broken toe3Damon Jackson suffered a broken toe while practicing push kicks before his meeting with Georgian wrestler Levan Makashvili. “It snapped. I felt it, and as soon as it happened, I knew it was broke,” Jackson said of his broken toe. The next day Jackson found his foot swollen and badly bruised. He said that he was determined to battle through the injury.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

·         throbbing pain

·         swelling

·         bruising on the skin and toenail

·         the inability to move the toe

·         toe appears crooked or disfigured

·         tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact 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 a broken toe.

Monday, 09 May 2016 12:00

Managing Your Morton’s Neuroma

foot care6Morton’s neuroma is a condition in which small lumps develop between the third and fourth toes on the nerves, leading to pain, tingling, and irritation. The pain usually occurs in the ball area of your toes. Morton’s neuroma can be caused by various factors, including ill-fitting shoes such as high heels, stress on the feet from high pressure activities, and conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet. Treatment options for Morton’s neuroma include changing your footwear, custom orthotics, injections that will help reduce inflammation of the nerve tissues, and surgical removal.

Morton’s Neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of having Morton’s Neuroma?

·         -Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot

·         -Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot

·         -Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact 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 Morton’s neuroma.

plantar fasciitis6Star forward Gordon Hayward of the Utah Jazz was unable to play in the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers because of plantar fasciitis in his foot. Recovery time for Hayward was then unknown, but the Jazz medical staff suggested that “the best course of action for Hayward [is] to undergo a period of treatment and rehabilitation.”

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

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

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

·     Excessive running

·     Non-supportive shoes

·     Overpronation

·     Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

·     Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices

·     Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis

·     Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

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

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis

achilles tendon6A patient at the Kansas Hospital describes her heel pain as “a thumbtack shooting straight up your heel.” She was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis in both of her feet, caused by inflammation of the plantar fasciia, a band of tissue in the foot. She planned to have treatment to relieve her plantar fasciitis, which involves using an ultrasonic needle to remove diseased tendon tissue from the heel. According to Dr. Zachary Collins, the healing process thereafter will take around six weeks. Dr. Collins describes the treatment as effective in improving the foot’s condition.

Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. For more information, see Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

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 thing of the past.

With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.  

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Heel Pain

Arthritis5Arthritis, being one of the most common diseases affecting individuals as we age, can also commonly occur in the feet and ankles. According to pantagraph.com, “the feet are more susceptible to arthritis than other parts of the body because each foot has 33 joints that are subjected to the body’s weight-bearing load.” Simply put, our feet are the foundations of our body and are also the most prone to conditions such as arthritis. There are different kinds of arthritis and each type can flare up sporadically in the body, affecting the joints and causing inflammation. Treating your symptoms immediately is essential to preventing the progression of the disease.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment,see Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

Arthritic Foot Care

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

·         Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility

·         Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications

·         Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact 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 arthritic foot care.

slower walkingFoot problems can become more commonplace as we get older. As we age, “our feet are prone to many conditions that can cause discomfort and impact mobility.” It’s important for older adults to see a geriatrician to monitor their feet. Although a foot problem may not seem serious, unforeseen complications can lead to eventual disability if not diagnosed and treated. “We’ve learned that sometimes it’s not the foot disorder but the accompanying pain that is the real problem,” says Dr. Marian Hannan, Co-Director of Musculoskeletal Research Center and Senior Scientist at IFAR.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles see Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

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 threating 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 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 Elderly and Feet

foot injuryJames Madison University senior Lavaedeay “Vad” Lee recalls having surgery in his left foot in October after having broken it. Plates were inserted into the foot, and Lee could not run or do any physical activity on the foot. The plates were taken out in late February after several months of recovery. Lee’s injury may have prevented him from being able to be drafted into an NFL team.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries need proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. If you have any concerns, see Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

Sport Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

●     Plantar Fasciitis

●     Plantar Fasciosis

●     Achilles Tendinitis

●     Achilles Tendon Rupture

●     Ankle Sprains

Sports-related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact 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 sports related injuries.

broken foot6Despite dealing with a broken foot, Jared Allen of the Panthers was still able to play the Super Bowl with it. While Allen was unable to participate in the conference championships in Arizona, he was able to make an appearance during his first Super Bowl in twelve seasons in the NFL. Allen has played for the Panthers for 13 games since he was sent away in a September trade. He has also played for the Bears for a little over a season.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. To learn more, see Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

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:

  • Bruising

  • Pain

  • Redness

  • Swelling

  • Blue (foot)

  • Numbness

  • Cold

  • Misshapen

  • Cuts

  • Deformities

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 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 Broken Feet

Monday, 21 March 2016 21:02

New Shoe Trends Push Back High Heels

high heel14While high heels have been a major staple in fashion, it seems like with their presence in causing injury, more accommodating shoes are gaining popularity. From the new Adidas and Kanye West “Yeezy” collection to cute orthopaedic flats, high heels are taking a back seat to comfort. This may be happening due to the damage the shoes are causing to the feet. If worn for long periods of time, high heels can put stress on your back and the arches of your feet.

High heels have a history for causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, see Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because their style and societal appeal. Despite this, they can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

What parts my body will be affected by high heels?

·         Ankle Joints

·         Achilles Tendon – may shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear

·         Balls of the Feet

·         Knees – heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them

·         Back – they decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. Also, the vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What kinds of foot problems can develop from wearing high heels?

·         Corns

·         Calluses

·         Hammertoe

·         Bunions

·         Morton’s Neuroma

·         Plantar Fasciitis

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 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 the effects of high heels.

Monday, 14 March 2016 14:14

Tom Brady Recovering from Sprained Ankle

broken ankle3Quarterback Tom Brady of the New England Patriots says he’s “feeling better” about the sprained ankle he sustained in the game against the Miami Dolphins. Brady was seen limping at a recent news conference. He was tackled by defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, who had landed on him. Brady says “I’ve always dealt with injuries. I’m very confident I know how to deal with injuries,” going on further to say that he’s keen on making a full recovery so he can get back to playing for his team.

Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, see Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your heel pain symptoms in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

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?

●     Mild to moderate bruising

●     Limited mobility

●     Swelling

●     Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

●     Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion

●     Stretching before exercises and sports

●     Knowing your limits can aid in prevention

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 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 sprains.

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