Items filtered by date: November 2024

Tuesday, 26 November 2024 00:00

Causes and Associated Conditions of Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a deformity in which one or more toes bend downward at the middle joint, causing a claw-like appearance. This condition can result from a variety of causes, including muscle imbalances, poor footwear choices, or inherited traits. In some cases, hammertoe is associated with underlying health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, where joint inflammation can lead to deformities in the toes. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a genetic disorder that affects peripheral nerves, can also cause muscle weakness and imbalance, contributing to the development of hammertoe. Another common cause is an elongated second metatarsal bone, which can lead to abnormal pressure on the toes, causing them to bend. Symptoms of hammertoe include pain, difficulty walking, and corns or calluses forming on the affected toes. If you have developed a hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who may guide you toward wearing corrective footwear, splints, or, in severe cases, surgery to realign the toe.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. 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 offices located in Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about What Are Hammertoes?
Tuesday, 19 November 2024 00:00

Causes of Heel Pain While Walking

Heel pain while walking is a common issue that can stem from various causes. One of the most prevalent reasons is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Overuse from excessive walking or running can also contribute to heel pain, particularly in individuals who do high-impact activities. Other factors include wearing improper footwear, which may lack support or cushioning, and conditions like Achilles tendinitis or heel spurs. To find relief, it is important to rest and reduce activity levels, allowing the heel to heal. Stretching exercises for the calves and plantar fascia can improve flexibility. Additionally, using supportive footwear or custom orthotics can provide the necessary support. Heel pain can cause difficulty in completing daily tasks, and it is suggested that a podiatrist is consulted who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

  • Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
  • Wearing non-supportive shoes
  • Weight change           
  • Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Tuesday, 12 November 2024 00:00

A Guide to Running Shoes for All Runners

Selecting the right running shoe is essential for enhancing performance and preventing injuries. First, consider the type of running you will be doing, whether it is road running, trail running, or track work, as each requires different features. The shoe should fit snugly but not painfully, allowing for about a thumb's width of space between the toe and the end of the shoe. Look for adequate support, especially if you have specific foot needs, such as pronation control. Flexibility is important for natural foot movement, while durability ensures that the shoe can withstand the rigors of regular use. Cushioning is vital for absorbing impact and providing comfort during longer runs. If you enjoy running and have endured a foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you treatment solutions, and guide you on how to choose proper running shoes.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

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Tuesday, 05 November 2024 00:00

Lingering Pain From a Broken Toe

Experiencing persistent pain in a broken toe even after a year can be frustrating and concerning. Several factors may contribute to this ongoing discomfort. One common cause is a delayed healing process, which can occur due to insufficient blood supply or inadequate immobilization during recovery. Misdiagnosis can also play a significant role, as an associated injury may hinder proper healing. Additionally, nerve damage is another possibility, as trauma to the toe can affect nearby nerves, leading to chronic pain or sensitivity. Lastly, post-traumatic arthritis may develop as a result of the initial injury, causing inflammation and stiffness in the joint. If you have broken your toe and are experiencing lingering pain, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can check the diagnosis, offer advanced treatment, and monitor your foot health.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Throbbing pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising on the skin and toenail
  • The inability to move the toe
  • Toe appears crooked or disfigured
  • Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Read more about What to Know About a Broken Toe
Monday, 04 November 2024 00:00

We Can Treat Your Foot or Ankle Pain

Foot or ankle pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life and can occur due to several different conditions. Pain can also be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition, which is why you should seek professional help as soon as you notice any abnormalities in your feet.

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