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Douglas Pacaccio, DPM
Thomas Nordquist, DPM

September 2020

Monday, 28 September 2020 00:00

Possible Foot Pain From Wearing Flip Flops

Many people enjoy the simplicity of wearing flip flops during the warm months, despite the possible foot damage they may cause. The majority of these types of shoes are constructed without arch or heel support, and this may cause considerable damage to the feet. The toes may become strained from grasping the front of the shoe as it stays on the foot. Additionally, heel pain may develop from a lack of cushioning, and blisters may form if flip flops are frequently worn. Please consult with a podiatrist who can inform you of the possible dangers of wearing flip flops.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

  • Ankle problems
  • Hip problems
  • Lower back problems
  • Pain in the balls of the feet
  • Problems with foot arches
  • Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

  • Sprained ankles
  • Blisters
  • Infections
  • Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

Read more about Flipping Out About Flip Flops
Monday, 21 September 2020 00:00

Possible Causes of Bunions

The medical condition that is referred to as arthritis may contribute to the development of bunions. Additionally, bunions can occur due to genetic factors, or from wearing shoes that do not have enough room for the toes to move freely in. Bunions are defined as bony growths that form on the side of the big toe and can cause pain and discomfort. Mild relief may be found when a protective pad is worn over the bunion, and larger shoes may need to be purchased. An X-ray may be performed to determine the severity of the bunion, and if it is large, and affects daily activities, surgery may be necessary for permanent removal. If you have developed a bunion, please consult with a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

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

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sycamore, and Yorkville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Bunions
Tuesday, 15 September 2020 00:00

Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Monday, 14 September 2020 00:00

What Type of Flat Feet Do I Have?

If your feet are lacking the typical arch, you most likely have a condition known as flat feet. There are different types of flat feet that can affect a person. Flexible flat foot, one of the most common types of flat feet, is characterized by lacking an arch only when pressure is applied. When pressure isn’t applied, a flexible flat foot will have an arch, which disappears while standing. Semi-flexible flat feet will have slight to no arch with or without pressure, and then flatten out once standing. A rigid flat foot will have no sign of an arch whether standing or not. To properly diagnose which type of flat feet you have, please consult with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

  • Pain around the heel or arch area
  • Trouble standing on the tip toe
  • Swelling around the inside of the ankle
  • Flat look to one or both feet
  • Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Read more about Flatfoot
Tuesday, 08 September 2020 00:00

How Are Stress Fractures Diagnosed?

A common reason for stress fractures of the feet to occur is from repetitive overuse. Many runners can experience this type of injury, and the bones in the center of the foot can be at risk. These types of fractures gradually occur as small breaks in the bone. The common symptoms that many patients can experience often include pain and discomfort in the front of the foot, tenderness surrounding the affected area, and it may appear to be bruised. Having an MRI taken is generally an effective method of diagnosing a stress fracture, and the average healing time is approximately six to eight weeks. It may be beneficial to perform certain types of stretches to promote healing, and many patients find it helpful to wear a walking boot. If you have pain in your foot, and think it may be a stress fracture, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot and Ankle Surgeons, Inc. . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

  • Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
  • Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
  • Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
  • Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Sycamore, and Yorkville, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle
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