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Treating Fungal Toenail Infections

Toenail fungus can cause nails to thicken, change color, and become brittle. Treatment depends on how the infection has progressed. In early stages, medicated solutions applied to the nail may be used, as they reach beneath the nail surface to target the fungus. If the fungal toenail progresses, oral medications may be prescribed to fight the infection from the body. These medicines require monitoring due to side effects. In severe cases, part or all of the affected nail may be removed to clear the infection and allow healthier nail growth. A podiatrist can examine the nail, confirm the diagnosis, and determine which approach best fits the severity of the infection. Care plans often include follow-up visits to track progress and reduce the risk of recurrence. If you have symptoms of a toenail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

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Understanding Gait Disorders in Children

Gait refers to the way a person walks, and in children it can sometimes develop in patterns that raise concern. Pigeon toe, also called in-toeing, is when the feet turn inward while walking. Out-toeing occurs when the feet point outward. Toe walking is when a child walks on the balls of the feet without the heels touching the ground. These patterns may be linked to muscle imbalance, bone alignment, or developmental factors. Risk factors include family history, tight muscles, or neurological conditions. A podiatrist can evaluate walking patterns, provide guidance, and recommend supportive care or treatment when needed. If you notice your child has any of these walking patterns, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you on improving and managing these conditions.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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.

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How High Heels Can Affect Your Feet

High heels can place excess pressure on the front of the foot and alter the natural alignment of the body. This shift in weight may lead to pain in the ball of the foot, toes, or heel, especially after long periods of wear. The foot may appear crowded in the toe box, and some people notice redness, swelling, or the development of calluses. Over time, wearing high heels can contribute to conditions such as bunions and hammertoes, or place strain on the Achilles tendon. High heels may also cause instability, increasing the risk of ankle sprains. Contributing factors include heel height, narrow shoe design, and frequent use without supportive features. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure and gait to identify stress points and recommend appropriate care. Treatment may include shoe modifications, padding, and targeted exercises to improve strength and flexibility. If you have foot pain related to high heels, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for relief and prevention tips.

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?

  • 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.  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 one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Gout and Sudden Big Toe Pain

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. It often affects the big toe because this joint is more prone to temperature changes and stress, which can encourage crystal formation. Symptoms include sudden intense pain, redness, swelling, and warmth, often occurring at night. Risk factors include a diet high in purines, obesity, dehydration, certain medications, and family history. Without proper care, flare-ups may become more frequent and severe. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, provide treatment to relieve pain, and offer guidance on lifestyle changes to reduce future attacks. If you have symptoms of gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. 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 form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of 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 care needs.

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Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.