June 2022

There is no mistaking heel pain when it happens. It can be a gradual occurrence, and many people ignore the first pangs of heel pain. A common reason people experience heel pain is from a condition known as plantar fasciitis. It affects the plantar fascia, which is located on the sole of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. This band of tissue can become inflamed for several reasons, including wearing shoes that do not fit correctly and standing on hard surfaces for most of the day. Heel pain, often the first symptom of plantar fasciitis, can become severe if not treated promptly. Patients have found mild relief when the affected foot is elevated because pressure on the heel is reduced. There are specific stretches that can help the pain of plantar fasciitis. An effective stretch is done by standing on a step, followed by lowering the heels one at a time until a gentle stretch is felt. If you have with heel pain and think it may be caused by plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you speak with a podiatrist as quickly as possible so the correct treatment can promptly begin.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, 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.

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 offices located in Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Seniors may be able to remain independent longer when fall prevention techniques are incorporated into their daily routine. These can include performing exercise programs that can help to strengthen the body as well as balancing stretches at home. Additionally, many elderly people make changes to their living environment, including removing frayed rugs and improving lighting in the household. Other effective methods to prevent falling consist of having a grab bar installed in the toilet and shower areas, and it can help to use a non-slip bath mat. It is suggested that physical and eye examinations be performed regularly, and this can help to update existing medication and eyeglass prescriptions. Falling episodes may be lessened when the correct shoes are worn and clutter in the home is cleared. Falling can impact the feet negatively so it is important to learn how to prevent a fall from occurring. If you would like more information about how to prevent falls, please consider speaking with a podiatrist.

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 John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor 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 offices located in Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

The noticeable symptom with a foot condition that is known as hammertoe affects the second toe. It is considered to be a deformity, and a muscle imbalance causing the toe to bend downward. Additionally, corns can form on top of the bone that is bent. This can be a result of the pressure that is endured as the top of the toes rub against shoes. Hammertoe can happen from genetic reasons, or possibly from wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. Some patients have high arches, and this can contribute to developing hammertoe. If the condition is severe, surgery may be necessary in helping to permanently straighten the toes. It is considered to be an unsightly foot condition, and it may be difficult to walk. If you have a hammertoe, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. 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 Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce sufficient insulin or use it properly, which causes blood sugar levels to rise above normal. Diabetes can affect the health of the feet as well as many other parts of the body. Uncontrolled high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels, reduce the blood flow to feet, and have serious consequences. Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that affects the feet and legs and that many of those with diabetes develop. Such nerve damage can cause tingling and numbness in the feet, and one might not feel pain from a foot problem - a key warning sign that something is amiss in the body. Infections can arise, and if not tended to and healed, can lead to gangrene where tissue dies from lack of blood flow. Another complication of diabetes is peripheral vascular disease, a circulation disorder that limits blood flow to the legs and feet. Healing takes longer with inadequate blood flow, putting one at risk for infections. It is important for those with diabetes to practice good foot care. Beyond taking prescribed diabetes medications and monitoring blood sugar levels, diabetics should keep their feet clean, dry, and moisturized, wear well-fitting shoes, examine feet regularly for any cuts, sores, or blisters, maintain a healthy body weight, and exercise regularly. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your team of doctors so they can help you catch any foot problems you may not feel or know about, treat any issues you are aware of, and help you maintain healthy feet.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, 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.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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 needs.