Items filtered by date: June 2022

Ankle pain refers to any kind of discomfort or pain in the ankles. Such discomfort may come from an injury, a sprain, or a medical condition. An ankle sprain is one of the most common causes of ankle pain. A sprain is when the ligaments, or tissues connecting bones, tear or become overstretched. Most of these strains occur when the foot rolls and the outside ankle twists towards the ground. Ankle sprains often swell and bruise. Pain can last for up to 14 days, but it may take several months for the injury to heal fully. Ankle pain can also be a result of a health condition, such as arthritis, gout, or an infection in a joint. Rest can help ankle pain and once the pain subsides, gentle exercise of the ankles can help gain mobility back and reduce swelling. If the pain is from arthritis, there is no cure, but it can be managed by continuing to move, practicing stretching and strengthening exercises, and keeping body weight in a healthy range. If one has broken their ankle, it is important to consult with a podiatrist to see how bad the break is and if the ankle needs to be set or if surgery is necessary. If after giving an injury time to heal, and making lifestyle modifications, the pain worsens, or it becomes impossible to bear weight on the affected foot, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment plan customized for you. 

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially 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
• Bursitis
• 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.

The Achilles tendon attaches the heel bone with the calf muscles and helps make plantar flexion possible (bending your foot downward at the ankle). Tennis players, dancers, and runners in particular engage their Achilles tendon constantly, and can sometimes suffer an overuse injury known as Achilles tendinopathy. Achilles tendinopathy usually develops when tiny repeated injuries (micro-traumas) to the Achilles tendon occur and never fully or properly heal. This repeated wear and damage compounds over time and eventually causes the Achilles tendon to become swollen, stiff, and painful. Poor training habits can also be a precursor to Achilles tendinopathy, such as training on hard/sloped surfaces, using improper technique, wearing inadequate footwear, and increasing the intensity or frequency of your workouts too rapidly. If you believe you have Achilles tendinopathy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. A podiatrist can relieve your symptoms while helping to heal the Achilles tendon properly with various techniques and therapies, exercises, painkillers, orthotics, and more. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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.

Many people enjoy wearing flip-flops during the warmer months. Their various colors and exemption of laces can make these types of shoes tempting to slip into. Research has indicated, however, that there may be some drawbacks to wearing flip-flops. Patients who frequently wear them may experience foot and ankle pain, in addition to walking differently. This may be a direct result of the flip-flops having no arch and little to no support. The toes must also work harder to keep these shoes on the feet. Additionally, flip-flop wearers often take shorter steps, and this can cause more stress to the overall body. Heel pain is also a common ailment among flip-flop wearers. Flip-flops generally have a thin sole and are backless, which can lead to the development of cracked heels. If you would like more information about the dangers of wearing flip-flops, please consult a podiatrist who can 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

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.

The Achilles tendon is considered to be the thickest and strongest tendon in the body. It connects the calf muscles to the heel and enables the patient to point and flex the foot. The Achilles tendon can become injured in an accident or due to improper warming up and cooling down before exercising. Some of the symptoms associated with an Achilles tendon injury can consist of heel pain while running and the back of the calf may feel stiff and tight. It is important to stop running when this type of injury occurs, as ample time is needed for the tendon to heal. It may be beneficial to perform stretches that can help to improve flexibility and range of motion of the Achilles tendon. An effective exercise is known as the eccentric heel drop. This is practiced by standing on a step and lowering the heel until a gentle stretch is felt. It can also be done facing a wall like the picture shows. If you have incurred an Achilles tendon injury it is strongly advised that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 create immense 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 injuries 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 one of our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.