Your feet play a crucial role in your daily activities, especially at work. Whether you're in a physically demanding job or spend hours at a desk, it's essential to prioritize foot protection. It is beneficial to invest in high-quality, sturdy footwear that provides ample support and fits well. Steel-toed boots are essential to wear while working in hazardous environments. Many people choose to wear customized orthotic inserts which can enhance comfort, reduce fatigue, and prevent injuries by providing additional arch support. Additionally, be aware of slippery surfaces, sharp objects, or potential hazards that could lead to accidents. If your job involves standing or walking for long periods, taking regular breaks can help the feet to rest and avoid discomfort. Performing foot and ankle exercises can strengthen the muscles and increase flexibility, reducing the risk of strains and sprains. By prioritizing foot protection, you can maintain your overall well-being and ensure optimal performance throughout your workday. If you would like more information about foot protection during the work day, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with useful tips.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

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.

Read more about How to Handle a Long Work Day on Your Feet

Wearing flip-flops can have significant effects on feet, leading to various issues. The lack of arch support and minimal cushioning can cause strain on the arches, leading to conditions like plantar fasciitis or flat feet. The lack of foot stability and constant gripping of toes to keep the flip-flops in place can result in toe cramps and hammertoes. Additionally, flip-flops offer little protection, making feet vulnerable to injuries like cuts, scrapes, and stubbed toes. To mitigate these effects, opt for supportive and cushioned footwear when engaging in prolonged walking or physical activities. If you experience foot pain or discomfort from wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can address any foot and ankle issues you may have and provide suitable footwear recommendations that promote foot health and overall comfort.

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.

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Gout is defined as a foot condition that can cause severe pain and discomfort. It often targets the joints in the big toe and is caused by an excess level of uric acid. Eating foods that have high levels of purines may cause uric acid levels to rise and convert to crystals that lodge in the joints of the toes. There are trigger foods that can be avoided in patients who have gout, and this may reduce the number of painful gout attacks. Red meat can fall into this category, and frequently eating this food can increase the chances of getting gout. Many people think honey is an alternative to processed sugar, however, it also contains a large amount of uric acid. There are certain types of seafood that have high levels of purines. These can consist of shellfish, sardines, anchovies, and scallops, and gout patients are advised to eat infrequent or small amounts of these types of seafood. If you would like more information about what type of foods can trigger gout attacks, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with healthy food choices to choose from.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

  • Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
  • Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
  • Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
  • Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

  • Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
  • Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
  • Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
  • Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
  • Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
  • Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment 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.

Read more about Gout
Tuesday, 18 July 2023 00:00

Morton’s Neuroma and High Heels

Some people feel the sensation of having a small pebble in their sock or shoe, and this can be a symptom of the foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma. It can develop as a result of wearing shoes that do have enough room in the toe area to move freely in. High heels can fall into this category and can affect women who frequently wear this type of shoe. This ailment affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes and can cause severe pain and discomfort. The nerve can become compressed and irritated, and mild relief may be felt when the shoes that are worn have a wider toe box. This condition will not improve when high heels are consistently worn, and surgery may be necessary to remove or repair the nerve. Patients may find some relief when anti-inflammatory medications are taken and the affected foot is massaged. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat Moton’s neuroma. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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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Wednesday, 12 July 2023 00:00

Are You Suffering From Ingrown Toenails?

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to more serious concerns, such as an infection. Knowing proper nail care can help in the prevention of an ingrown toenail. Give us a call, and get treated!

Tuesday, 11 July 2023 00:00

Why Are My Feet Swollen?

The feet are the foundation of the body and are capable of providing adequate balance and support. There are several bones, muscles and tendons that each foot has, and all work together to provide mobility. Patients who stand for long periods may develop edema, which is the medical term for swollen feet. Gravity can cause the blood to pool in the lower legs and feet, and shoes can become tighter. Swollen feet may also be prevalent among pregnant women and people who eat foods with excessive amounts of salt. Swollen feet may be reduced when frequent walking is done and salty foods are reduced. It is helpful to drink plenty of water daily, in addition to wearing compression socks or stockings. Being obese may lead to developing swollen feet, and it is beneficial to eat healthy foods. This may help to reduce or eliminate swollen feet. If your feet have become swollen, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can correctly diagnose and offer treatment options for this problem.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

  • Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
  • Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
  • Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
  • Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
  • Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.


 

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Monday, 30 March 2020 00:00

How to Tell If You’ve Developed Gout

Gout, an inflammatory form of arthritis, can be recognized by observing extreme swelling and redness on the side of one’s big toe. Other common symptoms may include a tender sensation when the affected area is touched, as well as a sharp, burning, or hot pain on the side of the big toe. Gout can be caused by high levels of uric acid and poor blood circulation. This condition is often inherited, and is common among diabetic patients, people who have high blood pressure or who are obese. Gout can be managed and treated by drinking plenty of water, icing the affected area, changing your diet to reduce purine levels, and by wearing compression socks. For a proper diagnosis and recommended plan for treatment, it’s suggested thank you consult with a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

Read more about Gout
Tuesday, 04 July 2023 00:00

Exercises for Flat Feet

Children are naturally born with flat feet, and by the time they are teenagers, the arch usually develops normally. However, there are various circumstances where the arches either do not develop or they fall. These include injuries, obesity, genetics, and arthritis. Those with neurological or muscular diseases may also be more prone to having flat feet. Wearing orthotics or arch supports, and performing certain stretches, can reduce pain from fallen arches or help correct them. Examples of exercises that might help raise, strengthen, and lengthen the arches are heel stretches and tennis or golf ball rolls. Stretch your heels by standing with your hands resting on a wall at eye level. Keep one leg forward and the other extended behind you. Press both heels into the floor. Then bend one leg at a time toward the wall with the opposite heel pressed into the floor and hold this position for 30 seconds. Repeat on each side four times. For the tennis or golf ball roll, sit in a chair with a ball under one foot. Keep a straight spine and roll the ball under your foot, focusing on the arch. Do this for two to three minutes and then change feet. If you have flat feet and they are causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with additional exercise options and further treatment that is right for you.

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.

Read more about Flatfoot

An ingrown toenail is easily distinguishable and is defined as a toenail that grows into the skin instead of over it. An ingrown toenail often causes severe pain and discomfort, and it can become infected. This foot condition can happen for a variety of reasons. Common causes can include wearing shoes that are too tight and trimming the toenails incorrectly. There are some patients who have family members with ingrown toenails, which may increase the risk of developing this ailment. Temporary relief may be found when the affected nail is soaked in warm water. This can soften the skin enough so that a small piece of cotton can be used while gently pulling the nail away from the skin. Permanent relief is often found with medical attention. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can provide appropriate treatment options, which may include minor surgery.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. 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 occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

  • Bacterial infections
  • Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
  • Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
  • Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
  • Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Because ingrown toenails are not something found outside of shoe-wearing cultures, going barefoot as often as possible will decrease the likeliness of developing ingrown toenails. Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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.

Read more about Ingrown Toenails
Tuesday, 20 June 2023 00:00

Relief for Sore Feet

Given the importance of our feet in getting through life comfortably and maintaining independence, it is wise to practice good foot care. There are things that can be done on a regular basis that can rejuvenate the feet. These can include taking a warm foot bath to relieve sore, aching muscles, and performing stretching and strengthening exercises to prevent cramping. Additionally, regular stretching may improve flexibility and foot strength. Having foot massages done may help to relieve soreness and improve circulation. Wearing shoes that fit well and are appropriate for the activities that are practiced can also help to keep the feet stable while standing and walking, in addition to possibly eliminating pain. If you have injured your foot or you are experiencing chronic foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can diagnose the reason, and provide correct treatment options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Read more about Foot Pain
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