Foot for Thought - July 1, 2010

I was reviewing some old posts, and I came across this post regarding some fun foot facts. I promised you many more fun foot facts in the coming weeks. Well, I would like to get back to these. So without further adieu, here are ten more fun foot facts.

1. The podiatric physician (doctor of podiatric medicine, or DPM) is the health care professional trained in the care of your feet. He or she receives conventional medical training, plus special training on the foot, ankle, and lower leg. All 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico require that they pass rigorous state board examinations before they are licensed, and most require continuing education programs for regular license renewal.
2. There are about 10,700 doctors of podiatric medicine actively in practice in the United States, and they receive more than 55 million visits a year from people with any number of foot ailments. Yet that's probably only a fraction of the number of foot problems. Mostly, say podiatrists, that's because many people have the erroneous notion that their feet are supposed to hurt.
3. Only a small percentage of the population is born with foot problems, the American Podiatric Medical Association believes. Its neglect and a lack of awareness of proper care -- including ill-fitting shoes -- that bring on the problems. A lifetime of wear and tear, plus neglect, accounts for the fact that the practices of most podiatrists are made up of older Americans.
4. Corns and calluses are caused by friction and pressure from skin rubbing against bony areas when wearing shoes. If the first signs of soreness are ignored, corns and calluses rise up as nature's way of protecting sensitive areas.
5. There are approximately 250,000 sweat glands in a pair of feet, and they excrete as much as half a pint of moisture each day.
6. Plantar warts are caused by a virus which may invade the sole of the foot through cuts and breaks in the skin. Walking barefoot on dirty pavements or littered ground can expose feet to this sometimes painful skin infection.
7. The seven colleges of podiatric medicine all have entrance requirements which, like institutions granting MD (medical doctor) and DO (doctor of osteopathy) degrees, anticipate completion of an undergraduate degree, though they will consider candidates who show unusual promise and have completed a minimum of 90 semester hours at accredited undergraduate colleges or universities. However, the colleges report that recent entering classes were, on the average, almost as likely to have more than four years of undergraduate/graduate work as less than four.
8. About 19 percent of the US population has an average of 1.4 foot problems each year.
9. About 5 percent of the US population has foot infections, including athlete's foot, other fungal infections, and warts each year.
10. About 5 percent of the US population has ingrown toenails or other toenail problems each year.

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Even Hollywood Stars Admit To Not Taking Care of Their Feet

Kristin Stewart, star of the "Twilight Series", admits that her red carpet shoe choices have lead to some VERY tired feet lately. Read the story here (courtesy of People.com).

For women, making the right shoe choice can lead to a great night or a sore morning.

Maybe Kristin should have stopped by our office to see our stylish and COMFORTABLE Sandalista sandals (you can check out the styles here). These sandals are a perfect match of style and comfort. They feature an extra depth sole that will accommodate any custom or medical grade orthotic device that you already have. If you don't wear an orthotic device the provided insole allows you to remove pads on the toes and heel to offload any pressure you might be experiencing and give you a custom fit to your sandals.

So call us at 309-661-9975 or visit our website to make an appointment to have our shoe experts check out YOUR toes and order you a pair of Sandalistas today!

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Happy Feet = Happy Kids

As soon as that last school bell rings for the summer, kids hit the ground running. Whether they are headed to the pool, the beach or to camp, the short time between the end of school and the beginning of summer activities is a great time to pay attention to your child’s foot health.

Fun in the sun can end with a day at the doctor’s office if the proper safety measures are ignored. So before children catch their first glimpse of the giant slide at the pool, the oversized toys at the park, or the exciting new rides at the amusement park, prepare them with the right footwear and protect them with the right care. Here are a few tips from your podiatrist to make the summer fun and safe.

• Carefully observe your child’s walking patterns. Does your child have toes that point in or out, or have knock-knees or other gait abnormalities? These problems can be corrected if they are detected early and treated by a podiatrist.
• Children’s feet change size rapidly, so always have your child’s feet measured each time you purchase new shoes. Make sure that measurements are done while the child is standing for a more accurate sizing. The best time to buy new shoes is at the end of the day.
• When shopping for shoes, look for stiff material on either side of the heel, adequate cushioning and a built-in arch. The shoe should bend at the ball of the foot, not in the middle of the shoe.
• Never wear hand-me-down shoes.
• Don’t buy shoes that need a “break-in” period. Good shoes should feel comfortable right away. For athletic activities, choose a shoe that is designed for the sport your child will be playing.
• Never pack brand-new shoes for your children to wear on vacation.
• Walking barefoot on pavement, hotel or airplane carpeting, in hotel bathrooms or a locker room and near the pool can expose your child’s feet to a host of infections. Always wear a pair of flip-flops or strappy sandals made of soft, supple leather to prevent contracting a bacteria, fungus, or viruses.
• When applying sunscreen, don’t forget about putting some on your child’s feet. Additionally, always remember to re-apply.
• Watch for clues that your child may be injured. Limping, tripping, and hesitating to bear weight are telltale signs that something may be wrong. Remember that lack of complaints by a youngster is not a reliable sign. The bones of growing feet are so flexible that they can be twisted and distorted without the child being aware.
• Be careful about applying home remedies to children’s feet. Preparations strong enough to kill certain types of fungus in adults may irritate kids’ skin. Your best bet is to visit your podiatrist for treatment of any infections.

If your children suffer a foot injury, don't let it ruin their entire summer of fun. Call our office (309-661-9975) or visit our website to schedule an appointment.

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Melanomas

Summer is often the time we hear more about skin cancer—we’re told to avoid the sun if possible and always wear sunscreen when we are in the sun. But many people never think about their feet when they take preventative action, even though malignant melanoma (a serious type of skin cancer) can affect the legs and feet as well as other parts of the body.

Melanomas on the feet can occur in men and women, and while they usually develop in people over the age of 50, they can be found at any age. Lighter-skinned people are more likely to develop melanomas on sun-exposed areas of the body, but only one-third of African-American patients who have melanoma develop it on sun-exposed areas. In the African- American population, melanomas most often develop on skin that is not exposed to the sun, such as the foot and under the toenails. Early detection is extremely important since malignant melanoma can spread (metastasize) rapidly.

Since melanomas on the foot and ankle often go unnoticed during their earliest stage, routine foot examinations can increase the likelihood of diagnosing and treating malignant melanomas. During routine examinations your podiatrist will always look for moles, or “nevi,” which are usually evenly colored, round spots on the skin or even under the nails. Most are small and don’t change in size or shape. However, the doctor will carefully examine any moles that look “abnormal.” The podiatrist will use a common dermatological rule (the “ABCD” rule) to characterize the melanoma:

• Asymmetrical lesions
• Border irregularity
• Color variation
• Diameter greater than the size of a pencil eraser.

Skin cancer is rarely painful, so routine podiatric medical visits are important for anyone with questionable lesions on the feet. Other signs to watch for are changes in color or a mole that becomes raised from the skin. Malignant melanomas on the feet usually occur between toes, in and around the nails, and on the soles of the feet.

If you see something on your feet that may look like a melanoma, please call 309-661-9975 or visit our website to schedule an appointment to get it checked out.

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Foot for Thought - June 10, 2010

Summer Foot Care

Summertime is here and so are sunny days spent splashing in pools and relaxing on the beach. As many vacationers know, summer can cause some extra wear and tear on the body. Educated consumers usually protect themselves by purchasing sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses. But many will forget to look after the most important and neglected part of the body -- the feet.

I recommend the following key tips on how to protect yourself, especially your feet, from salt water, sand, and other summer scares:

1. Remember to apply sunscreen to feet, especially the tops and fronts of ankles. Don't forget to reapply if you're in the water!
2. When out of the water, wash and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, and apply a topical anti-fungal medication on any cracked or itchy skin. Clean, dry feet resist disease.
3. Pass up sharing towels to avoid developing athlete's foot and other diseases that can easily be spread.
4. Take special care of toenails, which are especially vulnerable around damp areas. Injury to the nail bed may make it more susceptible to infection so make an appointment at first sign of discoloration or infection.
5. To avoid toe and ankle injuries, wear shoes that are specific to the activity or sport you're participating in. Never play Frisbee in sandals and be sure to wear boots or gym shoes when working outside and mowing the lawn.
6. Give yourself plenty of time to break in new shoes before going on trips where you'll be doing lots of walking. And when trying on new shoes, make sure you have on the same socks you plan on wearing with them.
7. When in the ocean, be cautious of jellyfish that often bite at feet and ankles and sharp coral that can cut the undersides of feet. Keeping sandals or water shoes on at all times is a good idea to prevent stings, cuts, and other injuries.
8. Watch out for prickly sea urchin spines when taking walks on the beach. Avoid walking barefoot; wear an old pair of running shoes or flip-flops to protect you from jagged rocks, shells, spines, and debris that could float ashore.
9. And most importantly, swim, walk, and enjoy the summer!! Walking is the best form of exercise for your feet and swimming is a great alternative for those suffering from tendonitis and plantar fascitis, which can make other types of exercise painful.

If you experience any injuries during the summer, please give me a call at 309-661-9975 or visit our website to schedule an appointment. I don't want you to miss any of the fun activities summer has to offer.

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Summer is Here - Show Your Toes

With summer upon us, many of us are ready to shed those heavy shoes and socks in favor of sandals and flip-flops. But over the winter, corns and calluses may have developed, making your feet and toes not quite ready for “prime time.” Help is on the way.

Corns and calluses are protective layers of compacted, thick, dead skin cells. They are caused by repeated friction and pressure from skin rubbing against bony areas or against an irregularity in a shoe. Corns ordinarily form on the toes, and calluses on the soles or the balls of the feet. Corns and calluses can also form when the position of the bones in your feet change. The corns and calluses initially form to provide protection, but as they thicken, they can become painful and inflamed.

The friction and pressure from both corns and calluses can cause a painful or burning sensation. Often one visit to the podiatrist can be all that’s needed to relieve the pain, although most corns and calluses will reoccur without regular monitoring or changes in either your shoes or your foot function. The podiatric physician can work with you to relieve the pain by using a variety of pads or materials on the affected areas.

It is important that you never cut your corns or calluses with any instrument and never apply home remedies, except under a podiatrist’s instructions. Many over-the-counter remedies are advertised frequently, but often these home remedies can be dangerous. Self-treatment can often turn a minor problem into a major one.

Corns and calluses can be particularly problematic for patients with diabetes. These patients should always schedule regular yearly visits with their podiatrist to check for foot problems and circulation issues. If more frequent visits are required, the podiatrist will work with you to make sure your corns and calluses are monitored and treated as needed.

One way to control corns and calluses is to make sure that your shoes fit properly. Purchase new shoes later in the day when feet tend to be at their largest and replace worn-out shoes as soon as possible. Select and wear the right shoe for the activity that you are engaged in (i.e., running shoes for running). Also, it is important to alternate shoes—don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day.

A visit wit me can be all you need to get your feet in shape for summer footwear, so schedule that now and be ready to show off your “fancy feet.” So give me a call at 309-661-9975 or visit our website to schedule an appointment to get your feet into summer shape.

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Women's Common Foot Problems

Let’s admit it, ladies. We abuse our feet. We put a lot of stress and strain on our lower extremities, and we don’t take nearly as good care of them as we should. Based on our need to be fashionable, we often wear shoes that don’t fit well or are just not designed for walking and standing for long periods of time. Even Oprah admits that she only wears her highest heels once she’s seated during an interview. It’s no wonder that those stilettos and peep-toes are causing us pain—they are designed for beauty, not comfort. Women have some of the same foot problems as men, but mostly, our feet have many more “issues.”

Bunions are enlargements of the joint at the base of the big toe—the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint—that form when the bone or tissue at the big toe joint moves out of place. Bunions are a symptom of our foot’s development due to the way we walk, our inherited foot type, our shoes, or for other reasons. Although bunions tend to run in families, it is the foot type that is passed down—not the bunion. Since the MTP joint carries much of the body’s weight while walking, bunions can cause extreme pain if left untreated. Podiatric medical attention should be sought at the first indication of pain or discomfort.

Stress fractures are tiny or incomplete cracks in a bone often caused by overuse. Stress fractures occur most frequently in the foot and ankle and can be caused by a number of factors. An unusual increase in activity causing strain in the foot (fatigue fracture) is one of the most common causes, while weak bones (insufficiency fractures), are caused by medical conditions such as osteoporosis, can also be a factor. Medications such as steroids can lead to stress fractures, as can a sudden increase in activity levels. All of these causes can and should be evaluated by your podiatrist when you notice pain or swelling, which are the symptoms of a stress fracture.

A neuroma, also referred to as a “pinched nerve,” is a painful condition involving irritation and/or thickening of the nerve tissue between the toes, most commonly the 3^rd and 4th toes. The condition brings on pain, a burning sensation, tingling, or numbness between the toes and in the ball of the foot. Your podiatrist can offer a number of treatment options for a neuroma.

Ingrown nails are a common ailment seen by podiatric physicians. An ingrown nail is one whose corners or sides dig painfully into the soft tissue of the toe, often leading to irritation, redness, and swelling. Usually, toenails grow out straight, but sometimes one or both corners or the sides will curve and grow into the flesh. The big toe is the most common site for this condition, but other toes can also become affected.

Ingrown toenails may be caused by any one or more of the following: improperly trimmed nails, shoes that are too tight, trauma, and activities with repeated pressure on the toe (such as running or kicking). There are other causes as well, but this painful condition can usually be eased with one or two visits to your podiatrist’s office. Women may also have a tendency to develop blisters, corns, calluses, and heel pain. All of these conditions can be treated by your podiatrist, and a number of treatment options are available. Once we all realize that our feet don’t have to hurt, life will be that much more enjoyable, ladies.

So if you have suffered any of the above injuries, don't let it become a lingering injury. Schedule an appointment with us by calling our office (309-661-9975) or by visiting our website.

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Foot for Thought - April 29, 2010

We have been very busy at HFAA lately. I wanted to share a picture from our last event, the Advocate BroMenn Diabetes event. We had a great time talking to the visitors about our Diabetic Shoe program, our diabetic focused products, and what types of services we offer a person with diabetes. Here is a picture of our Medical Assistants, Sara and Sam standing behind our display booth.

Also, I was recently featured on local radio station WJBC. I spoke with radio personality Beth Whisman about healthy flip-flops as part of a Healthy Cells Magazine update. Below is a link to listen to the segment if you didn't get a chance to listen to it live.

http://wjbc.com/Tabid/7997/default.aspx?AID=15276

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Running Injuries

Spring is a great time to get back into your running routine or to ramp up your training and exercise for the coming summer months. But it’s always important to take it slowly and to train carefully with the advice of an expert to avoid running injuries.

Before you get started, no matter how fit you may be, it’s important to remember that stretching before and after a run is a great way to minimize injuries. Choosing proper footwear is very important and your podiatrist can help you choose the right shoe for your level of activity. Finally, you will want to work with the doctor to develop an effective training routine that allows your body (and more importantly, your feet) to adapt to a new level of exercise. But no matter how careful you are, you may end up with some common injuries such as those listed here.

Shin splints: Shin splints, which are painful and appear at the front and inside of the leg, are often caused by running on hard surfaces, over striding, muscle imbalance, or overuse. Shin splints can also be related to the shape and structure of your feet. Treatment includes rest, stretching, changing your running technique, and rebalancing foot mechanics with the use of an orthotic device in the shoe. Physical therapy can also be helpful. If you begin to feel this type of pain, slow down, take shorter strides, and see a podiatrist at your first opportunity.

Stress fractures: A stress fracture is a tiny or incomplete crack in a bone that is often caused by overuse. Stress fractures occur most frequently in the foot and ankle, so your podiatrist is well trained to diagnose and treat this problem. Signs of a stress fracture are pain that increases with activity and decreases with rest, pain that increases over time or pain that persists even at rest. Often a stress fracture will result in swelling and a spot that feels tender to the touch. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of a stress fracture can often prevent further injury. A podiatrist can determine your best treatment with x-ray and a physical exam. Many stress fractures can be treated with rest, ice and over-the-counter pain relievers. For most people, an appropriate period of rest will be sufficient for the bone to heal, but like all fractures, the bone can take up to 8 to 10 weeks to heal completely. In other cases, your podiatrist may need to immobilize the affected bone with a cast, cast boot, fracture shoe, or a splint. Surgical intervention may be suggested if other, more conservative treatments are not effective.

Blisters and nail problems: Runners often have blisters and nail problems but with a little maintenance and care, they can be avoided or minimized so that they don’t limit your ability to keep up your training routine.

Blisters are caused by skin friction. Don’t pop them. Apply moleskin or an adhesive bandage over a blister, and leave it on until it falls off naturally in the bath or shower. Keep your feet dry and always wear socks as a cushion between your feet and shoes. If a blister breaks on its own, wash the area, apply an antiseptic, and cover with a sterile bandage.

Ingrown nails are nails whose corners or sides dig painfully into the skin, often causing infection. They are frequently caused by improper nail trimming but also by shoe pressure, injury, or poor foot structure. Runners are particularly susceptible to nail problems, and long-distance runners often lose some of their toenails entirely while they are training. If an ingrown portion of the nail is painful or infected, your podiatrist can remove the affected portion to allow for healing. It is possible to permanently remove the offending portion of the nail to prevent occurrence.

So the next time you suffer a running injury or if you have recently suffered a running related injury, don't let it become a lingering injury. Schedule an appointment with us by calling our office (309-661-9975) or by visiting our website.

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Foot for Thought - April 15, 2010

Upcoming Event

Advocate BroMenn Diabetes Awareness Day

When: Saturday April 17, 2010 from 8am to noon
Where: Advocate BroMenn Conference Center

Advocate BroMenn will be hosting a morning filled with facts, fun, and friends. Vendors will be showcasing the latest equipment and resources available. Speakers this year are Dr. Mueed, speaking about Neuropathy and Diabetes, Dr. Thompson, speaking about managing a healthy lifestyle with a chronic illness, and Alison Geyer speaking about Eating for a Healthy Heart with Diabetes.

We will be a vendor at the event. We will have our products and shoes available for visitors to view. We will also have our shoe expert Sam on hand to talk to visitors about our diabetic shoe program and other services we can provide a person with diabetes.

If you are at the event, be sure to stop by and say hi. We hope to see you there!

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Watch Out at Your Nail Salon

While having a pedicure at the local nail salon may seem like a luxury that you deserve, it’s a good idea to keep your eyes and ears open and to make sure that you keep your feet safe by following a few easy tips.

If you schedule your pedicure first thing in the morning, you may find that the foot bath is the cleanest it will be all day. If you can’t be the first customer, however, make sure that the technician cleans both the tub and the filter before your pedicure.

If at all possible, bring your own pedicure tools to the salon. Bacteria and fungus can easily be transferred from person to person on these tools, especially if the salon does not use proper sterilization techniques. Never allow technicians to use blades or knives to cut your calluses or to eliminate thick, dead skin. Only use pumice stones, foot files, or exfoliating scrub. Once you soak your feet for a few minutes, this thickened skin can be easily sloughed off with these types of tools.

The pedicurist should trim your nails straight across. Do not let them dig into the sides of the nails or try to trim out ingrown nails. If you think you may have an ingrown toenail, see your podiatrist immediately.

Only healthy nails should be painted with colored polish. Make sure to change the polish frequently and to check your nails when the polish is off. Signs of fungus and other nail problems can often be hidden under nail polish, so be vigilant in checking your nails.

If your skin bleeds or gets nicked at the salon, make sure to carefully clean and disinfect that area and then watch for signs of infection.

So if you are having any signs of redness or skin irritation after your salon visit, please give me a call at 309-661-9975 or visit our website to schedule an appointment to make sure your well deserved salon visit doesn't turn into nightmare.

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Upcoming Events

Hey everyone!

Sorry for my recent lack of posts. We have been very busy at HFAA preparing for a couple of events. So please take a look below, and if you are in the area, stop by and say hi. We would love to see you!

If you are interested in coming to our Business After Hours Event, remember that you need to RSVP by March 9, 2010 (See below).

2010 Women's Health Night: The Economics of Health and Taking Care of Yourself

• Tuesday March 9, 2010
• 3:00-7:30pm
• Interstate Center
• Learn how to properly care for yourself and all the women in your family. Enjoy bone density screenings, strength training, and Zumba exercises at this FREE event. This afternoon will be filled with various informational presentations including breast health, nutrition, and vaccines. Click here for additional information.

McLean County Chamber of Commerce After Hours Event

• Wednesday March 17, 2010 (St. Patrick's Day - Be sure to wear some green)
• 4:30-6:30 pm
• Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates, P.C.
• Don’t miss this opportunity to see a behind the scenes tour of our entire faculty, hear Dr. Lockwood’s story of how and why she became a podiatrist, and network with members of the community. Light appetizers and refreshments will be available for your enjoyment. The free event is open to all friends, colleagues, and patients of HFAA. Bring your business card for a chance to win gifts valued over $40 dollars. Please e-mail your reservation with the full names of you and your guests to appointments@heartlandfootandankle.com, or give us a call at 309-661-9975

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Toe Huggers

In a recent issue of Time Magazine (Feb. 1, 2010), writer Brian Walsh experimented with an interesting idea – Is running barefoot better than with a well structured shoe? The online link to the article is here. New research by the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation suggests that those ‘toe huggers’ just might have the right idea.

When we run (or walk) barefoot, our feet have the ability to work in their natural state. If we all have the ‘ideal’ foot (which, unfortunately, none of us do!), this idea of NOT using shoes would be a great idea. Too many people have structural problems that can lead to serious issues if they begin to run/exercise without the appropriate footwear. People with high arches will have too much stress on the outside of their feet when walking barefoot and people with a lower arch will inadvertently put a lot of stress on the muscles on the inside of their ankles.

A well structured shoe specific for your foot type is ALWAYS the best bet. Consult with your podiatrist or local pedorthist about what may work well for you to begin a well balanced exercise regimen. Barefoot running has its place, but not as an everyday exercise. (Concrete is NOT our friend, no matter what we run in!)

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Foot for Thought - February 11, 2010

For the next few Foot for Thought posts, I am going to give some "Fun Foot Facts". Each week, I will have ten foot facts that might surprise you. So stay tuned.

1. Seventy-five percent of Americans will experience foot health problems of varying degrees of severity at one time or another in their lives.
2. The foot is an intricate structure containing 26 bones. Thirty-three joints, 107 ligaments, 19 muscles, and tendons hold the structure together and allow it to move in a variety of ways.
3. The 52 bones in your feet make up about one quarter of all the bones in your body.
4. Women have about four times as many foot problems as men; lifelong patterns of wearing high heels often are the culprit.
5. The American Podiatric Medical Association says the average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day. Those cover several miles, and they all add up to about 115,000 miles in a lifetime -- more than four times the circumference of the globe.
6. There are times when you're walking that the pressure on your feet exceeds your body weight, and when you're running, it can be three or four times your weight.
7. Shopping for shoes is best done in the afternoon, says the American Podiatric Medical Association. Your feet tend to swell a little during the day, and it's best to buy shoes to fit them then. Have your feet measured every time you purchase shoes, and do it while you're standing. When you try on shoes, try them on both feet; many people have one foot larger than the other, and it's best to fit the larger one.
8. Trim your toenails straight across with clippers specially designed for the purpose. Leave them slightly longer than the tips of your toes.
9. Walking is the best exercise for your feet. It also contributes to your general health by improving circulation, contributing to weight control and promoting all-around well being.
10. Your feet mirror your general health. Such conditions as arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in the feet -- so foot ailments can be your first sign of more serious medical problems.

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Foot for Thought - February 4, 2010

Podiatry and Super Bowl XLIV

If you are a pro football fan, the game you have been waiting for is just 4 days away.

The talk dominating the sports news landscape for the last week and a half leading up to the game has been the injury to Indianapolis Colts star defensive end Dwight Freeney

Freeney suffered a lower ankle sprain in the AFC Championship game on January 23. Due to his superior conditioning and the use of the most advanced healing techniques, he is expecting to play on Sunday, much to the dismay of the New Orleans Saints.

For the rest of us, an ankle sprain can be a lingering injury. According to the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society, more than 25,000 people sprain their ankle EVERY DAY.

I googled ankle sprains and came across some great information that I wanted to pass along to you. I found this information from the patient education section of the Steadman Hawkins Clinic website. The link is posted below.

http://www.steadman-hawkins.com/ankle/overview.asp

The information on this website is very informative and includes descriptions of the different types of ankle sprains, ankle sprain symptoms, treatment, and recovery from ankle sprains. Check it out!

So the next time you suffer an ankle sprain don't let it become a lingering injury. Schedule an appointment with us by calling our office (309-661-9975) or by visiting our website.

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Man Up and Think about Your Feet

Men and women have some similarities in their foot problems, but they also have a number of differences. I thought I would get the men out there thinking about what some of the differences might be.

Let’s admit it guys, we usually tend to wait too long to seek medical care. We avoid our medical problems until sometimes they become too serious to ignore. The term “weekend warriors” often applies to us, especially when we start on a new exercise routine. We also tend to binge on exercise during the weekend. And while we’re making a list, we are less likely to use the proper type of shoe for activities, and we tend not to prepare for those same activities with stretching before and after exercise.

When you experience an athletic injury, it’s important to do the right thing fast. Call your podiatrist to discuss any and all foot and ankle injuries. The doctor may recommend that you treat your injury at home, or may recommend that you meet him or her at the office or the ER. While you’re waiting, remember “RICE” — rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

Another problem that men may be more prone to is “athlete’s foot,” which has a great title for a crummy infection. While most men over fifty would love to have “athlete” associated with them in any way, this condition is probably not what you had in mind. Athlete’s foot is a skin disease caused by a fungus, usually occurring between the toes. The signs of athlete’s foot are dry skin, itching, scaling, inflammation, and blisters.

Men can do a lot to prevent infection by practicing good foot hygiene. Daily washing of the feet with soap and water; drying carefully, especially between the toes; and changing shoes regularly to decrease moisture, help to prevent the fungus from infecting the feet. Men should also avoid walking barefoot, wear socks that keep feet dry and change them frequently, and reduce perspiration by using a powder recommended by the podiatrist.

If an apparent fungus condition does not respond to proper foot hygiene and self care, and there is no improvement within two weeks, consult your podiatrist. The doctor will determine if a fungus is the cause of the problem. If it is, a specific treatment plan, including the prescription of antifungal medication, applied topically or taken by mouth, will usually be suggested.

So if you are a "weekend warrior" and have injured yourself or are suffering from "athlete's foot", please give me a call at 309-661-9975, or visit our website to schedule an appointment to help you get back into action as soon as possible.

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Foot for Thought - January 21, 2009

I wanted to use today's Foot for Thought to highlight some of our upcoming events. If you are in the area stop by and say hi to me and the staff.

Have a Heart - Give Your Soles

• The Month of February 2010
• Buring normal office hours
• Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates
• HFAA, in conjunction with the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association, will be collecting shoes to distribute to homeless shelters and charities. Please bring in your gently worn shoes to donate to local shelters and charities.

2010 Women's Health Night: The Economics of Health and Taking Care of Yourself

• Tuesday March 9, 2010
• 3:00-7:30pm
• Interstate Center in downtown Bloomington
• Learn how to properly care for yourself and all the women in your family. Enjoy bone density screenings, strength training, and Zumba exercises at this FREE event. This afternoon will be filled with various informational presentations including breast health, nutrition, and vaccines. Click here for additional information. http://www.ihlf.org/healthnight.htm

McLean County Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours Event

• Wednesday March 17, 2010
• 4:30-6:30 pm
• At Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates
• Don’t miss this opportunity to see a behind the scenes look of our entire faculty, hear Dr. Lockwood’s story of how and why she became a podiatrist, and network with members of the community. Light appetizers and refreshments will be available for your enjoyment. The free event is open to all friends, colleagues, and patients of HFAA. Bring your business card for a chance to win a gift valued at over $25 dollars. Please e-mail your reservation with the full names of you and your guests to appointments@heartlandfootandankle.com

Free Living with Diabetes

• Thursday October 14, 2010
• 6:30 pm
• OSF St. Joseph Hospital- Business & Conference Center Building
• Are you struggling with diabetes? Is the stress of your disease bringing you down? Is diabetes affecting your life and everyday activities? Well then- join professionals and diabetics alike as we share the secrets to living a happy, healthy life as a diabetic. Dr. Lockwood will be the key speaker for the evening. Attend this FREE event for sharing, caring, education, and support!

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High Blood Pressure - The Podiatric Physician and Cardiovascular Ailments

As a member of the health care team, your doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM) is vitally concerned about hypertension (high blood pressure) and vascular disease (heart and circulatory problems). There are several reasons for this concern. First, because you are a patient, your podiatric physician and surgeon is interested in all aspects of your health and your treatment program. Second, he or she supports the goals of high blood pressure detection, treatment, and control.

Your podiatric physician should know if you have any of the following cardiovascular or related conditions:

Hypertension and/or cardiovascular disease: Hypertension sometimes causes decreased circulation. A careful examination is required to determine if there is lower than normal temperature in any of the extremities, absence of normal skin color, or diminished pulse in the feet. The concern is that these are signs of arterial insufficiency (reduced blood flow). Increased or periodic swelling in the lower extremities is important because it may mean that hypertension has contributed to heart disease.

Rheumatic heart disease: Persons who have had rheumatic heart disease must be protected with prophylactic antibiotics prior to any surgical intervention. If you take medication for this condition, tell your podiatric physician. Any medication you may be taking for high blood pressure, a heart condition, or any other reason should be reported to the DPM to ensure that it does not conflict with medications that may be prescribed in the treatment of your feet.

Diabetes: This condition frequently affects the smaller arteries, resulting in diminished circulation and decreased sensation in the extremities. Let your podiatric physician know if you have ever been told that you have diabetes, particularly if you are talking medication or insulin for this condition.

Ulceration: Open sores that do not heal, or heal very slowly, may be symptoms of certain anemias, including sickle cell disease. Or they may be due to hypertension or certain inflammatory conditions of the blood vessels. Your DPM is on the alert for such conditions, but be sure to mention if you have ever had this problem.

Swollen feet: Persistent swelling of one or both feet may be due to kidney, heart, or circulatory problems.

Burning feet: Although it can have a number of causes, a burning sensation of the feet is frequently caused by diminished circulation.

Control of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can cause fatal strokes and heart disease. As a health care provider, your podiatric physician assists in controlling this public health problem. There are three major areas in which he or she provides this important public service:

Detection: Many podiatric physicians routinely take every patient's blood pressure and determine if it is elevated.

Treatment: After confirming that blood pressure is elevated and making this information part of the patient's record, the DPM refers all patients with elevated blood pressure to their primary care physicians for evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.

Long-Term Control: By encouraging patients at every visit to adhere to treatment, and by monitoring reductions in blood pressure, side effects of treatment, and referring for reevaluation as needed, the podiatric physician facilitates long-term control.

If you have high blood pressure, be sure to inform every health care provider so we can ensure we provide you with the best treatment possible.

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Sock it to Me – Your Socks Have Gone High Tech

New technology has invaded our homes and our offices. It’s become essential in how we correspond with one another, how we drive our cars and even how we stay warm in winter. Even the socks we wear have undergone transformations that relate to technology.

New technology has made fabrics healthier, more comfortable, and better looking than ever. Using fabrics like cotton and getting away from synthetic materials can help keep feet dry, leaving them comfortable and blister-free. Since your feet and legs spend several months of the year covered in footwear, it is essential to choose the right sock for your needs. From fabric to fit, making sure your footwear has all the latest features is key.

Here are some tips to choose socks that are right for you and the occasion.

• A sock with a poly/cotton blend, incorporating cotton and synthetics, is an excellent combination for everyday wear. Opting for either a thick or thin sock will not affect the health of your feet.
• Socks should fit like a glove. There should be no loose fabric around toes or heels. Socks that bunch up can cause friction and lead to blisters. Socks that are too tight can decrease circulation and comfort.
• If you have diabetes or decreased circulation, seamless socks are now available to prevent friction that might result in irritation.
• Athletes should look for socks that wick moisture away from the foot. The best material is a cotton/polyester blend which will provide excellent comfort level, great wear, and moisture absorption.
• All socks should be tried with the appropriate shoes. Don’t try your running socks on with your dress shoes--that’s a recipe for buying the wrong socks.
• Ask your podiatric physician for recommendations. The technology involved can be overwhelming, but your DPM can provide you with the appropriate guidance that matches your sport.

We sell many different types of socks in our office that can meet your needs. If you can't find it in our office, we would be happy to order them for you.

If you would like to discuss socks and your feet, feel free to give me a call at 309-661-9975 or visit our website to set up an appointment.

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Foot for Thought - January 7, 2009

For the past 3 months, HFAA has been sending out a monthly newsletter. Since we may not have some readers e-mail addresses, I wanted to give you the opportunity to check it out and subscribe to it. It contains helpful tips, pratice updates, and our upcomming events.

Click the link below to forward the newsletter to your e-mail.

http://heartlandfoodandankle.forwardtomyfriend.com/r/jjuydjuyt/25EF72C3/kkujtu/l

If you enjoy it and would like to receive it every month, please send your name and e-mail address to officemanager@heartlandfootandankle.com and we will get you on the subscriber list.

Be safe and stay warm,

Dr. Lockwood

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Frostbite

With the New Year came freezing cold temperatures.

Did you know that nearly half of all frostbite cases involve the foot and ankle? That’s a staggering figure, but avoiding frostbite and treating it quickly are both important lessons we can learn. According to your podiatric physician, the most effective way of dealing with frostbite is to prevent it from occurring in the first place.

If you know you will be exposed to the cold weather, following these tips can literally save your toes:

• Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and dress appropriately.
• If you begin to feel pain, numbness, or tingling in your feet, get out of the cold as soon as possible.
• Seek professional help as soon as possible from your podiatric physician for any foot- or ankle-related concerns.

Prolonged exposure to extremely cold temperatures can lead to severe injury if proper treatment is not provided in a timely manner.

Signs and symptoms of frostbite include:

• Pain or prickling progressing to numbness
• Pale, hard, and cold skin with waxy appearance
• Flushing due to blood rushing to area after it's re-warmed
• Burning sensation and swelling from collected fluid that may last for weeks
• Blisters
• Black scab-like crust, which may develop several weeks later

Mild frostbite is treated by re-warming the affected area, washing it with an antiseptic, and applying a sterile dressing. If medical care is not available immediately, seek shelter and re-warm a mildly frostbitten area in warm water (101° to 104° F) or by repeatedly applying warm cloths to the area for 30 minutes. Never use hot water, fire, a heating pad, or other dry heat because these methods may burn the skin before the feeling returns.

Frostbite is a very serious injury that can involve significant damage to the feet. In severe cases, surgery may even be necessary, depending on the depth and extent of tissue damage. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and proper treatment by a podiatric physician is essential.

If you think you might be suffering from Frostbite, please visit our website or call us at 309-661-9975 to schedule an appointment.

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