Bunions, a bony bump at the base of your big toe, can result from a misalignment of bones and tissues that pushes the toe inward. While surgery is the only way to completely remove a bunion, nonsurgical bunion treatments can effectively manage symptoms and slow progression. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box and low heels can reduce pressure on the bunion. Custom orthotics can help with proper foot alignment. Toe spacers and splints can also relieve discomfort by preventing further misalignment, although they will not permanently correct the bone structure. Stretching exercises may increase flexibility and ease pain, but they will not reverse the bunion itself. If your bunion is causing discomfort, consulting a podiatrist early can lead to treatment options that delay or prevent further complications. If you have pain caused by a bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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 a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• 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.

Clubfoot is a congenital condition where a baby’s foot or feet are abnormally twisted. This deformity causes the foot to point downward and inward, resembling a club. It occurs due to an abnormal development of the tendons, muscles, and bones of the foot. The exact cause is often unclear but may involve genetic and environmental factors. Diagnosis typically occurs through physical examination shortly after birth, where the abnormal positioning is evident. In some cases, clubfoot affects both feet, known as bilateral clubfeet. Symptoms include an abnormal foot shape, limited movement, and difficulty placing the foot flat on the ground. If your child has clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the condition, and begin treatment which may include specific stretches, casting, or surgery to increase mobility. 

Congenital foot problems require 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.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain in the heel and the bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot and connects the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. This inflammation is often due to overuse, excessive pressure, or improper footwear. People with plantar fasciitis typically experience sharp, stabbing pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest. To manage plantar fasciitis, it is important to rest and avoid activities that can worsen the pain. Wearing supportive shoes can help to reduce strain. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections, or even surgery may be necessary to achieve relief. If you have plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option 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.

As pickleball continues to rise in popularity, so does the incidence of foot injuries among players. This fast-paced sport, which combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, involves quick lateral movements, sudden pivots, and constant pressure on the feet, making them vulnerable to various injuries. Common foot injuries in pickleball include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and stress fractures. These injuries are often the result of inadequate footwear, overuse, or insufficient warm-up and stretching before play. Players may also experience ankle sprains from sudden changes in direction, a frequent occurrence in the game. Preventing foot injuries in pickleball starts with wearing proper court shoes that offer good support and cushioning. Regular stretching exercises, particularly focusing on the calves and Achilles tendon, can also help. Additionally, gradually increasing play intensity and taking rest days can reduce the risk of overuse injuries. If you enjoy pickleball but have incurred a foot injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete 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 care needs.