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Tuesday, 18 December 2018 00:00

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Monday, 17 December 2018 00:00

Common Causes of Blisters

Research has shown blisters to be the most common medical condition among marathon runners. This may be a result of continued friction caused from the sock or shoe that is worn while running. As the skin becomes gradually damaged, the body creates a bubble containing fluid to act as a natural protectant. Research has shown similarities between people who commonly get blisters. These similarities may include performing vigorous activities that may consist of repetitive force, such as jumping and running; shoes that may fit incorrectly; or possibly from feet that have an unusual shape. There are measures that may be taken to possibly prevent blisters, including wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit properly, applying powder in shoes and socks, or taping the feet where a blister may occur. If you have a blister that is recurring and causes pain and discomfort, speak with a podiatrist who can offer proper prevention and treatment solutions.

Blisters are prone to making everyday activities extremely uncomfortable. If your feet are hurting, 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.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters develop as a result of constantly wearing tight or ill-fitting footwear. This happens due to the constant rubbing from the shoe, which can often lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

How Do Blisters Form?

Blisters on the feet are often the result of constant friction of skin and material, usually by shoe rubbing. Walking in sandals, boots, or shoes that don’t fit properly for long periods of time can result in a blister. Having consistent foot moisture and humidity can easily lead to blister formation.

Prevention & Treatment

It is important to properly care for the affected area in order to prevent infection and ease the pain. Do not lance the blister and use a Band-Aid to provide pain relief. Also, be sure to keep your feet dry and wear proper fitting shoes. If you see blood or pus in a blister, seek assistance from a podiatrist.

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 Blisters
Monday, 10 December 2018 00:00

Possible Causes of Cracked Heels

If you suffer from cracked heels, you may be familiar with the pain and discomfort that is often associated with this condition. There are several reasons linked to developing cracked heels, including a loss of moisture in the skin as the aging process occurs, and medical conditions that may include thyroid issues and vitamin deficiencies. Additionally, people who are obese may suffer from this condition and this may be a result of the excess weight the heels must endure. Research has shown the importance of wearing shoes that offer maximum support in the heel area, which may diminish the possibility of developing this painful condition. There may be measures that can be implemented to prevent this ailment from occurring, which may include washing and drying the feet thoroughly, followed by utilizing a good moisturizing cream. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested to speak to a podiatrist to discuss additional treatment options.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

  • Invest in a good foot cream
  • Try Using Petroleum Jelly
  • Ease up on Soaps
  • Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

  • Moisturize After Showering
  • Skip a Shower
  • Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
  • Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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 Solutions for Cracked Heels
Tuesday, 04 December 2018 00:00

Before you start dancing...

 

Monday, 03 December 2018 00:00

There Are Two Types of Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy may be an option that may provide moderate relief for people who are afflicted with specific types of foot pain such as plantar fasciitis or chronic tendon conditions. This type of treatment may aid in initiating the healing response in the body and may help to heal the affected areas. Research has shown there are two types of this type of treatment that may be implemented, which are referred to as low and high energy treatment. The latter is given in one session and may require the use of general anesthesia to reduce the sensation of pain. Low energy shockwave therapy is typically administered in several treatments and may generally produce little or no pain. Many patients are satisfied with the results of this noninvasive treatment, even though it may be costly. If you are suffering from this type of foot pain, please speak with a podiatrist for addition information about shockwave therapy.

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Treating Heel Pain with Shockwave Therapy

If you have pain that is located on the inside of the ankle and foot, you may be experiencing an uncomfortable foot condition that is known as tarsal tunnel syndrome. This condition occurs when the nerves in this area of the foot become damaged and will typically cause severe inflammation. It may develop as a result of walking, running or standing for extended periods of time, or possibly from a serious injury that the foot endures. There may be effective treatment options that may provide partial relief, including performing gentle stretching exercises, resting and elevating the foot, or minimizing any foot pressure that is present. This may often include wearing shoes that are fit looser, which may aid in reducing any tightness around the foot. It is strongly suggested to speak with a podiatrist if you are experiencing this type of foot pain who can aid in properly treating this painful foot condition.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
  • Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
  • The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
  • If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tuesday, 20 November 2018 00:00

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.

Monday, 19 November 2018 00:00

Possible Causes of Morton’s Neuroma

Morton’s neuroma is the medical term described as an uncomfortable foot condition that is typically located on the bottom of the foot under the third and fourth toes. If the nerve that lies there becomes irritated and swollen, you may experience symptoms that include a tingling or burning sensation, or pain inside the ball of the foot. These symptoms may develop over time and this may depend on what type of shoes are worn or the activities that are performed. Common causes for this condition to develop may come from shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move about in, or shoes that exert excess pressure on the ball of the foot. It’s suggested to consult with a podiatrist if you feel you have developed this ailment to discuss proper treatment options.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Morton's Neuroma
Monday, 12 November 2018 00:00

Hammertoe May Be Preceded by a Bunion

If you notice a sizable bump on the second toe of your foot, you may have what can develop into a hammertoe. Many people experience a bunion first, and this will typically occur on the side of the big toe. As this condition develops, the toes push against each other causing the middle toe to bend downward, and this may cause pain and discomfort. Research has shown this condition may be more apt to develop in people who are experiencing arthritis in the bones of the feet. There may be preventive measures to halt this ailment from happening, including wearing shoes that have adequate room for the toes to move about it in. Moderate relief may be found by performing specific exercises that can stretch the toes. One example would be to try soaking the feet in warm water daily, followed by pointing the toes. This may benefit in stretching the tendons of the toe. If you feel you are developing this condition, please consult with a podiatrist for treatment options that are correct for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
Tuesday, 06 November 2018 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

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