Podiatry Blog | Foot Doctor Metropolis, IL 62960 and Eldorado, IL 62930

Why is it Important for Seniors to Maintain Proper Foot Care?

Monday, 24 September 2018

There are several ways seniors can practice proper foot care. These may include wearing shoes that fit correctly and are comfortable to wear during daily activities. It’s important the toes have adequate room to move around inside, and this may possibly avoid a pre-existing case of bunions from becoming worse. It may also prevent corns from developing. Additionally, performing a gentle exercise program frequently, may aid in keeping the blood flowing. These may include walking and stretching, which may help to maintain proper circulation. Washing the feet and drying thoroughly between the toes may be beneficial in preventing athlete’s foot from developing. When a moisturizing lotion is used, a painful condition referred to as cracked heels may be avoided. When the toenails are trimmed properly, occurrences of ingrown toenails may decrease. If you are a senior, it’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist on a frequent basis to discuss any foot conditions that may be present.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and 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.

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

Different Types of Foot Pain

Monday, 17 September 2018

There are several different types of foot pain that many people experience. Some patients may feel pain that radiates in the entire foot, which may be caused by a condition that is referred to as neuropathy. This may occur among diabetic patients as a result of elevated blood sugar levels, and may cause nerve damage. Additionally, if the pain is located in the ball of the foot, a condition known as Metatarsalgia may develop. This commonly occurs as a result of wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Gout, hammertoe, or bunions may cause toe pain, and proper treatment may include adapting a lifestyle change or taking prescription medications. A common form of heel pain may be indicative of plantar fasciitis, which typically affects the tissue that links the heel and the toes together. It’s suggested that if you are experiencing any type of foot pain, a consultation with a podiatrist will be helpful in determining the best course of treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

Bunions
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Bone Spurs
Corns
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Ingrown Toenails
Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
Flat Feet
Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

Foot Conditions That May Occur as a Result of Wearing Flip Flops

Monday, 10 September 2018

The type of footwear referred to as flip flops are popular summer shoes that are made of thin soles and typically are not meant to be worn for extended periods of time. Despite the fact that many people indulge in wearing these types of shoes, there may be moderate discomfort and symptoms that can be associated with them. These may include an achy feeling that may be present in the foot and ankle in addition to the formation of calluses and blisters. Other foot conditions that may develop as a result of wearing flip flops may be the development of bunions and hammertoes. The risk of injury may be increased from choosing to wear this type of shoe and this may occur as a result of a lack of stability. If you have questions pertaining to flip flops and would like additional information about the pros and cons for wearing this type of shoe, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who will be able to answer any questions you may have.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

They Slow You Down
May Cause Blisters and Calluses
Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

What Foods to Avoid if You are Afflicted with Gout

Tuesday, 04 September 2018

When specific foods are ingested on a frequent basis, a flare-up of a condition known as gout may occur. There are several symptoms that accompany this ailment, including severe pain and discomfort surrounding the big toe, redness, and extreme tenderness when the area is touched. Certain foods have elevated levels of purines, which is known to raise uric acid levels in the blood. This causes crystals to form, and may lodge in the joints of the feet, most commonly the big toe. Research has shown that certain foods should be limited or avoided, which are high in purine levels. These may include alcohol, shellfish, and meat. For patients who experience gout, it may be advised to drink plenty of fresh water frequently, increase the amount of fruits and vegetables that are eaten on a daily basis, and to lose weight slowly if obesity is a factor. Please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist if you are afflicted with gout for immediate treatment options.

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.

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