Neuropathy is a condition that affects the feet, specifically causing them to lose feeling. This can be incredibly dangerous, especially if you have developed a serious foot condition and can not feel the symptoms of it. Neuropathy may also alter the shape of your foot. Your arch may be raised, your toes can begin to bend downward, and the bones at the ball of your foot may protrude outward. When the shape of the foot changes, it in turn changes its overall function as well. To keep your feet comfortable, you may want to look into wearing shoes with extra support. Other signs that indicate you may have developed neuropathy include sensations of numbness, stinging, burning, and stabbing aches and pains. Hypersensitivity, as well as dry or cracked skin may develop due to neuropathy. In order to receive a proper diagnosis, and a suggested plan for treatment, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist for professional 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 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:
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.
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection. A majority of athlete’s foot cases are caused by fungi that thrive in closed, warm, and moist environments. The fungi feed on Keratin, which is a protein found in the hair, nails, and skin. Athlete’s foot is mildly contagious and can spread through direct contact with the infection and by skin particles left on towels, shoes, or floors. Walking barefoot can increase the chances of contracting athlete’s foot. The risk can also go up depending on your susceptibility. People who have impaired immune systems or diabetes are at greater risk for infection if they have an open cut or sore on their foot. If you have developed athlete’s foot or feel that you may be at risk, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist.
Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.
What Is Athlete’s Foot?
Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.
Prevention
The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:
Symptoms
Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.
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.
Many diabetics incur nerve damage, often making it difficult to feel sores, blisters, or cuts. Checking the feet nightly can be helpful in preventing infections; however, it may be difficult for the diabetic patient to check their feet due to arthritis, diminished eyesight or possible back problems. Having someone check the feet daily or using a small mirror may be beneficial in observing the soles of the feet. Symptoms to look for include any type of irritation, redness, or callus; additionally, paying extra attention to the toes and the ball of the foot is crucial in noticing foot ulcers. Moisturizing is necessary in preventing dry skin, which may cause cracked heels that can become infected. If an electric blanket is used, it may be wise to not use it because of reduced feeling in the feet. Additionally, ice packs can cause numbness in the feet and may not be recommended for this reason. Trimming the toenails is important to do with clippers that are designed for toenails, thereby preventing injuries to the foot. Please consult your podiatrist for advice in keeping your feet healthy
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
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.
Research has indicated that foot health may be compromised when obesity is a contributing factor. Common foot conditions of obese patients can include sprained ankles, general foot fatigue, blisters, calluses, and athlete’s foot. People who are overweight may find it difficult to exercise, which is helpful in maintaining an optimum weight. If you are struggling with obesity, it is important to purchase larger shoes as this may help to prevent blisters and corns from developing. To help prevent injury to the soft tissues of the foot, select a padded sock to be worn with new shoes. The padded sock helps ensure that the feet don't slip and slide in the shoe and that the toes don't pinch together. It is suggested that obese people who are experiencing various foot conditions visit with a podiatrist who can properly manage related foot ailments.
The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Obesity and Your Feet
People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.
Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity
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.
The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and can endure numerous aches and pains as a result of bearing the weight of the body. A common type of foot pain comes from developing a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This ailment affects the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. The discomfort is often felt in the heel and may feel its worst upon arising in the morning. Additionally, heel pain can be associated with a heel spur. This is described as a small growth that extends from the heel, and can develop due to repetitive stress that can come from frequently participating in running and jumping activities. A stress fracture is a hairline crack in one of the bones in the foot and can cause severe pain and discomfort. This type of foot injury gradually develops. Common symptoms may include a stabbing pain and general discomfort in the part of the foot that is affected. If you have any type of foot pain it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist can properly diagnose your condition and offer you the best treatment options.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot 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.
A medical condition that is referred to as peripheral artery disease (PAD) can have severe symptoms that often include muscle cramping in the legs and feet. Patients who exercise may notice the pain diminishes when activities are stopped. This can be a result of decreased blood flow. Additional symptoms of this ailment may consist of wounds on the feet or toes that may not heal properly, consistent leg pain, and the feet may feel cold for the majority of the day. It may also be indicative of heart issues, which is why it is important to be properly diagnosed. If you have a numbing or tingling sensation in your feet, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.
Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.
Symptoms
Symptoms of PAD include:
It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.
Diagnosis
While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.
Treatment
Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.
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.
A fungal infection of the toenail is a common condition that many people are afflicted with. It’s prevalent in people who are diabetic or who have compromised immune systems, in addition to enduring any trauma that may have affected the toes. This type of fungus generally lives in moist environments and is typically found on public shower room floors. Some of the symptoms that may be experienced can include the nails becoming thick, yellow or brown, and the nails lifting up, breaking easily. It’s possible to prevent this fungus from invading your toenails by keeping your feet clean and dry, especially in between the toes. Additionally, wearing proper footwear in public showers will also aid in the toes being protected. Maintaining clean and short nails may be beneficial in controlling this condition. Please consider a consultation with a podiatrist for information and treatment options that are correct for you.
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.
There are many ways to break your foot, and we wouldn’t recommend any of them. Severe pain when walking, in addition to bruising, are common symptoms of a foot that has been fractured. If limping occurs and the foot is tender when touched, these may be additional signs of a break in the bone. Obvious symptoms may include a deformity of the foot, which may indicate a joint dislocation. When the structure of the bone has been damaged, an x-ray is generally used to determine the extent of the injury. Once diagnosed, the injury may be treated by wearing a boot to help eliminate weight that is placed on the foot. A consultation with a podiatrist is advised for a proper diagnosis and additional treatment options.
A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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 Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.
Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:
Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.
Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.
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.
When the foot incurs abnormal pressure from wearing incorrect footwear, a corn may develop. A corn is a small area of thickened skin, usually appearing on the tops of the toes or the balls of the feet. These are typically referred to as hard corns, often producing redness, swelling, and pain. Soft corns are usually found between the toes, appearing white and having a rubbery texture. Both types of corns are produced by excessive friction, typically caused by wearing ill fitting shoes and from moisture accumulating between the toes. Many people will develop corns throughout their lives, and it is one of the most common foot ailments. It’s important to prevent corns from developing by being aware of specific areas of the foot that often endure pressure. If you stand for most of the day, it’s suggested to take ample time to find shoes that fit properly. Additionally, the skin will benefit significantly by being moisturized. Please consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and information on how painful corns can be removed.
If you have any concerns 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 can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.
Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:
Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor 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.
The general cause of a condition referred to as gout is an excess of uric acid that accumulates in the body. The big toe is typically affected, and obvious symptoms may include intense pain, swelling, and redness in the surrounding areas. It will often appear as an inflamed protrusion on the side of the big toe, and may affect the ability to walk. Research has shown that it may be a controllable condition and may occur because of the foods that are ingested. There may be several items that may fall into this category, including the consumption of red meat, an excessive salty foods, and any type of shellfish. Drinking excess alcohol may also lead to the development of gout, in addition to a family history of high blood pressure. Occasionally, there may be specific medical conditions in which the body has difficulty eliminating uric acid, such as kidney or thyroid ailments. The treatment for gout can vary, so it’s advised to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor 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
Risk Factors
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 one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Many women choose to wear high heels to increase confidence, height, and the muscle tone of the leg. These perceived benefits may not outweigh the damage the feet may incur as a result of wearing this type of shoe. The arch of the foot is typically affected, which may lead to pain and discomfort. When the heel of the foot is raised, the ligaments of the arch become weak, and may result in the development of a condition referred to as fallen arches or flat feet. There is generally not enough room for the toes to move about freely, and this may result in a conditions such as hammertoe. The feet absorb the body’s mass, and the weight becomes redistributed, which affects the ball of the foot when high heels are worn. If high heels are frequently worn, the Achilles tendon may become shorter, causing severe pain. Recent research has suggested that wearing shoes with a shorter heel can prevent many foot injuries from occurring.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or 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.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads 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 Effect of High Heels on the FeetAs the spring and summer months begin and bring warm weather with them, you may feel tempted to wear a pair of flip-flops. While these shoes are easy to slip on, they also make it easier to slip, leading to potential foot and ankle injuries. Furthermore, wearing flip-flops often can make you alter your gait or walking pattern. When you wear flip-flops, you tend to point your ankles inwards and curl your toes to keep the shoes on your feet. This unnatural walking pattern can lead to all sorts of foot problems, from hammertoes to heel spurs. Flip-flops also offer no arch support, which can lead to arch pain and plantar fasciitis. When the weather is warm, opt instead for sandals with heel straps, which will keep your foot in place. For more information about avoiding foot and ankle problems caused by footwear, please consult with a podiatrist.
Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. 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
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.
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.
Recent studies may have found that wearing certain shoes that have a heel may benefit your feet and posture than by wearing flat shoes which may not have an arch. Choosing shoes that have a wider heel may aid in maintaining proper balance and wearing shoes with a shorter heel may help in keeping excess pressure off the toes. For those people who enjoy wearing shoes with an extremely high heel, it's advised to choose shoes that have a chunky heel as opposed to very thin heels. This can help in preventing possible damage to the foot, including the formation of hammer toes or blisters. It’s suggested to wear high heels for short durations at a time which may allow the feet to become accustomed to the desired heel size. If you have questions about how to choose a proper high heel that may benefit the feet, please speak with a podiatrist.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or 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.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads 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.
Plantar hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes the feet to sweat excessively. An overabundance of sweat can make the skin of the feet break down, become pale and wrinkled, red and inflamed, or cracked. The feet may also emit a foul odor as sweat is broken down by bacteria. Excessive sweat can ruin shoes and socks, make you more likely to slip and fall, and be embarrassing in public. Fortunately, plantar hyperhidrosis can be treated effectively. Antiperspirants can be prescribed and applied directly to the skin to reduce sweating. Iontophoresis and botox injections into the feet are two other potential solutions. If you have excessively sweaty feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist to find the right treatment for you.
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.