High heels significantly impact walking, with notable effects on gait, biomechanics, and control. Wearing high heels can alter the way people walk in several ways, presenting valuable insights for both designers and podiatrists. The primary changes observed in high-heel walking encompass alterations in the foot's rollover function, modifications in ankle and knee joint dynamics, and shifts in lower back posture, accompanied by compromised step length and balance. The heightened heel height forces the foot into an increased plantar flexion, which, in turn, augments knee flexion and causes an increased curvature of the lower back. Understanding the biomechanical adjustments associated with high heel-wearing is vital for designing more comfortable and less detrimental footwear, in addition to addressing potential musculoskeletal issues arising from prolonged use. If you enjoy wearing high heels and want to continue wearing them while paying attention to your feet and body, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss this topic further.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

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.

There is a growing concern regarding the prevalence of being overweight or obese among individuals aged 60 and older. Excess weight not only elevates the risk of chronic diseases but also poses a significant threat to physical performance in older adults, potentially leading to dependency. Being overweight or obese in later life is closely linked to adverse outcomes, including a higher risk of falls and an increased likelihood of developing walking limitations compared to those maintaining a normal weight. These challenges are compounded by factors such as low muscle strength, reduced cardiorespiratory capacity, and the elevated energy cost of walking. If you are older and overweight and it is impacting your mobility, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss strategies that might help with improved functioning.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned 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.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

• When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
• Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
• Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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.

When a foot bone fracture occurs, proper healing is critical for recovery. Treatment options vary based on factors, such as the fracture's severity and location. While some fractures can heal with casts, others necessitate more invasive approaches, like bone fracture repair, also known as open reduction and internal fixation, or ORIF, surgery. ORIF surgery is recommended when a broken bone cannot heal adequately with casting or splinting alone. This is often the case with compound fractures, where the bone breaks through the skin, or fractures involving joints, which can impact mobility. Recovery typically takes six to eight weeks, with initial pain, swelling, and numbness managed through painkillers, rest, and elevation. If you have broken your foot and it is a severe break or is not responding to customary conservative treatment measures, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether surgery is an appropriate option for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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 Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a condition akin to coronary artery disease and carotid artery disease. It affects arteries outside the heart and brain, particularly in the legs and feet. Peripheral artery disease involves the accumulation of fatty deposits on the inner linings of artery walls, narrowing the arteries and impeding blood flow. This reduction in blood circulation causes pain during activities such as walking, in addition to slow healing foot wounds, temperature disparities between feet, and potential development of gangrene. Severe cases may necessitate removal of the affected toe, foot, or leg. Individuals with diabetes face an elevated risk of PAD, which is further heightened by additional factors, including being overweight or obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and high blood pressure. In addition, those with high LDL cholesterol, a family history of cardiovascular diseases, stroke, or a previous history of coronary artery disease or stroke are at higher risk of developing PAD. Early detection and intervention along with lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some instances, surgical procedures, can effectively manage PAD. If you have symptoms or risk factors of peripheral artery disease, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who is specially trained to manage this condition. 

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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.

Foot pain, a common grievance that can significantly impede daily activities, can stem from various sources. One prevalent cause is improper footwear, as shoes that lack proper support or are too tight can lead to discomfort and pain. Overuse or strain, often the result of prolonged standing or excessive physical activity, can stress the muscles and joints in the feet. Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, characterized by inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, contribute to persistent heel pain. Arthritis, affecting the joints, can also manifest as foot pain, particularly in the elderly. Additionally, injuries, nerve issues, or underlying medical conditions may contribute to discomfort. Identifying the root cause of foot pain is essential for targeted intervention. If you have any type of foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Elie C. Daniel, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.