Afraid to get your Foot Checked?

Often, patients tell me they have put off getting their feet checked. Some say they figured the problem would go away. Some say they didn't think it was a big deal. Finally, some say that they were scared what I (the foot doctor) would say! I always tell people that coming into the office and getting an exam (and possibly x-rays) is the best way to get good information about their feet. Most conditions have a variety of conservative, nonsurgical treatment options. Better yet, patients often have many choices about what treatment plans work into their schedules or with their lives. For example, plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, can be treated with ice, stretching, medication, physical therapy, a night splint, strapping, orthotic devices, and walking boots. These are all good, conservative and non-painful options to get the heel feeling better! Greater than ninety percent of people with heel pain get better through conservative care. Obviously, there are situations where injections or surgery may be indicated. There are also situations where immobilization is required: fractures, tendon or ligament tears, and post operative patients. The good news is that seeing a foot doctor will give you good information about your feet! You can get recommendations about what will help with healing, and YOU (the patient) will have many good options for getting better! The foot is a complicated structure, with 28 bones, and numerous muscles, ligaments, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels. Make your appointment today to start feeling better TODAY! Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580, 6931 W. North Ave., Oak Park, IL, 60302.