Items filtered by date: May 2023

An avulsion fracture of the ankle occurs when an injured ligament or tendon brings with it a portion of the bone. This takes place at the site where the ligament or tendon attaches to the bone. Because symptoms of an ankle avulsion fracture are similar to those of a sprain, an X-ray or other imaging test may be needed to determine the cause of the problem. Symptoms include pain, immediate swelling, bruising, and difficulty in moving the ankle. The healing time for an ankle avulsion fracture is between six and eight weeks, but depending on the severity it may take even longer. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the joint with screws and metal plates. A cast will be required to stabilize and immobilize the ankle joint as the bone heals. When that is removed, a series of stretching, strengthening, and range of motion exercises will be needed. As with all ankle injuries, it is important that the joint heals completely to avoid further problems. For treatment of an ankle avulsion fracture or more information about this injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.

It can be easy to confuse strains and sprains because both can cause ankle pain. An ankle sprain is the result of overstretching a ligament. This can happen to anyone, but is especially common among those involved in strenuous physical activity. A strain is the tearing of a muscle or tendon. Strains and sprains frequently occur in tandem, as the result of a sudden injury to the ankle joint. The ankle joint is a complex structure involving bones, ligaments, tendons, and muscles that work together to allow the body to move and absorb the stress of that movement. If too much weight is applied or the joint is stretched too far, injuries to any of the elements of the ankle joint can occur. Sprains and strains can range from a slight tear to a complete rupture. Treatment is dependent on the severity of the injury, as is recovery time. In most cases, healing from an ankle injury is likely to take months. If you have experienced an ankle injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, a diagnosis, and a course of treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, 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 Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further 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.

Many people are currently living with a condition known as rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, which is an inflammatory disease that attacks the joints. Individuals who have or are developing rheumatoid arthritis often experience certain symptoms that are highly indicative of the condition. For example, the joints in the body may ache, and more specifically, the ankles may be affected. Sometimes, the aching and pain can be symmetrical in the ankles, which means that both of the ankle joints may ache. Importantly, those whose ankles are affected by rheumatoid arthritis may also experience some amount of swelling in the ankle joints. If you think that you have rheumatoid arthritis and your ankles are being affected, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an appointment.

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.

When babies are born, their feet are flat. This means that if you were to place the soles of their feet on the floor, they would be flush with the floor. As the child ages, an arch typically develops. This generally happens by the time they are a teenager. If the arch does not develop, they would continue to have flat feet. While not deemed serious, flat feet can cause discomfort and can make doing everyday activities requiring prolonged standing difficult. Children are active and often play sports, which can cause cramping in the arch and heel areas. Well-fitting and supportive shoes, as well as shoe inserts or orthotics, can provide some relief for flat feet. Rarely will surgery be recommended. If your child has flat feet and they feel pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist to learn about options for relief.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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.

Arthritis can occur in any part of the body where joints exist. Since toes have many joints, this is a common place for arthritis to develop. Different types of arthritis can attack the toes, primarily osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. If the cartilage wears away between the bones in the toes, they will rub together and inflammation will occur. The big toe is the one most often affected. Past injuries, such as broken or sprained toes, can gradually cause arthritis. Aging, being overweight, and having a family history of arthritis are risk factors for this affliction. Symptoms of toe arthritis include pain, stiffness, and swelling. A clicking, popping, or a grinding noise can also be symptoms. Toe arthritis can cause difficulty with mobility. If you have toe pain, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose arthritis, and provide correct treatment options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best 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.