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Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Why Your Feet Feel Itchy

Itchy feet can be caused by several conditions that affect the skin. Psoriasis and eczema may lead to redness, irritation, and persistent itching. Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that often causes peeling and discomfort. Dry skin is another frequent cause, especially in colder weather or with inadequate hydration. Risk factors include poor hygiene, tight footwear, and underlying health conditions. A podiatrist can identify the exact cause, recommend targeted treatments, and provide guidance to prevent recurrence. Addressing symptoms early can improve comfort and protect skin health. If your feet are irritated, itchy, or uncomfortable, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer effective relief and treatment remedies.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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A Bump Behind the Heel

A bony enlargement that forms on the back of the heel, close to where the Achilles tendon attaches, is called Haglund’s deformity. It can create pressure and irritation, especially when the heel rubs against the stiff back of a shoe. The area may look swollen, red, or raised. It may feel sore, tender, or painful while walking. Some people also develop inflammation in the nearby soft tissue or Achilles tendon. The bump might form due to inherited foot structure, high arches, tight calf muscles, or shoes that press against the heel. A podiatrist can examine the heel, check tendon movement, and order imaging to evaluate the size of the bony enlargement. Treatments include shoe changes, padding, heel lifts, and anti-inflammatory care. Targeted exercises might also be suggested. If heel pain continues, surgery may be considered to remove the excess bone. If you have a painful bump on your heel, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnose and appropriate treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you 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 condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Heel Pain

How Your Feet Change With Age

As the body ages, the feet often go through noticeable changes that can affect comfort and mobility. Toenails may become thicker, more brittle, or discolored, making them harder to trim and maintain. The skin on the feet may also become drier or thinner, due to changes in circulation, which can increase the risk of cracks or irritation. These changes may lead to discomfort during walking or standing. Risk factors include reduced blood flow, underlying health conditions, and long-term wear on the feet. Paying attention to daily foot care becomes more important. A podiatrist can monitor these changes, provide treatment, and recommend supportive care to keep feet healthy. If you notice changes in your feet with age, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle conditions and address problems as they arise.

If you need your feet checked, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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When Narrow Shoes Lead to Foot Pain

Proper shoe fitting is essential for maintaining foot health, especially when shoes are too narrow and place excess pressure on the toes and forefoot. Tight footwear can compress the toes, leading to irritation and redness. It also can contribute to formation of bunions or nerve pain like Morton's neuroma. The foot may develop overlapping toes or areas of thickened skin where friction occurs. Discomfort may worsen throughout the day and make walking or standing difficult. Causes include choosing fashion over fit, changes in foot shape, or not accounting for natural swelling. A podiatrist can assess foot size, shape, and gait to recommend properly fitting footwear and supportive options. Treatment may also include padding, orthotics, and guidance on selecting shoes with adequate width, depth, and cushioning. Choosing the correct shoe size and avoiding narrow styles can reduce pressure and prevent long-term problems. If you have foot pain related to shoe fit, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about How to Get a Proper Shoe Fit
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