Items filtered by date: May 2023

Orthotics are shoe inserts that help redistribute pressure, improve gait and posture, and cushion sensitive parts of the feet. The can also help to absorb shock and reduce foot pain. People with certain conditions that can benefit from orthotics include plantar fasciitis, lower limb injuries, flat feet or high arches. Patients with pronation or supination may also find a better distribution of pressure and equilibrium when orthotics are worn. Most people seem to benefit while some kind of orthotic is worn, either custom-made inserts or those that can be purchased over-the-counter. If you would like to know more about this pain-saving device, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to see if you are a good candidate for custom orthotics. 

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Ronald Pieroni, DPM from Bolingbrook Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor 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 office located in Bolingbrook, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

People who enjoy playing pickleball may find they have developed plantar fasciitis. It is a common injury that can happen from this sport, and implementing preventive methods can help an individual to continue enjoying this activity. People may choose to wear splints during the night, which may help to keep the damaged tendons in a lengthened position. Additionally, it may be helpful to stop playing pickleball temporarily while the foot can heal. This type of foot injury often brings pain and discomfort, and patients may find temporary relief while rolling the affected foot on a frozen water bottle. Blood flow to the injured part of the foot may improve when the foot is frequently elevated, and over-the-counter pain medicine is taken if needed. If you enjoy playing pickleball and have developed plantar fasciitis, it is strongly suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which can have you gradually return to participating in this sport.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Ronald Pieroni, DPM from Bolingbrook Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Many parents are interested in knowing how fast their child’s feet grow. It is common for toddlers to have new shoes every few months that can accommodate their growing feet. Research has indicated the feet grow approximately three-quarters of an inch per year during the ages of one and three, and will increase to half an inch between ages three and six. Some parents find it helpful for their child to wear open-toe shoes, such as sandals, which can give the toes adequate room to move freely. It is beneficial that the first pair of shoes is purchased when walking begins outside, which can protect the feet from various surfaces. Until that time, the overall foot can become stronger as the child walks barefoot while indoors. If you would like additional information about when and what type of shoes to purchase for your child, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you with the knowledge you are seeking.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Ronald Pieroni, DPM of Bolingbrook Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

There is a small percentage of people worldwide who are affected by the foot condition that is known as gout. It is a form of arthritis and can cause debilitating pain and discomfort. Gout occurs due to excess uric acid in the blood. The excess uric acid may be caused by eating foods with large amounts of purines. These can consist of shellfish, red meat, and sugary drinks. Gout may also occur from genetic reasons, and it may be more prevalent among men who are over 40 years old. The abundance of uric acid converts to crystals that lodge in the joints of the big toe, and in addition to the pain, there may be swelling and redness. The range of motion in the toe may be temporarily reduced, and the pain may radiate to the other joints. Gout attacks may be prevented when healthy foods are eaten, including vegetables, whole grain foods, and dairy products that are low in fat. If you suffer from gout, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Ronald Pieroni, DPM from Bolingbrook Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

It is important to note that foot pain is nothing to take lightly. Since humans use their feet every day for a wide range of activities, maintaining proper foot health and addressing any potential foot pain is critical. Occasionally, foot pain may result from wearing the wrong type of shoe for the specific activity that is being pursued. For example, many individuals who spend a lot of time walking are not wearing shoes that are well suited for this. When an individual engages in walking, it is beneficial the shoes have a significant amount of arch support. This means shoes such as flip flops or flats generally are not well suited to this activity. High heels also are ill-fitted to the activity of walking because this kind of shoe forces the weight of the body to the balls of the feet. Therefore, a patient can try to remember to choose shoes that match the activity they are engaging in. If you are someone struggling with foot pain, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and advice. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Ronald Pieroni, DPM from Bolingbrook Foot and Ankle Center. 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 office located in Bolingbrook, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.