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Monday, 14 January 2019 00:00

Pinky Toes and Corns

If you have pain on the inner side of your pinky toe, you may have what is referred to as a corn. They can vary in size and can produce a significant amount of discomfort. This condition is typically caused by excess pressure that may originate from the type of shoe that is worn. The body manufactures this natural defense mechanism to protect the skin from pressure that is caused by friction. There may be medical conditions that may contribute to the onset of corns, and these may include hammertoe, or walking abnormalities. The easiest way to treat a corn is to remove the cause of the friction that may have caused it. Some patients claim partial relief may be found by using corn pads, or small pieces of cushioning, which may absorb some of the pressure. If you have a corn, it is advised to be under the care of a podiatrist who can properly determine the cause and offer the best treatment options for you.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Bruce Smit, DPM of Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

  • Well-fitting socks
  • Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
  • Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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 Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them

If you are experiencing pain in the toe area of your foot, you may have a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. It may generally develop as a result of the nerves, that provide sensation between the toes, becoming compressed. Typical symptoms that may develop from this ailment may be intense pain or a burning feeling and may often be noticed on the bottom of the foot that extends to the toe area, which may cause walking to become difficult. Research has shown that it may develop by wearing improper footwear, which may include specific styles of high heels. Additional reasons why Morton’s neuroma may happen may be a result of an injury that occurs to the nerves in the surrounding area, or foot conditions, which may include bunions, hammertoes, or abnormal arches. If you have pain that involves your toes, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist to learn about correct treatment techniques for Morton’s neuroma.

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
Wednesday, 02 January 2019 00:00

Where Do Stress Fractures Occur?

If running and jumping are frequent activities that you participate in, you may experience stress fractures in your feet. It may typically occur as a result of repeated impact the feet endure and will appear as tiny cracks in the bone. The bones in the feet absorb the weight of the body, and this type of fracture is most likely to appear in the lower extremities. Stress fractures may happen to individuals who suddenly increase the intensity or change the type of sport they are engaging in, in addition to having certain medical conditions that may include osteoporosis, which can weaken the bones. There are several symptoms that are associated with this condition, including severe pain and discomfort, swelling, or possible bruising. Research has shown there may be methods than can be implemented, which may prevent a stress fracture from occurring. These may include ingesting a diet that is rich in calcium, which may aid in strengthening the bones, gradually increasing the power of your workout or chosen sport, in addition to wearing shoes that fit correctly. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which will typically include having an X-ray or MRI performed, recovery may begin. If you feel you may have endured a stress fracture, it is suggested to consult with a podiatrist, to discuss correct treatment options.

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

  • Runners                                  
  • People affected with Osteoporosis
  • Tennis or basketball players
  • Gymnasts
  • High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate 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 and ankle needs.

Read more about Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Wednesday, 26 December 2018 00:00

Correct Methods of Buying Shoes That Fit Properly

Research has shown the feet may change sizes as the aging process occurs. Many people may select shoes by the size that is indicated, despite the fact they may not fit properly. It’s important to try both shoes on, which may aid in determining if these are the correct shoes to purchase. Adequate space up to a half inch above the longest toe should be present for maximum comfort while standing up. It’s important to consider the material of the shoe, which may consist of a soft and flexible consistency that ideally should match the shape of the foot. Many people try shoes on that may fit too tightly, and their expectation may be that the shoes will stretch over time. This is considered to an erroneous method of buying shoes and a properly fitted shoe will feel good at the time it is tried on. If you would like additional information on how to buy shoes that fit properly, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly guide you.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy
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
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