Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Steven Tyler says his foot pain is due to a Neuroma

Recent photos of the feet of Aerosmith rocker, Steven Tyler, over the Spring showed toes that were crossed over each other. Articles report that Tyler says his foot pain is due to a neuroma, which is painful irritation and fibrosis around a nerve. Typically, these affect the nerve that goes between the third and fourth toes of the foot but can occur at other locations in the feet and body. When people have this condition, it can feel like they are walking on a pebble or that their sock is bunched up under the foot. Additionally, there can be a sharp pain radiating to the toes. Pointed or high heeled shoes will make this condition worse. However, with increased severity of the neuroma over time, even normal activities like walking and standing can aggravate the neuroma. There are a variety of treatment options for neuromas: injections, orthotics, medications, and padding. Some patients require surgery to remove the neuroma. I surgery is performed, the two toes that are innervated by this nerve usually become numb (usually the third and fourth toes). For articles on Steven Tyler's toes, see my Facebook page. If you think you have a neuroma or contracted toes, contact my office, 708-763-0580. Dr. Mary Ann Bender, 6931 W. North, Oak Park, IL.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

myFEET-Answers to Teen's Foot Questions

The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) has developed a very helpful and fun website to address teen foot issues, www.apma.org/myfeet. The website discusses healthy pedicures, proper shoe gear, common foot injuries, and also common conditions of the feet that teens may have, athlete's foot, ingrown nails, warts, smelly feet. With easy to follow language, fun colors, and interesting content, this is a great place to get information on teen foot problems. Dr. Bender, 6931 W. North Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302 708-763-0580

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Greg Stiemsma, Boston Celtics player, has plantar fasciitis

The Boston Celtics are currently battling their way through the NBA playoffs, but one of their players, Greg Stiemsma, is battling something else-Plantar Fasciitis. This is a condition where the band on the bottom of the foot, the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. It causes pain after rest and in the morning when the person is getting up from bed. This pain typically occurs in the heel and usually feels better after walking around for awhile. There are a variety of conservative ways to treat this condition! If you think that you have plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Mary Ann Bender, Oak Park and Chicago, IL. Dr. Bender will be happy to examine, diagnose, explain the treatment options, and finally, treat you for heel pain! 708-763-0580