A sprained ankle happens when supporting ligaments get stretched or torn a result of  tripping or falling, which can cause the ankle to twist. It is a common injury among athletes, and research has indicated that sprained ankles account for approximately 25 percent of sports related injuries. Many patients who have sprained their ankles exhibit symptoms that include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Ankle sprains require a proper diagnosis to be performed, which is helpful in ruling out a fracture. This is done by having an X-ray taken, and the results can determine what type of treatment is required. The majority of ankle sprains will heal within 6 to 8 weeks, and it is important to place the affected foot in a boot or brace, which can offer proper stability as the healing process takes place. Healing may be accelerated when weight is kept off of the foot, and existing swelling can be reduced when the foot is frequently elevated. If you have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can offer you correct treatment solutions.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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.

Running injuries are common among people who are athletic. It is important to practice running injury prevention techniques, and this can be accomplished in several ways. Warming up and cooling down before running is essential in keeping the body strong, and free of injury. Additionally, it is beneficial to gradually increase speed and mileage, and wearing shoes that fit correctly may help to prevent running injuries. Many runners can suffer from an acute injury, and this can happen from a fall or bumping into another runner. Such injuries can affect the ligaments and tendons, and walking can be difficult. Relief can be found when the affected foot is elevated, and this may help to reduce existing swelling. Chronic injuries are considered to be the most common type of running injury, and often includes stress fractures. It is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can educate you about different types of running injuries, and offer methods on how they can be prevented. 

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

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.

When you have diabetes, it is important for you to check your feet each day to make sure you do not have cuts or blisters that are not healing. Since about half of those with diabetes have nerve damage, it can cause one to lose feeling in their feet and they may not be aware there is a problem until it worsens and possibly becomes a more serious issue. It is obvious that the first order of business is managing the diabetes through diet, exercise, and necessary medication, but while this takes place it will be necessary to maintain good foot health practices – washing feet regularly, wearing well-fitting foot coverings, and checking for numbness, tingling, and pain. Those who are older and/or have other physical health problems are said to have a greater risk for complications from diabetic foot problems, such as ulcers or other infections. Since amputation can be the result of untreated foot problems in those with diabetes, it is suggested that regular visits to a podiatrist become part of routine foot health maintenance.

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

• 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, 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.