Items filtered by date: December 2024

Foot care is critical for individuals with diabetes, as high blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage and poor circulation, increasing the risk of foot problems. Regular inspection of the feet is important to detect any cuts, blisters, or infections early. It is recommended to wash the feet daily with warm water and mild soap, ensuring they are thoroughly dried, especially between the toes. Moisturizing the feet can prevent dry skin, but individuals should avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent fungal infections. Wearing proper footwear is essential to protect the feet from injury. Shoes should be well-fitted and cushioned to avoid pressure points. It is also important to trim toenails carefully to avoid ingrown nails. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help manage foot health and prevent complications associated with diabetes.

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 Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. 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 Princeton, Peru, and Mendota, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Basketball players frequently experience ankle sprains due to the physical demands of the sport. The most common type is a lateral ankle sprain. This type of ankle sprain occurs when the foot rolls inward, a movement called inversion, which stretches or tears the ligaments on the outer side of the ankle. High ankle sprains, though less common, are more severe. This ankle sprain involves the syndesmosis, a group of connective tissues that holds the tibia and fibula bones together just above the ankle. High ankle sprains are caused by a twisting motion that separates these bones. Medial ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls outward, termed eversion, which stresses the deltoid ligament on the inside of the ankle. All types of ankle sprains can cause swelling, pain, and instability. A podiatrist can order digital imaging tests to determine the type of sprain, assess its severity, and create a treatment plan to restore ankle function. If you have ankle pain after playing basketball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

A broken ankle can cause immediate and severe pain, along with visible bruising, swelling, and sometimes joint deformity. In some cases, the ankle may appear misshapen or out of alignment, and you may be unable to bear weight on the injured foot. The most common causes of a broken ankle include falls, sports injuries, or accidents that involve twisting or rolling the ankle. Treatment for a broken ankle typically includes elevation along with immobilization, using a cast or brace. If the fracture is more severe or displaced, surgery may be needed to realign the bones and secure them with pins, plates, or screws. Proper diagnosis and treatment are key to ensure the ankle heals correctly and to prevent long-term complications like instability or arthritis. Visiting a podiatrist can help you get the right care. If you suspect you have broken your ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

A lump on the toe can arise for any number of reasons and may vary in size, location, and texture. Probably the most common cause of a lump on the toe is a bunion, caused when the bones of the big or little toe shift out of place. Another cause, termed hallux rigidus, involves stiffness and bony growths on top of the big toe due to arthritis or wear and tear. Softer lumps, such as digital mucous cysts, are fluid-filled sacs that often form near joints and may result from injury or wearing ill-fitting shoes. Conditions like Morton’s neuroma, a nerve-related issue under the toes, or calluses and corns from pressure and friction, can also lead to lumps. Each condition requires a specific approach for relief and prevention of further complications. A podiatrist can provide an accurate diagnosis of the lump or bump on your toe. Treatment options include orthotics or minor surgical procedures depending on the cause. Guidance on footwear choices to alleviate discomfort may be offered. If you notice an unusual lump or bump on a toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve, which runs along the inner ankle. This nerve travels through a narrow space called the tarsal tunnel, and when it is compressed, it can lead to symptoms like pain, tingling, burning, or numbness in the foot and ankle. The discomfort may radiate from the ankle into the sole of the foot and is often worse after prolonged standing, walking, or physical activity. Causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include repetitive strain, injury, flat feet, or conditions like arthritis that add pressure on the nerve. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, nerve conduction tests, and imaging. Treatment can range from rest to orthotics to reduce strain. In severe cases, surgery may be needed to relieve pressure on the nerve and alleviate symptoms. If you have symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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