Blogs
Flip-Flops Might Be Bad for Your Feet
People often buy flip-flops with little knowledge on how they may affect your feet. Flip-flops do not offer much support for your feet, and they may cause plantar fasciitis. Wearing flip-flops also causes your toes to contract, which can cause hammertoe. When shopping for flip-flops you should look for durability, quality, and comfort. Heavy-duty flip flops that are made of soft leather instead of foam last extremely long and provide a lot of comfort. Thicker straps are also best when it comes to flip flops, because thin straps cut into the skin during aggressive activity.Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
Flip-Flops and Feet
When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.
How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?
· Ankle problems
· Hip problems
· Lower back problems
· Pain in the balls of the feet
· Problems with foot arches
· Changes in the way you walk
Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?
Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:
· Sprained ankles
· Blisters
· Infections
· Cuts and Scrapes
I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?
When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Man and Woman Suffer from Broken Ankles after Robbery
A group of kids robbed a 43-year-old woman and a 45-year-old man in Oldham. The man and woman suffered from fractures and broken ankles when the injury occurred on July 4th. Both victims are currently receiving treatment and the woman is expected to undergo surgery. The investigation to find the young men who committed the robbery is currently ongoing.
Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment,contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of 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 our office located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Use Tape and Bracing to Prevent Ankle Sprains
Unfortunately, ankle injuries are very common in the sport of netball. An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that connect bone to bone tear apart. Prophylactic tape and bracing can be used in order to prevent ankle sprains. There are different benefits that come along with taping your ankle compared to bracing, and vice-versa. A benefit of using tape is that it can be manipulated to fit your specific foot; however, the tape tends to loosen after about thirty minutes. A benefit of braces is that they provide extra support, but they cannot be tailored to fit a person’s foot.Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctorwill assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.
How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.
What are the Symptoms?
● Mild to moderate bruising
● Limited mobility
● Swelling
● Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)
Preventing a Sprain
● Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
● Stretching before exercises and sports
● Knowing your limits can aid in prevention
Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity. Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.
If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about ankle sprains.
Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain along the bottom of the foot. It occurs due to the inflammation of the thick band of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the toes on the bottom of the foot. Plantar fasciitis can usually be treated at home with simple remedies. One of these treatments includes calf stretching. Calf stretching is a popular treatment because it helps improve flexibility. Another treatment is ice therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Over the counter nonsteroidal medications may also help in alleviating the pain that plantar fasciitis causes.Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
· Excessive running
· Non-supportive shoes
· Overpronation
· Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
· Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
· Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
· Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Plantar Fasciitis
Walker Injures Achilles Tendon During Game
Seattle Mariners’ RHP Taijuan Walker injured his right Achilles tendon during his start against the Tampa Bay Rays. He left the game after giving up a triple to Cory Dickerson in the fourth inning. Edwin Diaz was later called from the bullpen to replace the injured Walker.Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
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 cause severe 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 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 our office in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more about Achilles tendon injuries.
Jonathan Stewart experiences Heel Pain
Carolina Panther’s running back Jonathan Stewart is currently dealing with pain resulting from a foot injury he had during the Super Bowl. He injured his foot in the middle of the first quarter of the Super Bowl when he was tackled on his ankle. The Panthers are being very cautious with Stewart because they don’t want the pain in his foot to worsen.
Anyone can wind up suffering from heel pain. For more information, contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
● Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
● Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
● Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
- Wearing ill-fitting shoes
- Wearing non-supportive shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a thing of the past.
With the advancements in technology and greater knowledge of how muscles and joints work, physical therapists can turn things around dramatically.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL.We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Age a Factor in Arthritis Flare Ups
Arthritis flares up more commonly as we age, as a chronic condition in which the joints of the body become inflamed. Arthritis can be caused by previous injury to the joints or by genes. Common forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Possible treatment options recommended by timesargus include acupuncture and Chinese herbs.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment,contact Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves inflammation of different joints in your body, such as in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. On top of this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
· Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
· Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
· Massages can help to temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Preparing your Feet before a Pedicure
According to podiatrist Dr. Jackie Sutera, there are several tips that women can follow when treating their feet for pedicures. Make sure to properly clean and moisturize your feet, keep your shoes clean through proper maintenance, invest in shoes with efficient support and cushioning, and to occasionally let your toenails breathe in between pedicures, removing the polish completely. Also avoid maintenance such as shaving on your legs and feet right before a manicure, to prevent bacterial infections being contracted through shaving cuts.
Every day foot care is very important, especially for those that are lacking the proper foot care resources. For more information about everyday foot care, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Every Day Foot Care
Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. After all, without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks. It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before, for example.
For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops.
Also, wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Why Stretching our Feet is Important
Stretching the feet is recommended especially if you have foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, or pain in the heels. Stretches recommended by Athletics Weekly involve raising and lifting your toes off of the floor and picking up marbles with your feet. These stretches are designed to improve your feet’s flexibility and balance as well as address any foot conditions that you may have.
Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Stretching Your Feet
Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.
Good ways to stretch your feet are:
● Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
● Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
● Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle
Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Treating Your Cracked Heels
As our feet lack oil glands, they are susceptible to dryness. Cracked heels are a condition of the feet in which our feet become prone to dryness and layers of dry skin accumulate over time. Some DIY treatments for curing cracked heels and dry feet include applying a mixture of rice vinegar, olive oil and salt. Soak your feet in the mixture for up to 30 minutes, repeating the process for as long as 3 weeks. Make sure to apply moisturizer after soaking your feet.
Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels are unappealing, and make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Not only may they look bad, but they can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.
How do you get them?
Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.
Promote Healing
Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief, or who suffer from chronic dry feet.
Wear Socks – wearing socks with medicated creams, helps lock in moisture so it can stay on longer.
Moisturizers – applying it both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.
Pumice Stones – these remove dead skin, and then you can massage cream onto your foot. This way the cream will be absorbed. The skin needs to be exfoliated; therefore the outer layer dead skin needs removal.
Change in Diet
Eating healthy, with a well-balanced diet, will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to what kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements will also help with skin tissue.
Most importantly seek a health professional for foot care if something is wrong or doesn’t seem to be working. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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Devin Robinson Had Surgery to Repair Stress Fracture
Devin Robinson of the Florida Gators will be out for a few more months as he continues recovering from the foot surgery he had in April to repair a stress fracture in his foot. Robison “was the team’s fifth-leading scorer (9.0 points) and third-leading rebounder (5.6 rebounds) in 2015-16.” Robinson is expected to return to play for the Gators after his recovery.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to fix a foot ailment. To learn more, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to help with the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary are:
● Removing foot deformities like bone spurs and bunions
● Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
● Cosmetic reconstruction
What Types of Surgery Are There?
The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:
● Bunionectomy for painful bunions
● Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
● Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage
Benefits of Surgery
Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.
Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Foot Amputations, a Severe Complication of Diabetes
Foot amputations are serious and on the rise, but can be easily remedied with proper assessments by your podiatrist. Foot amputations are most commonly associated with diabetes, when diabetic ulcers develop on the feet and are left untreated. This can lead to infection and the need for amputation if the wounds become severe enough. Proper preventative care is essential in managing your feet as a diabetic patient.
Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects millions of people every year. Diabetes can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, including the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.
The Importance of Caring for Your Feet
● Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
● Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
● Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.
Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels because blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.
It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Damon Jackson Suffered Broken Toe During Practice
Damon Jackson suffered a broken toe while practicing push kicks before his meeting with Georgian wrestler Levan Makashvili. “It snapped. I felt it, and as soon as it happened, I knew it was broke,” Jackson said of his broken toe. The next day Jackson found his foot swollen and badly bruised. He said that he was determined to battle through the injury.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
· throbbing pain
· swelling
· bruising on the skin and toenail
· the inability to move the toe
· toe appears crooked or disfigured
· tingling or numbness in the toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Managing Your Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s neuroma is a condition in which small lumps develop between the third and fourth toes on the nerves, leading to pain, tingling, and irritation. The pain usually occurs in the ball area of your toes. Morton’s neuroma can be caused by various factors, including ill-fitting shoes such as high heels, stress on the feet from high pressure activities, and conditions such as bunions, hammertoes, or flat feet. Treatment options for Morton’s neuroma include changing your footwear, custom orthotics, injections that will help reduce inflammation of the nerve tissues, and surgical removal.
Morton’s Neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma consult with Dr. Dean D. Hinners of Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
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 our offices located in Metropolis and Eldorado, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
