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Tuesday, 23 May 2023 00:00

A heel spur is also known as a calcaneal spur and is a bony growth formed by calcium deposits on the underside of the foot. They can have a pointy, hooked, or shelf-like shape. Heel spurs are the body’s way of trying to protect the foot from another foot condition, such as plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs can also arise from arthritis, overuse, obesity, and improper footwear. These growths do not always cause pain but when they do, the heel can be tender, with dull or sharp pain when standing. Usually, it is the underlying condition that causes the pain. Women are more likely to get heel spurs than men. A diagnosis will consist of a visual examination of the foot and understanding where the pain arises with movement, as well as an X-ray, which will highlight the bony growth. If you have a heel spur that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss treatment options of the spur itself or the underlying condition which may be causing it.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about Heel Spurs
Tuesday, 16 May 2023 00:00

When an individual is pregnant, they might notice that the size of their feet has significantly increased. This is due to the fact that the hormone known as relaxin is released during pregnancy, which can cause the feet to expand and get larger. New mothers often ask how common it is for a woman’s feet to increase during pregnancy. The answer is that 60% of women have seen their feet get longer, and 70% of women have seen their feet get wider. Therefore, it is a relatively common phenomenon. Increasing foot size is just one of many different potential changes that your body might go through during pregnancy. If you are pregnant or planning to be, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an appointment.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

  • Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
  • Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
  • Wear shoes with good arch support
  • Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
  • Elevate feet if you experience swelling
  • Massage your feet
  • Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the 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 needs.

Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health
Tuesday, 09 May 2023 00:00

Warts are caused by a virus. When they develop on the soles of the feet, they may are termed plantar warts. They grow inward as a result of the weight the feet must bear, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. Warts are contagious and are caused by the human papillomavirus, abbreviated as HPV. This virus lives in warm and moist environments, and it can be transmitted between people by sharing shoes, towels, or socks. It is beneficial to wear appropriate shoes while in areas such as public swimming pools, shower room floors, and similar places. Many people choose to wear flip flops or water shoes, and it is helpful to refrain from walking barefoot. A plantar wart is a hard, thick patch of skin, and it often has dark spots in the center. They can cause difficulty in walking, and many patients may alter their gait, which may help to reduce existing pain. If you have a wart on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can offer you one of various treatments for plantar warts.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

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.

Read more about All About Plantar Warts
Saturday, 06 May 2023 00:00

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.

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