swimming3Katie Hester was swimming off the shores in the Bahamas when she was attacked by a six-foot-long shark that tore her Achilles tendon. The 23-year-old felt something tugging on her leg when the shark began to thrash her around in the ocean. After successfully getting away from the shark and back onto her boyfriend’s boat, Hester was rushed to medical aid where she had received dozens of stitches to repair her Achilles tendon and other wounds.

 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

 

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 cause severe 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 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 our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

 

Read more about Achilles tendon injuries.

childrens feet15Hydrofeet uses liquid glycerin and thermoplastic polyurethane to create insoles that ease the pain of plantar warts in children. Children suffering from plantar warts experience discomfort when participating in sports since the warts typically occur on the soles of the feet making standing, walking, or running uncomfortable. The insole adjusts to support the arch of each foot and massages the foot with each step to reduce pain. Although most plantar warts will eventually go away on their own, if your child is experiencing tremendous pain it is always best to see a doctor for treatment.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you have any concerns with plantar warts on your feet contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

·         Legions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy

·         Hard or thick callused spots

·         Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots

·         Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

·         Freezing

·         Electric tool removal

·         Laser Treatment

·         Topical Creams (prescription only)

·         Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, will help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about plantar warts.

foot care6In the new Jurassic World movie, Bryce Dallas Howard was often seen running away from dinosaurs in high heels. Although it would seem strange to have a character not change into a more stable shoe to run around in, Howard believed it was a proper fit for the movie and trained her ankles accordingly for the role. With the help of UFC winner Pete Williams, she participated in balance and ankle exercises to help reduce any potential injuries of running around in high heels. “I remember about half-way through I thought to myself, ‘Man, my ankles are so strong,’” the actress stated.

Running in high heels can cause many problems for the feet and ankles. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because they are associated with femininity. Despite their appeal, they can 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; you can buy either full inserts or metatarsal pads.

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

Read more about the effects of high heels.

Monday, 17 July 2017 00:00

Treating Ankle Sprains

Ankles are an important part of the human body's structure, since they provide the flexibility needed to walk. An ankle sprain occurs when there is a tear in the ligament. These tears can either be mild and result in a mild sprain, or they can be severe and cause a more serious sprain. Ankle sprains can happen to anyone regardless of age, and they can occur while performing any everyday activity. If you are suffering from a mild sprain, it is advised that you follow the RICE method, which stands for Rest, Ice, Elevation, and Compression. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be used to treat minor cases of ankle sprains.

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?

  • 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

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 Sprains

orthotics5Brian McCann of the New York Yankees has been fitted with new orthotics after experiencing some arch pain while on the field. “I had the same mold for the last three years. The arch on my foot has changed” McCann stated, starting conversation on the importance of regularly ordering new orthotics to reflect changes in the foot. The hitter recalls how nerve wracking it was to have his foot flare up again leaving that asleep and tingly feeling in the foot and lower leg. After having an MRI and CT scan of the foot, McCann has no serious injuries, he just needed new orthotics.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and more severe heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses, and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain free.

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

Read more about Orthotics

pregnancy6Although soon-to-be moms have many things to take care of during pregnancy, it is additionally important that feet and ankles are paid attention to. During pregnancy many women experience natural weight gain in addition to swollen ankles, feet, and flat feet. Accordingly there are certain exercise techniques that can help reduce these foot ailments. If sitting for a long period of time, take short walks regularly to reduce swelling in the feet and ankles. To reduce over-pronation or flattening of the arch, stretch the calves, rotate the ankles in a circular motion, and try the reverse and standing calf raise.

Pregnancy can put a tremendous amount of stress on the feet. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Dean D. Hinnersof Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What foot problems can arise during pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is over-pronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy, but tends to occur in the later stages.

How can I keep my feet healthy during pregnancy?

·         Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly

·         Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot

·         Wear shoes with good arch support

·         Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet

·         Elevate feet if you experience swelling

·         Massage your feet

·         Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Metropolis, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about pregnancy and feet.

xrayPaula Radcliffe, one of the best known female distance runners in history, will run for what may be her last time in the London marathon after suffering with many foot problems including arthritic foot. Although her foot has healed and she has made small improvements in coming back to the track after many surgeries, Radcliffe states, “I just know my body can’t take marathon training anymore.”

Arthritis is a painful condition and arthritic foot care is necessary to avoid further complications. If you have any concerns contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What is Arthritis?

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 concerns contact our offices located in Metropolis ad Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about arthritic foot care.

diabetic foot care3Researchers fromWurzburg and Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits in Erlangen, Germany have recently created a pressure sensing sock to aid diabetics suffering from diabetic neuropathy. Often times those with neuropathy are unable to sense pressure on their feet and can obtain wounds that could lead to issues such as gangrene and amputations. The device has over 40 sensors made of a silicone film where pressure points on the feet are combined and mapped to help prevent further issues. Although the sock is a great innovation for the diabetic community, researchers are still working to make the device less bulky and more accessible.

Diabetic patients are often at a high risk for neuropathy, amputations, and other issues. If you have any concerns about your diabetic feet, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including 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

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because 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 our office located in Metropolis, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about diabetic feet.

feet babyWhen pain is experienced while walking, a calcaneal spur or heel spur may be the culprit. A spur typically occurs when a calcium deposit forms on the bottom of the heel. Since heel spurs are often associated with other foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, there are many treatments to easily resolve the pain. Foot orthotics are one of the most common ways in treating a heel spur since it cushions the heel and makes it comfortable to walk again. The orthotic also helps cushion the area as well as correct any walking habits that may have been another cause of the pain.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful, and sometimes might make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, call Dr. Dean Hinners of 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 a cause from small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching it to the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot. Bone may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs. Pain sometimes intensifies with age. Heel spurs are known to cause a substantial amount of pain. One of the main associations spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often times 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 poke and affect other boners 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. Medicines, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

For more information about Heel Spurs, follow the link below.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office in Metropolis, IL. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs

Monday, 12 June 2017 00:00

Why You Should Take Care of Your Feet

Walking can provide several benefits to your body. Following a walking routine can help lower your risk of diseases, strengthen your heart, prevent dementia, and boost your energy levels. A good walking routine starts with having healthy feet. Fortunately, there are some tips you can follow to make sure your feet are taken care of. Prior to walking, you should make sure that you are not cutting your toenails too short. Toenails that are short may lead to ingrown toenails and pain. Another tip is to wear breathable socks. This will help prevent unpleasant odors, blisters, and rashes. Lastly, you should make sure you keep yourself hydrated in order to help avoid getting cracked feet.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. 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.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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 Every Day Foot Care
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