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What a Podiatrist Does and How They Can Help

A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM, specializes in caring for the feet, ankles, and lower legs. These areas of the body play a vital role in balance and movement, yet they are often overlooked until pain or injury occurs. A podiatrist is trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions. Included are bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, fractures, arthritis, and sports injuries. They also manage diabetic foot concerns, wound care, and preventative screenings to keep small issues from becoming serious problems. Visiting a DPM is not only about treating pain, but also about improving mobility and overall quality of life. This type of doctor can provide custom orthotics, surgical care when needed, and guidance on proper footwear. If you are experiencing persistent discomfort, reduced range of motion, or any changes in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a professional diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

  • Physical therapy
  • Drugs
  • Orthotic inserts or soles
  • Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans 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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A Common Area of the Foot Where Stress Fractures Can Occur

Many patients can incur a stress fracture by participating in repetitive activities that can weaken the bones. The metatarsal bones are a common area in the foot where this type of injury can happen. These are the bones that connect the ankle to the toes and undergo stress as everyday activities are performed. Additionally, a stress fracture can occur in runners that increase speed and distance too soon, and it may possibly help to warm up and cool down before and after the activity is performed. The pain in the affected area may gradually diminish, but generally returns as the chosen exercise is performed. Relief can be found when the foot can rest, and this typically involves stopping the movement that caused the injury. If you have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you the best treatment options.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, 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 Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

  • Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
  • Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
  • Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

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 Changes in Elderly Foot Health

As people age, the feet often undergo changes that can affect comfort, mobility, and overall health. Common issues include loss of muscle strength, thinning skin, reduced circulation, and changes in toenail thickness or color. These changes can lead to discomfort, instability, or an increased risk of falls. Elderly people may notice aching feet, reduced balance, numbness, or difficulty fitting into shoes. These symptoms are often caused by a combination of natural aging, chronic conditions like arthritis, bunions, or diabetes- related problems. A podiatrist can evaluate these changes, and offer strategies for maintaining foot strength and flexibility. Treatment often includes lifestyle changes, orthotics, or targeted exercises. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to ensure your feet remain healthy, comfortable, and supportive as you age.

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.

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A Permanent Solution for Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail can cause repeated discomfort, swelling, and even infection if it continues to grow improperly into the surrounding skin. While temporary relief may be found with soaks or trimming, these methods rarely provide lasting results. For individuals dealing with persistent pain, a more definitive treatment is available. A podiatrist can perform a minor procedure that removes the part of the nail responsible for the problem. In many cases, the nail root is treated so the edge will not grow back. This approach prevents the cycle of recurring irritation and allows the surrounding skin to heal completely. The procedure is usually quick, performed in the office, and recovery is often easier than expected. If you are struggling with repeated ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to discuss a permanent solution.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

  • Improper toenail trimming
  • Genetics
  • Improper shoe fitting
  • Injury from pedicures or nail picking
  • Abnormal gait
  • Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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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Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!