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Certain Foods High in Purine Can Trigger Gout Attacks
John Calvo has been suffering from gout since he was 25 years of age. Nearly twelve years later Calvo understands what triggers gout attacks and what can prevent them. Calvo recalls the pain felt during his first couple of attacks stating, “I just thought I had a broken toe… Bloodwork was done. Doc said it showed uric acid levels of a 40 year old.” Since then Calvo has found his gout attacks occur after drinking beer, while his relatives have attacks after eating pork and shellfish. While uric acid is found in nearly every organism, high protein meats or foods with high levels of purine are most likely to trigger an attack. Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you have any concerns regarding gout, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assist you with all of 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 our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and holistic treatment protocols for all your individual foot and ankle needs.
Barefoot Exercises May Help Strengthen the Feet
Many people perceive foot care as receiving pedicures and tending to their cuticles; but thorough foot care should involve strengthening the feet as well. There are several simple barefoot exercises one can do to strengthen the feet and ensure that they are biomechanically sound. Doing such exercises three times per week can help prevent muscle conditions such as plantar fasciitis. Triangle balance toe lifts, toe spreading, heel-toe walks, big-toe lifts, and foot massages can all strengthen the feet. Always remember to slowly transition into any new footwear, and that strengthening the feet and ankles can help them handle.
Exercising your feet regularly is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Exercise for Your Feet
Exercise for your feet can help you to gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important and often we forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate not to have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure its good health in the long run.
Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rise, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, also flexing the toes and involving the shins may help too. It is best to speak with your doctor regarding how to do these fitness steps and how often is right for you. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different and it varies from individual to individual to determine what should be done for you to maintain strength in your feet.
Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and El Dorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Cleveland Browns’ Billy Winn Carried Off the Field due to Sprained Ankle
Billy Winn of the Cleveland Browns has been diagnosed with a sprained right ankle after being examined by a trainer and then carted off the playing field. Winn is a defensive lineman who was a part of the Cleveland Browns’ high hopes for a strong defense this season. The unfortunate occurrence comes after the lineman was praised as one of the team’s emerging players. “We’re looking for big things, not just from him but the whole (defensive line) room,” said Pettine of Winn. “I think the competition is really going to force that room to work.” In light of the injury, the Browns have announced that Winn will be examined on a weekly basis.
Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your potential ankle sprain contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners, DPM. of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle 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 tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
United Kingdom Blames 135 Weekly Diabetic Related Amputations on Obesity
In the last five years, the United Kingdom has seen a 17% increase in diabetic amputations, performed on average 135 times per week. Experts blame this increase on Britain’s obesity epidemic where there has been in a 62% increase in diabetes overall within the past decade. Despite these figures, Diabetes UK believes that these numbers can change and amputations can be avoided if diabetic patients are given the correct care and education.
Feet associated with obesity and diabetes need regular care and attention. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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.
Solutions
Footwear – Specially made footwear that supports your joints, arches, and ankles, and allows room for good circulation is a great option to mitigate pressure and pain. A podiatrist will help you decide what works best for your specific needs.
Exercise – Exercise will help alleviate the pain and give your feet the strength it needs to support your body. Exercise also increases blood flow to your feet, allowing them to remain healthy and strong.
Most importantly, seek the help of a podiatrist for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
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.
Foot Stretches that Will Keep Feet Pain Free for Flip Flops
Although flip flops are a great method of footwear during warmer months because they appear to be comfortable and convenient, users have to clench their foot muscles to keep them on. This makes the feet susceptible to foot injuries over time. The following foot stretches were created to help reduce the tension flip-flops may cause on the feet.
1. Stand up straight with one leg reaching behind you while tucking the toes under the foot and place on the floor. Hold stretch for one minute. Can also be done while sitting down.
2. Place the ball of the foot against a rolled up towel or wall, straighten knee, and let the heel touch the ground. Hold for one minute three times on each foot.
Sit down and cross legs, interlace fingers and toes on one foot and spread toes. Hold for one minute and switch to the other foot.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Stretching Your Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Good ways to stretch your feet are:
· Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
· Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
· Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Eldorado and Metropolis, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Study Finds that Judo Can Fix Flat Feet in Children
According to a study published in the Journal of Pediatric Orthopaedics, young boys who practice judo were found to have higher arches and better balance compared to boys who were not as active. Flat feet rates in young boys have been higher recently due to a lack of proper diet and exercise altering foot position and gait. Since Judo is practiced barefoot and on flat surfaces, it causes stimulation in the proper receptors on the bottom of the feet.
Typically flat feet in children will develop around age six. If you suspect that your child has the condition, speak to Dr. Dean D. Hinnersof Illinois. Our doctor will answer any of your foot and ankle related questions and attend to all of your podiatric needs.
What are Flat Feet?
Flat feet are 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. Standing about 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arch 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:
Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe.
Swelling around the inside of the ankle.
Flat look to one or both feet.
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn
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 our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and treatments for your foot and ankle needs.
How Your Diet Can Increase Your Risk of Gout
Gout is an inflammatory condition that forms as a result of excess uric acid in the blood. Studies have shown that drinks that are high in sugar have resulted in a heightened risk of gout in men. Approximately 1 in 14 men and 1 in 35 women have the condition, and the big toe is the most common joint to be affected by it. Experts believe that cases of gout have risen in the past twenty years because more people are drinking soda and other sugary drinks than ever before. If you are worried about developing gout try to avoid things like seafood, which is typically high in purines.
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.
Woman has Achilles Tendon Torn after Shark Attack
Katie 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.
Hydrofeet Insoles Massage Pain of Plantar Warts in Children
Hydrofeet 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.
Bryce Dallas Howard of Jurassic World had to Strengthen Ankles to Run in High Heels
In 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.
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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.
New York Yankees Gets New Orthotics after Foot Flare Up
Brian 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.
Exercises for Pregnant Women and their Feet
Although 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.
Paula Radcliffe Prepares for Her Final Run after Years of Dealing with Foot Pain
Paula 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.
