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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 and ankle 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 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.

 

Read more about Treating Toenail Fungus

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.

Causes of Falls in Seniors

Millions of Americans aged 65 and older visit the emergency department each year after a fall, and problems with feet and ankles are often key contributors. Issues such as weakened foot muscles, stiff toes, limited ankle range, numbness, or pain reduce balance and raise the risk of stumbling. A podiatrist can evaluate foot alignment, joint mobility and nerve function, then recommend supportive footwear, custom orthotic inserts or shoe modifications to increase stability. They can also design exercise programs to improve foot strength and ankle flexibility, as well as test the soles of your shoes and fit to ensure safe traction. Early identification of issues like bunions or sensory loss allows a podiatrist to intervene before balance is compromised. Focusing on foot and ankle health, such as improving toe grip, ankle motion and proper shoe choice, helps lower the risk of falls. If you are a senior who has fallen or is at risk of doing so, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for preventative guidance or treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

  • Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
  • Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
  • Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
  • Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
  • Utilizing a walker or cane
  • Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
  • Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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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Swimming for Stronger and Healthier Feet

Swimming is an excellent low-impact exercise that can help improve a variety of foot conditions by reducing pressure on joints while promoting movement and circulation. Conditions such as Achilles tendonitis, bunions, metatarsalgia, and plantar fasciitis can benefit from swimming due to the gentle resistance and support water provides. The buoyancy helps relieve stress on the feet while strengthening surrounding muscles and improving flexibility. Swimming also enhances blood flow, which aids in reducing inflammation and supporting healing. A podiatrist can help determine if swimming is suitable for your specific condition and recommend complementary treatments or exercises. If you are managing chronic foot pain or recovering from injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to learn how swimming can become a valuable part of your treatment and rehabilitation plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Ankle & Foot Surgeons. Our doctors 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 O'Fallon, and New Baden, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Foot Pain
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