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December 2018

Wednesday, 26 December 2018 00:00

Wounds That Don't Heal Need to Be Checked

Your feet are covered most of the day. If you're diabetic, periodic screening is important for good health. Numbness is often a sign of diabetic foot and can mask a sore or wound.

Wednesday, 26 December 2018 00:00

Is Foot Therapy Effective?

Many people have experienced foot and ankle injuries and may be familiar with physical therapy as a form of positive foot therapy. It may contribute in providing the desired relief, which may be needed from uncomfortable foot conditions that may include plantar fasciitis or foot and ankle fractures. This type of therapy may be conducive in restoring joint mobility, much needed muscle strength, in addition to improvements in walking. These types of injuries may originate from overuse of the muscles and tendons in the feet and ankles. Additionally, foot therapy may be useful in recovering from foot or ankle surgery. If you have endured a serious injury to your foot, ankle, or surrounding areas, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can recommend the best form of therapy for you.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, Dr. Lee R. Stein of Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Most Common Injuries

People who are active or athletes are prone to a variety of injuries. Therefore, it is often important to take part in physical therapy in order to quickly get back on the right track. 

What to Do When Injured

Physical Therapy – This specialized treatment will focus on the affected area, speeding up recovery and the overall healing process. It is a proven method that has helped millions of people return from any injury.

During physical therapy you will undergo regimented training to get back into full form. Training is often very difficult, especially at first when the foot feels weak. Physical therapy often involves:

Basic stretching and twisting exercises – getting the feet’s mobility and flexibility up.

Massaging – the therapist will massage the injured area in order to activate the muscles and relax them.

Strengthening Exercises – this allows the muscles in the affected area to regain their full strength, a vital step towards full recovery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Foot Therapy for Sports Injuries

Many people are aware of how having healthy feet can benefit the overall health of the body. As the aging process occurs, it may become difficult to perform daily foot inspections, which may prevent specific foot conditions from occurring. When the feet are properly looked after, improved muscle strength may be noticed, walking may become easier, and having stronger feet may prevent unnecessary falling from occurring. When practicing certain preventative measures, foot ailments that may include bunions and fungal infections of the feet or toenails may be avoided. Additionally, frequent soaking of the feet may aid in properly trimming the toenails and may provide relief if an ingrown toenail is present. If you would like additional information about the importance of properly caring for elderly feet, it is advised to seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

  • Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
  • Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
  • Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
  • Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
  • Shoes that don’t fit properly
  • Pressure sores
  • Loss of circulation in legs & feet
  • Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Read more about Elderly and their Feet
Wednesday, 12 December 2018 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Monday, 10 December 2018 00:00

Two Types of Heel Spurs

A condition that is known as a heel spur may present itself in two different categories. One of them is often referred to as heel spur syndrome and is characterized by bony protrusions that form on the bottom of the heel. They may look like a small hook and will grow toward the plantar fascia. This may develop as a result of repeated tearing of the heel bone lining, in addition to straining the ligaments and muscles of the foot. Patients may develop insertional Achilles tendonitis as a form of a heel spur, and this will typically occur where the heel bone connects to the Achilles tendon. If the Achilles tendon becomes irritated and inflamed, severe pain and discomfort may often accompany this condition. This type of heel spur may form as a result of decreased ankle motion and is known to develop gradually. If you are experiencing a heel spur, it is advised to seek the expert knowledge of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

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 Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. 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 one of our offices located in Chicago, Highland Park, and Uptown, IL . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Read more about How to Treat Heel Spurs
Monday, 03 December 2018 00:00

How to Prevent Foot Injuries

People who enjoy the sport of running or who participate in jumping activities may know the importance of preventing injuries that may occur to the foot and ankle. Research has shown when the muscles are properly stretched and warmed up prior to engaging in sporting activities, the possibility of incurring this type of injury may be diminished. It is generally beneficial to wear shoes that are designed for your foot structure, and this may aid in maintaining stability and comfort. When the heels of the shoes wear out from frequent running, replacement should occur as quickly as possible, and this may prevent unwanted injuries from occurring. If a minor injury should happen, resting the foot for the proper amount of time may aid in resuming your sport of choice. If you have endured an injury to the foot or ankle, it is suggested to speak with a podiatrist, so proper treatment options can be discussed.

Foot and ankle trauma is common among athletes and the elderly. If you have concerns that you may have experienced trauma to the foot and ankle, consult with Dr. Lee R. Stein from Lake Shore Foot & Ankle, PC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Foot and ankle trauma cover a range of injuries all over the foot; common injuries include:

  • Broken bones
  • Muscle strains
  • Injuries to the tendons and ligaments
  • Stress fractures

Symptoms

Symptoms of foot and ankle injuries vary depending on the injury, but more common ones include:

  • Bruising
  • Inflammation/ Swelling
  • Pain

Diagnosis

To properly diagnose the exact type of injury, podiatrists will conduct a number of different tests. Some of these include sensation and visual tests, X-rays, and MRIs. Medical and family histories will also be taken into account.

Treatment

Once the injury has been diagnosed, the podiatrist can than offer the best treatment options for you. In less severe cases, rest and keeping pressure off the foot may be all that’s necessary. Orthotics, such as a specially made shoes, or immobilization devices, like splints or casts, may be deemed necessary. Finally, if the injury is severe enough, surgery may be necessary.

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

Read more about Foot and Ankle Trauma
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