Items filtered by date: October 2020

Plantar fasciitis is the result of the plantar fascia, the band on the bottom of the foot that connects the toes to the heel, becoming inflamed. Plantar fasciitis usually results in pain at the bottom of the heel or midfoot. Generally, the pain develops over time and can be either sharp or dull. Pain from plantar fasciitis is usually worse after waking up in the morning, after sitting or lying down for a long period of time, or after climbing stairs. Pain from plantar fasciitis is usually felt after an activity is completed and not as much during the activity. People who are between the ages of 40 and 70 and are active are at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Those who are obese, pregnant, run long distances, have structural foot problems, or have a very active job are also at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis. If you are experiencing the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is important to visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.  

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Alex Yanovskiy, DPM  from Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 office located in Des Plaines , IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The five metatarsal bones, plus the tendons and ligaments that create the arch at the top of the foot and connect the midfoot to the forefoot, are known as the Lisfranc joint complex. These ligaments and tendons can be sprained, or the metatarsal bones can be fractured, resulting in what is known as a “Lisfranc Injury.” Because the Lisfranc joint transfers force through the toes and allows pushing off, most injuries to this area involve upward, downward, or twisting forces to the foot. Lisfranc injuries are common in sports like football, when the foot is stepped on, twisted while pointing, or stepped on while facing down. Most Lisfranc injuries require 6 weeks of avoiding weight-bearing activities, followed by rehab. Surgery may be necessary as well. If you believe that you have suffered a Lisfranc injury, it is important to consult with a podiatrist as soon as possible. This will allow for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Alex Yanovskiy, DPM of Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic. 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 office located in Des Plaines , IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are many people worldwide who suffer from general foot pain. This may be partially or fully alleviated when frequent foot stretches are performed. A common and painful foot condition known as plantar fasciitis typically targets the heel and arch area. It may be beneficial to roll the bottom of the foot on a tennis ball, as this can help to stretch the plantar fascia. Swelling and redness are often symptoms that accompany a bunion, and it may feel better to stretch the toes. People who have jobs that require standing for the majority of the day and experience sore feet may benefit from elevating the feet as often as possible, in addition to massaging areas of the foot that are painful. If you would like more information about the benefits of stretching the feet, please consult with a podiatrist

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Alex Yanovskiy, DPM from Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Des Plaines , IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a bony bump that forms along the base of the big toe. Bunions can cause pain and stiffness in the affected foot, as well as swelling. Sometimes surgery, also known as a bunionectomy, may be necessary to correct the deformity and relieve the pain. You may consider bunion surgery if you have severe pain when walking, even when you’re wearing flat comfortable shoes, or when you are unable to bend or straighten the big toe. Other reasons to consider surgery can be chronic inflammation of the big toe that doesn’t go away with rest or medicine, if the big toe becomes deformed, or if the big toe bends towards the smaller toes. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of your bunion and determine if surgery is the correct method of treatment for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Alex Yanovskiy, DPM of Illinois Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Des Plaines , IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.