My big toe hurts!? What is bunion pain? Presented by Dr. Bender, Oak Park, IL

What is that big bump on the side of your big toe and how did it get there? Often, it is a bunion, and this occurs when the big toe joint moves out of alignment. This causes the head of the first metatarsal to become very prominent and form a bump. Sometimes, this bump is not painful and does not impact walking or standing. However, when the bump becomes red, inflamed, and irritated, it is a problem that requires treatment.

What are the causes of bunions? Common causes include the following: flat feet, genetics, arthritis, trauma, certain diseases, and improper shoegear.

How are they treated? Bunions can be treated conservatively with medication, padding, changes in shoegear, orthotics, or injections. These conservative treatments do not remove the bunion but can ease the pain. The only way to permanently remove a bunion is through surgery. If you have significant pain, this may be the answer for you. However, initial healing from bunion surgery takes 6-8 weeks, so it is important that you discuss the details of the surgery with your doctor to make sure surgery is right for you.

If you have this or another foot condition, please contact Dr. Bender, Advanced Physical Medicine, for an appointment.

Oak Park 708-763-0580
Chicago 63rd 773-776-3166
Chicago Drexel 773-994-0417

What is a Neuroma? Presented by Dr. Bender, Oak Park, IL

A neuroma is a condition that involves inflammation around one of the digital nerves of the foot. Usually, this occurs between the second and third toes. Patients complain of several different sensations when this condition occurs: sharp pains radiating to the toes, burning pain in the area, the feeling of walking on a pebble or marble, and/or the feeling that the sock is bunched up when it is not. This condition is aggravated by high heeled shoes, tight shoes, any pressure on the forefoot (such as standing on the toes), walking barefoot, and prolonged standing or walking.

There are many causes of neuromas, but the most common is foot structure. Some people have metatarsal bones that are too close together, and this applies pressure to the digital nerve as it passes between the metatarsal bones. Trauma, incorrect shoegear, certain activities, arthritis, and the way we walk can also cause neuromas.

Common treatments for neuromas include the following: medication, injections, physical therapy, padding, custom molded orthotics, and surgery.

If you feel like you have this condition, please make an appointment with Dr. Bender. 708-763-0580 Oak Park, IL

Heel Pain Education Video Oakparkpodiatry.com

Each month, we will feature a new educational video at oakparkpodiatry.com. This month's feature is focused on heel pain. You can view the video by clicking on Educational Videos on the main pain of oakparkpodiatry.com.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Dr. Bender
708-763-0580
6891 W North
Oak Park, IL

Night Splints- A treatment for Plantar Fasciitis. Presented by Dr. Bender, Advanced Physical Medicine

Previous blogs have discussed plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the band on the bottom of the foot. The purpose of today's post is to discuss night splints. A night splint is a common treatment for plantar fasciitis. It is a device that is worn at night or when resting for a prolonged period. It holds the foot and ankle in place at a 90 degree angle, and this employes a constant stretch on the plantar fascia and achilles tendon while worn. Many people that have plantar fasciitis already know that stretching is an important part of the treatment of this inflammation. Incorporating the night splint into the treatment protocol allows for stretching to occur even when at rest for prolonged periods. This eliminates the pain most people with this condition suffer when first stepping down in the morning.

If you have questions about night splints, please contact Dr. Bender at 708-763-0580 or drbender@oakparkpodiatry.com.

Have a nice and safe weekend!

As I remember the day 9/11/01, I think about the losses and heroes of that tragic day. I think of those who sacrificed to help those in need, sometimes giving their own lives to come to the aid of others. I look forward to a bright future for our country, and I wish all of you a safe and peaceful weekend as we all reflect on a day that changed our country and our lives.

Dr. Bender
drbender@oakparkpodiatry.com
708-763-0580

Thick, discolored toenails? Treat your fungal nails now!

Presented by Dr. Bender, Oak Park Podiatry and Advanced Physical Medicine

Fungal toenails appear thick, yellow/brown/black, and are often abnormally shaped. It typically takes 9 months for a toenail to grow out,so Fall is a great time to start treatment on your toenails so that they are clear for Spring.

There are a variety of treatment options for fungal toenails, and they fall into two categories: oral and topical. There are advantages and disadvantages to both, and I will be happy to go over this with you to decide what treatment plan is best for you!

For more information: advancedphysicalmedicine.org or oakparkpodiatry.com

For appointments: 708-763-0580