Items filtered by date: March 2023

Overpronation is when the arch of the foot collapses and the foot and ankle roll inward when walking. Medically, this is called pes planus, flexible flatfoot, or more commonly, flat feet. Those who overpronate can be at risk for more injuries than others. Children are born with flat feet, but arches typically develop in the teenage years. Overpronation can occur when the arches are overly flexible, and it can be caused by obesity or pregnancy, inflammation or damage to the tendon, or arthritis in the foot, among other things. Walking or standing can be uncomfortable for those who overpronate. Relief can be found by wearing more supportive shoes, using orthotics, and maintaining a normal body weight. If you have ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Running as a way to get in shape seems so easy, just put on your shoes and run. However, it’s not that simple if you want to prevent injuries. Experts on running suggest a number of ways to start out safely and stay injury free. First and foremost is finding supportive shoes designed for running, not walking. They should provide ample cushioning, and arch support, and fit your foot well. Next, be sure to warm up properly before you set out to run and cool down when you finish. Start slow and gradually build up time, distance, and speed. Many running injuries among beginners are caused by doing too much, too soon. Experts suggest increasing no more than 10 percent a week. It may help to seek the guidance of a running group that can offer practical tips for healthy running. To be on the safe side, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a checkup on your feet before undertaking this strenuous activity. This foot doctor can also offer recommendations on proper footwear guidelines to follow.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists of Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a particular kind of fungal infection that impacts the feet. Individuals who have athlete’s foot may experience different symptoms. For example, patients may present a scaly rash that could be red. There are several different types of athlete’s foot that an individual could have. Moccasin-type athlete’s foot is one such type. Several things characterize this kind of athlete’s foot. Namely, moccasin-type athlete’s foot affects the soles of the feet, the heel, and the edges of the foot. As a result of having a moccasin-type athlete’s foot, an individual could experience soreness in the feet. The skin on the feet may even thicken in texture or crack. If you are struggling with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist today.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates.  Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Although a pregnant woman might not initially think that they should pay attention to the health of their feet during pregnancy, there are many reasons for her to monitor the health of her feet as she carries her baby to term. First, the woman’s feet may increase in size. Second, the pregnant woman could potentially experience changes to her skin. For example, many pregnant women might experience cracked heels, where the skin around the back of the heel becomes significantly dehydrated. It is important to note that if a pregnant woman experiences continuous itching on their feet, it is suggested that they schedule an appointment with a trusted medical professional like a podiatrist. If you are pregnant, you can schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

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 Quad Cities Foot and Ankle Associates. 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 Bettendorf, and DeWitt, IA and Rock Island, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.