January 2021

Heel pain can be debilitating, and it has a variety of causes.  Because the heel is the first part of the foot to hit the ground when walking, it can bear the weight of the entire body causing pain during prolonged periods of walking and standing. Plantar fasciitis is the most common form of heel pain. This occurs when the plantar fascia, the ligament running along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed and aggravated. Plantar fasciitis pain is at its worst in the morning or after rest, and it usually subsidies throughout the day. Heel spurs, which are abnormal growths of bone on the heel, can also lead to heel pain. These form when calcium deposits build up on the back of the heel. If you are struggling with heel pain, it is important to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment method.  

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact John Killough, DPM of Regional Foot Center. 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 Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Arthritis causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints. There are many different types of arthritis, but the types of arthritis that most often affect the feet are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout. Arthritis progressively worsens over time, but the earlier it is detected, the sooner measures can be taken to slow its progression and preserve the health of your feet. The earliest signs of arthritis are joint stiffness, pain, swelling, and warmth. Sometimes the joints may begin to appear deformed or develop bone spurs. If you suspect that you may have arthritis in your feet, please consult with a podiatrist, who can help you manage this condition. 

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments in the ankle tear. They are particularly common among athletes and can cause pain and swelling in the affected leg that make moving the ankle and bearing weight very difficult. There are two types of ankle sprains. In an eversion ankle sprain, the ankle rolls outward and tears the deltoid ligaments. In an inversion sprain, the ankle rolls inward while the foot is twisted upwards. Inversion ankle sprains are more common than eversion ankle sprains. Ankle sprains are also classified by where in the ankle they occur, and the extent of the damage. If you suspect that you have sprained your ankle it is recommended that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

An injury to the growth plate in the heel may indicate a condition that is known as Sever’s disease. It generally affects children and young teenagers who participate in sporting activities. The heel can become inflamed, which can cause severe pain and discomfort. Mild relief may be found when the activity that caused the injury is temporarily stopped, and walking patterns may be changed. It may help to wear custom made orthotics if Sever’s disease is severe, and some patients find it necessary to take pain medication. If your child complains of heel pain, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Sever's disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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