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.

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

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

Memorial Day 2012

Wishing a happy and healthy Memorial Day 2012 to All! Thank you to all of our servicemen and women for the sacrifices you have made for our FREEDOM! Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580

Hakeem Nicks of the NY Giants Breaks Fifth Metatarsal Bone of the Foot

During voluntary workouts, Hakeem Nicks of the NY Giants suddenly felt extreme pain in his foot. He broke his fifth metatarsal bone of the foot and will have surgery to place a screw in this bone. He will not return to the field for at least 12 weeks. Fractures of the fifth metatarsal bone, especially close to the base of the bone, are very serious injuries. The blood supply to this portion of the bone is not very strong, and this usually results in slow healing. In my experience, many patients do well with immobilization and rest if the bone is properly approximated (not dislocated and out of position). Some people, especially athletes, respond better and faster with the placement of a screw into the bone to stabilize the fracture. A device called a bone stimulator is often employed for this type of fracture to assist with proper healing. Normal bone healing takes 6-8 weeks, and after surgery and/or immobilization, patients often need a course of physical therapy to get them back to their normal activity level. If you have questions about this condition or any other foot issue, please schedule your appointment! Dr. Mary Ann Bender, 708-763-0580

RICE and Ankle Injuries

Danny Granger of the Indiana Pacers injured his ankle last night in an important playoff game against the Heat. Ankle injuries can be very complex, as there are several bones, tendons, and ligaments that can be injured when abnormal pressure is placed on the ankle. Simpler injuries like mild ankle sprains can improve much more quickly than breaks or fractures, tendon or ligament tears, or more severe ankle sprains. However, if you do injure your ankle while playing your favorite sport during these great Spring days, it is essential to start RICE immediately after the injury to speed healing, control swelling and pain, and to make yourself more comfortable. Also, schedule an appointment with your foot doctor for assessment. R-rest I-ice C-compress (ace wraps, air casts, cam walkers, walking boots, splints, braces) E-elevate Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580, 6931 W. North, Oak Park, IL 60302

Happy Mother's Day 2012!

We hope all of the wonderful Mom's out there have a great weekend! Dr. Bender, 708-763-0580