The foot condition known as hammertoe is unsightly and it’s considered to be a deformity. Hammertoe affects the middle joints in the second, third, or fourth toes and can cause the toes to bend downward, resembling a hammer. It happens as a result of a muscle imbalance which may occur due to genetic reasons or from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. The toes look crooked and may be reversed in mild cases. When the toe remains flexible, it may be straightened by pressing on the affected joint. In severe cases, the toes become rigid, and surgery is often necessary for permanent straightening. Some patients develop a hammertoe from stubbing their toe and this can push the tissues at the joint out of alignment. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis as well as treatment options that are best for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

There are specific bones in the body that are unique because they do not use joints to connect to the other bones. These bones are referred to as sesamoid bones, and tendons are used to connect these bones to other bones in the body. Additionally, they can be found inside muscles. The sesamoid bones help to support the body, and sesamoiditis can happen when the adjoining tendons become inflamed and irritated. It is a common injury among ballet dancers, and this is a result of the style of dancing they pursue. Sesamoiditis may also affect baseball catchers and runners, and this can be a result of the pressure that is placed on the feet. People who are afflicted with this condition may find it difficult to straighten or bend the big toe, and it may be accompanied by swelling and pain on the sole. Treatment often starts with stopping the activity that caused the condition, and it can be beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly. If you feel you may have sesamoiditis, it is urgent that you contact a podiatrist who can help you to manage this ailment.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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.

When thinking about our body and our general health, the feet are often overlooked and ignored until considerable pain or changes occur. This habit can be especially damaging for seniors, who are more likely to experience the effects of neglecting foot health at their older age. Many aches and pains are caused by ill-fitting shoes that don’t offer support. Underlying conditions, like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, weight gain, and prior injury, can also be a cause of pain. Outside of the podiatrist’s office, seniors can maintain foot health by ensuring that their feet are kept clean and by trimming their nails to an appropriate length.

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 and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection. Symptoms of the condition include itchiness, redness, flaking, and scaly skin. Although a variety of different fungi may cause athlete’s foot, they all thrive on moisture. The condition spreads through contact with the fungi itself or contact with infected skin. Areas such as damp locker rooms, bathroom floors, showers, and swimming pools are all prime breeding areas for the fungi. If you want to prevent yourself from getting athlete’s foot, you should be sure to wash all socks, towels, bath mats, and sheets that may have come in contact with the infection. Another tip is to always make sure you wear shower shoes while walking in moist areas. Keeping your feet warm and dry will also help prevent athlete’s foot.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are 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 and ankle needs.