Items filtered by date: July 2024

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of this tissue, can stem from various biomechanical factors. Problems like an abnormal lower leg structure, limited ankle movement, and inward or outward heel or foot angles can strain the plantar fascia. These abnormalities can alter foot mechanics, leading to excessive tension and micro-tears in the fascia. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, especially after prolonged periods of standing or walking, which tends to improve with rest but worsens upon resuming activity. Early morning stiffness and tenderness in the heel or arch are also common. Addressing these biomechanical issues through proper footwear, orthotics, stretching exercises, and avoiding excessive strain on the feet can help to  manage symptoms and prevent recurrence of this ailment. If you have been afflicted by plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you various effective treatment methods.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Sharp pain in the big toe can be caused by various conditions, each requiring different treatments. Common culprits can include bunions, ingrown toenails, turf toe, arthritis, sesamoiditis, gout, and injuries like sprains or fractures. Bunions cause deformity and pain at the base of the toe, often due to wearing ill-fitting shoes or prolonged standing. Ingrown toenails, usually from improper nail trimming or pressure from tight shoes, can cause significant pain and swelling. Turf toe results from excessive stress on the big toe joint, which is common among athletes. Sesamoiditis, affecting the tiny bones under the big toe, causes dull, intermittent pain. Gout, a metabolic disorder, triggers sudden, severe pain due to uric acid crystal buildup. Lastly, sprains and fractures from trauma or overextension cause throbbing pain and swelling. Persistent or severe symptoms require an evaluation from a podiatrist. This foot doctor can diagnose the cause and suggest appropriate treatments, including orthotics, medication, or possibly surgery. If you are suffering pain in the big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athletes frequently encounter foot injuries due to the intense demands of their sports. Data from collegiate sports reveals significant differences in foot injury rates across various disciplines. Notably, female gymnasts and both male and female cross-country and soccer athletes show the highest rates of foot injuries. Common injuries include foot or toe contusions, midfoot injuries, plantar fascia injuries, turf toe, and metatarsal fractures. Cross-country and track and field athletes experience the highest proportions of foot injuries, with female athletes in track and field showing a higher rate of injury compared to their male counterparts. The most severe and frequent injuries identified are metatarsal fractures, plantar fascia injuries, midfoot injuries, and foot or toe bruises. Understanding these patterns is essential and vital for athletes, coaches, and medical professionals to help reduce the incidence and impact of these injuries. If you have suffered a sports related foot or ankle injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam and expert treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors 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 Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Congenital foot deformities are structural abnormalities present at birth that affect the shape and function of an infant's feet. Metatarsus adductus is characterized by the inward curvature of the front half of the foot, resulting in a C shape and often causing difficulty in fitting shoes. Clubfoot involves a twisted position where the foot points downward and inward, leading to difficulties in walking if untreated. Calcaneovalgus deformity presents as an upward and outward bending of the foot, which can cause a flatfoot appearance and limited mobility. Additionally, congenital vertical talus, a more severe condition, results in a rigid rocker-bottom foot, where the sole faces outward and the arch is absent. Symptoms of these deformities include abnormal foot positioning, restricted movement, and, as the child grows, potential pain and walking difficulties. If your child has a congenital foot condition, it is suggested that you include a podiatrist on your healthcare team to help manage the specific ailment.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
 

Ankle-foot orthosis, or AFO, is the most commonly prescribed orthosis for individuals with foot drop and various ankle and foot problems. This medical device supports the foot and ankle, improving stability and mobility. Made from lightweight, durable materials such as plastic, carbon fiber, or a combination, AFOs provide a custom fit tailored to the patient's specific needs. They function by holding the foot in a fixed position, preventing it from dragging while walking, thereby reducing the risk of tripping. AFOs are essential for individuals with conditions like a stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and other neurological disorders that cause muscle weakness. By offering essential support and enhancing gait, AFOs significantly improve the quality of life for those with foot drop and related ankle and foot issues. If you have a specific ankle condition, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if an ankle-foot orthosis is the right choice for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.