If the arch of the foot has not developed, causing the entire bottom of the foot to touch the ground while walking or running, your child may have a condition referred to as flat feet. Despite the fact that the majority of babies are born with flat feet, most typically outgrow it and the arches are fully formed by age 10. You may notice extreme flexibility in your child’s feet, possibly caused by soft ligaments, often resulting in fallen arches, or flat feet. This condition typically happens from a predisposed inherited trait, and little or no pain is generally experienced. If your child complains of any discomfort, there may be other foot issues present, and you may want to consider a consultation with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis.
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
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 FeetAn abnormality in which a bony bump forms on the big toe of your foot can be referred to as a bunion. The bone in your big toe is typically deformed and generally causes pain and discomfort. Choosing shoes with enough room in the toe area may prevent bunions from worsening, allowing the toes to feel less restricted. Wide shoes with a low heel are often recommended. Ways to ease the pain a bunion produces can include putting ice on it for a few minutes and placing a soft pad in your shoe. This can help decrease or completely remove friction that frequently occurs as the bunion rubs against the shoe. If daily activities are being affected by the pain a bunion causes, see a podiatrist for treatment.
If you are suffering from bunions, 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 a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
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 BunionsWhen 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.
Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of ThemWearing high heels may negate the fact that the feet act as shock absorbers. If proper shoes are worn, cushioning in the soles of the shoes generally protects the body from the constant battering incurred while walking and running. However, if the choice to wear high heels is made, the body’s weight shifts onto the balls of the feet, forcing the toes to be crammed into a small area and potentially resulting in all kinds of conditions. There are typically several reasons to avoid wearing high heels, one of which is abnormal movement occurring in the ankles. This can result from the foot being forced to bend forward, possibly restricting circulation in the feet. Additionally, the Achilles tendon is often affected which may cause pain in the calves. If high heels are consistently worn, the ankle and calf tendons may lose flexibility, making it difficult to walk. Good advice is to wear high heels as little as possible.
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 FeetWhen a toe is affected by the nail pressing into the skin, this condition is referred to as an ingrown toenail. This condition affects not only grown adults, but children and babies as well. Your baby may cry when the big toe rubs against a shoe or sock, and the tender skin will often be painful. A blister may emerge, and if an infection occurs, the discharge will be yellowish in color if it breaks. To prevent this condition, it’s recommended to use a nail clipper instead of scissors, which allows the nail to be cut straight across. Babies' feet typically grow fast, so it’s crucial to check the fit of the shoes and socks often. A consultation with a podiatrist may be advised for treatment options, which may include administering an antibiotic and possibly trimming the nail away from the skin.
Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.
Causes
Prevention
Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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 Ingrown Toenail CareObesity is a worldwide issue, affecting people from many different countries, and is often seen as a gateway for serious health conditions. The extra weight may cause imbalanced walking, consequently putting people at risk for falls and ankle sprains or breaks. Some people experience swollen feet, often being a sign of circulatory problems, in addition to developing cracked heels, originating from additional pressure on the feet. Practicing proper foot hygiene is crucial for preventing many different kinds of foot disorders. Drying the skin between the toes is important, as this habit may prevent fungal infections from developing. Additionally, because some feet may be wider than average, it is critical to wear a well-fitted shoe. If you are experiencing health issues in your feet, a consultation with a podiatrist is advised for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. 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
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
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 How Obesity Affects Your FeetThe heel is comprised of numerous tendons, ligaments, and fatty tissue. Common causes of pain in the heel may include possible stress fractures, bursitis, and obesity, and can typically be treated with ice packs, foot massages, and exercises designed to flex the foot. Probable diagnosis may include plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and Sever’s disease. Refraining from activities that may have caused the pain not only reduces the stress on the heel, but will help in healing the tendons. This pain is commonly avoided by choosing shoes with laces for a firmer fit, discarding shoes with heels that are worn, and stretching the foot by warming up before a sports related activity. A consultation with a podiatrist is advised in properly diagnosing the cause of the pain, in addition to discovering the best treatment options available.
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?
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 PainSweaty feet is a common condition that most people find uncomfortable, and it’s often associated with an unpleasant odor in addition to a soggy feeling in the shoes and socks. Wet feet often lead to problems such as fungal infections, usually stemming from bacteria that live in warm and moist areas. Synthetic shoes socks may possibly make this condition worse, so it’s advised to wear cotton socks and leather shoes or sandals. It’s important to change your socks often and walking barefoot whenever possible may also help allow your feet to breathe. Please consult with a podiatrist if you have questions about hyperhidrosis of the feet.
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 FeetMany 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.
Read more about How to Care for Diabetic FootThe overstretching and tearing of the ligaments around the ankle joint may often result in an ankle sprain. When the ankle suddenly moves out of its normal range of motion, the ligaments endure additional stress which may lead to a tear. This can be a common occurrence in sporting activities, but can also happen in everyday movements such as stepping off a curb. High-heel wearers also need to be careful, as tripping may be common due to unstable shoes. Immediate pain accompanied by tenderness is often felt because of the damage done to the ligaments. Swelling and bruising around the ankle is typical and may cause the ankle to feel unstable, resulting in difficulty walking. An MRI or X-ray is sometimes necessary in determining the severity of the sprain and in ruling out a possible fracture. Typically, elevating the foot and wearing ankle supports or braces may aid in reducing swelling, making the foot feel more comfortable. Please consult with a podiatrist immediately if you think you might have an ankle sprain.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. 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.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen 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 Ankle SprainsWhen is comes to podiatric care, podiatrists strive to exhaust all nonsurgical treatment options first. However, there are times and many reasons why people may need foot surgery. Some of these include bunions, which are bony bumps that form on the base of big toe. Surgery may involve straightening the big toe if symptoms continue for a long period of time. Permanently bent toes, also called hammertoes, can be eased by removing the deformed joint between the toes, which improves flexibility. Rheumatoid arthritis can leave the joints in the foot damaged by inflammation. The exact procedure will depend on the severity of this condition, but surgery is commonly performed on the big toe in order to make walking easier. If the ankle is damaged, ankle fusion may be necessary to fuse the talus bone to the tibia, thereby relieving pain in the ankle. Screws are used to hold the bones together, and will heal for 12-14 weeks. Normal shoes can be worn soon afterward and it will be easier to walk. Please consult with a podiatrist to discuss all options when it comes to foot-related conditions.
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:
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:
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 SurgeryTypically, running shoes are made with considerably heavier cushioning than walking shoes. Fitness walkers have different needs than runners, as walking has much less impact on the feet. One thing to look for when buying running shoes is to make sure the foot can bend in the shoe. Another suggestion is to look for a shoe with a low heel; this can support runners who land on the balls of their feet. Cushioned shoes are favored for those who walk long distances or on hard surfaces. Additionally, shoes that are made from lighter materials will be more comfortable because they are not as heavy.
For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.
Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes
There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.
You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.
Differences
Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.
Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.
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 Differences between Walking and Running ShoesIf you experience sudden attacks of swelling and severe pain, you may have gout. Gout is a form of arthritis in which small crystals form around the joints and may lead to kidney stones. A buildup of uric acid in the blood leads to inflammation and is the cause of gout. Gout typically affects the toes and ankles, in addition to the knees and fingers.The joints become swollen, and the skin in the affected area may appear red and shiny. Gout occurs in attacks and can be debilitating and extremely painful. Lowering uric acids levels may provide a long-term solution, which is commonly done through change of diet and medication. Ice packs are generally used during an attack for relief. Please consult a podiatrist if you have difficulty walking or have severe pain in your feet.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. 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 type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
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 Everything You Need to Know About GoutIf your feet continually sweat, you may have a condition known as hyperhidrosis. Simply put, the sweat glands in the feet are constantly working, and don’t know when to stop. Many patients who have this often contend with athlete’s foot, nail fungus, or cold feet. Since the feet contain roughly 250,000 sweat glands, using an antiperspirant before bed may be a good first choice for treatment. Additionally, starting a journal may help in identifying how and when the sweating occurs. It may be found that certain foods are triggers and can therefore be avoided. Foot hygiene plays an important role in managing this condition; washing the feet twice daily will be beneficial. Using antifungal foot washes in addition to drying the feet thoroughly may help reduce the presence of bacteria on the skin. If the condition does not improve, a podiatrist should be consulted for advice on how to handle 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 Feet