Items filtered by date: May 2023

The plantar fascia is found on the bottom of the foot. It is a long portion of tissue that connects the heel to the toes and can become quite painful if it becomes irritated. A heel injury or gradual wear and tear may lead to developing plantar fasciitis. This foot condition is defined as inflammation or tears that happen to the plantar fascia, which can occur from wearing shoes that do not have adequate cushioning in the heel area. It can also happen to people who stand on hard or uneven surfaces for most of the day, causing excess pressure on the heel and surrounding areas. Many people enjoy running and jogging, and it is helpful to be aware of how this can negatively impact the heels. Pregnant women may develop plantar fasciitis, as a result of the added weight the feet must endure. Temporary relief may be found when the affected foot is elevated, and walking is kept to a minimum. A podiatrist is a specialist that can effectively treat plantar fasciitis, and it is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can offer you the treatment option that is best for you.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM  from Illinois. Our doctor 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 Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Practicing good diabetic foot care is essential for maintaining proper foot health. Having elevated glucose levels in the blood can lead to developing diabetes, and the feet are often affected. Research has shown that approximately half of diabetic patients have nerve damage, which is the inability to feel existing cuts, bruises, or scrapes that are on the feet. A foot care routine can begin with washing and drying the feet, followed by inspecting the soles of the feet for any abnormalities. This can be done by using a mirror, or a family member or caregiver may be able to help. Effective foot care tips can include following a healthy eating plan, engaging in a gentle exercise program, and refraining from smoking, if applicable. It is important to wear shoes while walking inside or outdoors, in addition to trimming the toenails straight across. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious 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 Paul A. Santangelo, 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 Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A broken foot is a common injury and may take up to several weeks for a full recovery. There are various degrees of a broken foot, which can range from a hairline fracture to a bone that is completely severed. It can occur as a result of falling, and a popping sound may be heard if the fracture is severe. Additionally, symptoms can include swelling and bruising at the time of the injury, a reduced range of motion, and it may be difficult, if not impossible to walk. A diagnosis is generally performed which can be done by having an X-ray taken. This is followed by beginning the right treatment, which can consist of wearing a walking boot or cast for several weeks. These methods are successful in keeping the affected foot stabilized as the healing process takes place. If you feel you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can offer you relief and healing options.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Paul A. Santangelo, 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 Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot massages are a popular form of foot therapy. They are effective in relieving stress and aches and pains. They can also help to increase overall well-being. There are several types of foot massages people can enjoy. Reflexology is a technique that uses pressure points that connect to specific areas of the body. A Swedish foot massage is considered the most relaxing type of massage, and can be effective in soothing tired feet at the end of the day. A deep-tissue foot massage applies intense pressure in certain areas of the foot, and it can help reduce injuries that are muscle related. Relaxation can be found when a hot stone foot massage is performed. The masseuses' hands are replaced by using hot stones that can soothe tired muscles. If you would like additional information about foot massages, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Foot therapy is often necessary for those recovering from either foot deformities or foot injuries. If you have concerns regarding therapy, consult with Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. 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 our offices located in Niles and Rockford, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Despite being relatively small parts of the human body, the toes are critical to maintaining the health of the body and feet. The toes may be susceptible to many conditions, including hammertoe, ingrown toenails, and toenail fungus. Many patients may not be familiar with a condition known as Morton’s toe. This condition is present in a patient when their second toe is longer in length than their big toe. Therefore, Morton’s toe is defined by the relative lengths of the second and big toe. Interestingly, women are more predisposed to this condition than men. As a result of having Morton’s toe, an individual may be at an increased risk of developing calluses on the feet. Having the condition may also lead to a somewhat uneven distribution of weight. If you are living with Morton’s toe, it is recommended that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and advice. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Paul A. Santangelo, DPM from Illinois. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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