Rock climbing, an exhilarating sport enjoyed by many, can also pose risks of foot injuries, both acute and chronic. Acute injuries often occur due to sudden trauma or overuse during climbs. Common acute foot injuries include sprains, strains, fractures, and abrasions, often resulting from slips, falls, or improper foot placements. Climbing shoes, designed for precision and grip, can exacerbate foot issues if they fit too tightly or lack proper support. Wearing ill-fitting shoes may lead to blisters, corns, or ingrown toenails, while prolonged use can contribute to conditions like plantar fasciitis or tendonitis. If you participate in rock climbing and have sustained a foot injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment. These healthcare professionals can also provide guidance on proper shoe fit, and recommend supportive inserts, and custom-made orthotics.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains 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 and ankle needs.

Treatment for hammertoe, a condition where the toe bends abnormally, varies depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment can range from non-invasive approaches to surgical intervention. Initially, a podiatrist may recommend conservative methods, such as wearing roomier, more comfortable shoes to accommodate the deformity and using custom orthotic devices to relieve pain. Stretching exercises may also be recommended to strengthen toe muscles and improve flexibility. For more persistent cases, where the toe becomes rigid or pain is severe, surgical options may be considered. Surgery aims to straighten the toe, and this may involve removing a portion of the bone or realigning the tendons and ligaments. Post-surgery, patients often go through some rehabilitation to restore function and mobility. Consulting with a podiatrist about hammertoe is suggested to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific needs. 

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM of Illinois. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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.

Joint replacement for ankle arthritis is a surgical option for those suffering from severe arthritis in their ankle. The point of the replacement surgery is to relieve pain and restore the function of the ankle. Arthritis is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. During ankle joint replacement surgery, also known as ankle arthroplasty, the damaged parts of the ankle bones are removed and replaced with artificial components. These components mimic the natural movement of the ankle, offering patients the chance to regain mobility. This procedure is considered when less invasive treatments have failed to provide relief. It is also considered mostly for older, less active patients. Joint replacement can significantly reduce pain and improve the ankle's function, making it a valuable treatment option for those with advanced ankle arthritis. If you are suffering from arthritis in the ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether ankle replacement surgery is right for you. 

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

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.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation or lateral plantar neuritis, is a condition where the cuboid bone in the outer midfoot becomes displaced. This displacement can occur due to trauma, overuse, or sudden twisting of the foot. Symptoms typically include pain and tenderness on the outer side of the foot, especially during weight-bearing activities like walking or running. Patients may also experience some difficulty moving the foot sideways. Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome involves a physical examination by a podiatrist, often including specific maneuvers to reproduce the pain and assess foot alignment. X-rays or other imaging studies may be ordered to rule out other potential causes of foot pain. Treatment is typically conservative, including rest, taping, or bracing to stabilize the foot, and exercises to strengthen the surrounding muscles. In some cases, manipulation or mobilization techniques performed by a podiatrist may be beneficial. If you have outer midfoot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, consult with Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

Chronic foot ulcers are a challenging complication of diabetes. Diabetic ulcers may arise from a variety of factors, including impaired blood circulation, nerve damage, and high blood sugar levels. These factors collectively compromise the body's ability to heal and fight infection. There are many therapies that podiatrists may use to combat foot ulcers, such as advanced wound care techniques, infection control measures, and strategies to enhance circulation. One key treatment is debridement, which involves the careful removal of dead or infected tissue to promote healing. A podiatrist may apply specialized dressings and topical agents that foster a moist healing environment and support tissue regeneration. Another treatment, called offloading, involves reducing pressure on the ulcer through custom footwear or casts. These are not the only treatments that podiatrists may employ. If you are suffering from chronic foot ulcers due to diabetes, it is suggested you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist to monitor and treat the condition. 

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.