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The Impact of Ill-Fitting Shoes on Your Foot Health

Wearing shoes that do not fit correctly can lead to a range of painful foot problems. Blisters form from constant friction, while corns develop due to pressure on bony areas. Unsupported arches may cause discomfort during walking or standing, and improper alignment can contribute to plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the heel and arch. These issues can worsen over time and affect your mobility and quality of life. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, recommend properly fitted footwear, and offer treatments such as orthotics or medication. If you are experiencing foot pain that is coming from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to find relief and protect your feet from further damage.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

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Understanding Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that commonly develop on the bottom of the foot in people with diabetes. Poor circulation and nerve damage reduce the body’s ability to heal and feel pain, which means even small injuries can turn into serious ulcers without notice. These ulcers may appear as red, swollen, or draining wounds, and often do not cause pain, making them easy to overlook. A podiatrist plays a vital role in treating and preventing diabetic foot ulcers. Treatment may include cleaning the wound, removing dead tissue called debridement, applying special dressings, and using custom footwear or orthotics to relieve pressure. In advanced cases, infection control and even surgery may be necessary. Diabetic foot ulcers precede 85 percent of diabetes-related limb losses, making early detection and treatment critical. If you have diabetes and are experiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially 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, as 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 office located in O'Fallon, and New Baden, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur Syndrome

Plantar fasciitis, also known as heel spur syndrome, is a common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, often where it connects to the heel bone. Signs include sharp pain when taking the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Causes include overuse, wearing poor footwear, or standing for long hours. Risk factors include flat feet, high arches, and obesity. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition and provide treatments such as stretching plans or custom orthotics. If you have consistent heel pain, it is suggested that you visit a who can provide appropriate relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 O'Fallon, and New Baden, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Causes and Symptoms of Toenail Fungus

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as sweaty shoes or near public pools. It often starts with a small white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail and can spread deeper, leading to thickened, discolored, and brittle nails. Symptoms include nail discoloration, including yellow, brown, or white, as well as nail thickening, crumbling edges, and sometimes a foul odor. The affected nails may become painful or difficult to trim over time. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus by examining the nail and may take a sample for lab testing to confirm the infection. Treatment options range from topical antifungal creams and medicated nail lacquers to oral antifungal medications. Severe cases may require partial or complete nail removal. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

  • Warped or oddly shaped nails
  • Yellowish nails
  • Loose/separated nail
  • Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
  • Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

If you have any questions please contact our office located in O'Fallon, and New Baden, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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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.

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