back of the heel bone and is associated with Achilles tendonitis. Heel spurs can be asymptomatic or cause sharp pain, dull aches, stiffness, and numbness in the affected heel. Corns and calluses also often form over the affected area. If you have painful heels, please see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.
Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.
Heels Spurs
Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.
Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.
Pain
The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.
Treatments
There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.
If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?
If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!
Why Pain in Your Heel May Be Worse in the Morning
There are different conditions that cause stiffness or pain in your heel that gets worse in the morning. Pain from conditions such as plantar fasciitis—where the long band of tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed—can be worse in the morning because blood supply to the feet is reduced while you sleep. Similarly, an inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel bone with the calf muscles (Achilles tendinitis) can also be more painful upon waking. This can also be caused by poor circulation, or the fact that calf muscles are shortened while at rest and may become painful when they are stretched as you take your first steps. Unlike plantar fasciitis, however, heel pain from Achilles tendinitis typically does not subside after moving around and warming up the heel. If you have any pain in your heel, seek the care of a podiatrist to determine its cause and the best course of treatment.
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.
How to Avoid Achilles Tendon Injuries
If you find yourself engaging in vigorous activity, but only on the weekends, this is something you should be aware of. Injuries like Achilles tendonitis, or a ruptured Achilles tendon, can happen very quickly. For us non-professional athletes that don’t have time in our busy schedules to reach pinnacles of muscular strength, we are more susceptible to these acute injuries. The Achilles tendon connects the heel bone to the calf muscles and is essential to being able to walk. If the tendon ruptures, surgery will be necessary in order to repair this very painful injury. Achilles tendonitis is when the tendon becomes inflamed, typically due to overuse or not stretching beforehand. Both of these conditions can be treated by a podiatrist and if you experiencing intense heel pain you should consult with one immediately. In order to avoid these injuries, strengthening the tendon by gradually stressing them over time may be helpful. And always remember to stretch!
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. 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.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
- Inflammation
- Dull to severe pain
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
- Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
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.
