April 2023

Flip flops may seem like the perfect summer shoe, however, they can wreak havoc on the health of your feet if worn for long periods of time. The negative health effects of flip flops are well known and documented, ranging from heel pain to nerve damage. Additionally, flip flops can cause an individual to develop problems with their posture. There are many different reasons for this. For example, since the feet are essentially the building blocks of the body’s posture, when we wear shoes that are not supportive, such as flip flops, the posture can collapse. Poorly supported feet can ultimately lead to misalignment, which results in bad posture throughout the body. If you are someone who enjoys wearing flip flops during the summer months, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide you with knowledge about the pros and cons of wearing this type of shoe.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops.  Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off; they're perfect for any summer beach goer.  However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are There Injuries Associated with Flip-Flops?

Yes.  Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops regularly are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections.  Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like Wearing Flip-Flops. Are There Safe Alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and that are made of high-quality materials that will support for your feet.  These flip-flops will cost more but will also last longer as a result.

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

There are many moving parts each foot is made of. There are 26 bones along with several joints, tendons, and muscles that work together that enable the body to walk, run, and balance. Approximately one-quarter of all the bones that are in the body are located in the feet. Each toe has three joints, and the big toe has two joints. The calcaneus is considered to be the largest bone in the foot, and it forms the heel bone. The muscles provide the ability to move the feet, and each group of muscles provides a different function. The largest ligament in the foot is known as the plantar fascia, and it connects the heel to the toes. The Achilles tendon has the ability to provide mobility to the foot, and if an injury happens to this tendon, walking is often impaired. If you would like additional information about various components of the foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can give you interesting and useful knowledge.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors 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 Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The majority of pregnant women notice their feet undergo changes during this time in their lives. There are hormones that are produced during pregnancy, which may cause the ligaments in the feet to loosen. The added weight from the growing fetus may cause the ankles to swell, and the arches may flatten. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, are comfortable, and it is helpful to refrain from wearing high heels. Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in a gentle exercise routine may help to reduce the swelling in the feet and ankles. Many women notice their shoe size becomes larger while they are pregnant, and it is beneficial to properly measure your feet to determine what the correct size is. Drinking plenty of water daily and wearing compression stockings may help the feet to feel better, which may improve the quality of this time period. If you are pregnant, and have questions about how to reduce swollen feet, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Many people take their feet for granted until they begin to hurt. The feet are the foundation and carry the entire weight of the body, making it possible to walk, run, and jump. Having foot cramps can wreak havoc on the day. They can cause pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to walk. A common reason why foot cramps may happen from wearing shoes that are too tight. This may cause limited movement in the feet, possibly leading to foot and muscle cramps. Dehydration may be another reason why foot cramps may occur. Lack of water may cause the muscles to malfunction, and this may also result in foot cramps. This type of foot pain may be avoided when a routine stretching and exercise regime is practiced. Strong foot muscles help to keep the body balanced, and it is beneficial to avoid overstretching, which may lead to foot fatigue. If you have foot cramps, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer you the correct relief options.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Illinois . Our doctors 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 offices located in Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.