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June 2022

Tuesday, 28 June 2022 00:00

Common Symptoms of Morton’s Neuroma

Research has indicated that the foot condition known as Morton’s neuroma is generally simple to diagnose. The common symptoms that many people experience with this ailment can include a tingling sensation between the second and third toes, or the fourth and fifth toes. It may begin after wearing specific types of shoes, or from walking or standing for an extended period of time. Many people can develop this condition from wearing high heels. This can be a result of a lack of adequate space for the toes to move freely in. A clicking feeling and sound may be felt in the ball of the foot, and it can feel uncomfortable. Many people often equate this feeling with the sensation of stepping on a marble, or having an out of place seam from a sock. Additionally, the toes can separate with a large Morton’s neuroma, and medical attention is needed. The toes may become numb, and it can be quite painful to walk. If you have any of these symptoms, it is advised that you place yourself under the care of a podiatrist who can use various conservative methods, or possibly even perform surgery, to treat Morton’s neuroma. 

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors 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 O'Fallon, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Tuesday, 21 June 2022 00:00

What Exactly Is a Heel Spur?

Patients who have heel spurs may describe the feeling as stepping on a thumb tack. The pain may be worse in the morning upon arising and it is often difficult to walk. A heel spur is defined as a bony protrusion that develops on the bottom of the heel and can be diagnosed by having an X-ray performed. Common symptoms that many patients experience can include pain that travels from the heel to the lower leg and the affected heel may feel warm. It can gradually develop as a result of standing on hard surfaces for extended periods or from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Many people who have heel spurs also have an inflamed plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that connects the heels to the toes. These two conditions have similar symptoms and need to be properly diagnosed for effective treatment to begin. Mild relief may come from taking frequent breaks and elevating the feet, and it can help to massage the heel. Different types of shoes may need to be purchased that can accommodate the heel spur and provide additional comfort. If you have a heel spur, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer the best treatment options for you which may include surgery.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in O'Fallon, IL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

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Research has shown that plantar warts affect approximately ten percent of the population. They are warts that develop on the sole of the foot, and grow inward as a result of the weight the feet endure on a daily basis. They are generally caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), and can enter the body through small cuts in the skin on the feet. They are prone to developing on the ball and heel of the foot, and are considered to be hyperkeratotic eruptions. Plantar warts can cause severe pain and discomfort, and aggressive treatment may be necessary to relieve the pain while walking. Some patients have to alter their style of walking if they have a plantar wart, and their posture may be affected. If you have a wart on the bottom of your foot, please seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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

Read more about What Are Plantar Warts?

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.

Tuesday, 07 June 2022 00:00

Why High Heels Can Cause Foot Pain

High heels came into being for some practical and vanity reasons. Men wore them so their feet fit better in stirrups when horseback riding and women wore them because they made their feet look smaller, their bodies look taller, and their legs more elongated and toned in appearance. When high heels are worn, the foot is put at a forward angle causing one to walk on their toes and changing body biomechanics, posture, and gait. This leads to a greater risk of injury and the development of painful chronic foot conditions. The higher the heel and the longer the wear, the greater the risks. When wearing high heels, one’s body struggles to stay balanced and various painful foot conditions can develop as a result, such as plantar fasciitis. If you want to continue wearing high heels, try to alternate them with other footwear, vary heel heights of shoes, and stretch calf muscles so they will not be shortened and tight. If your foot pain does not resolve, consult with a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, 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.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

  • Ankle Joints
  • Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
  • Balls of the Feet
  • Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
  • Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

  • Corns
  • Calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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

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