A surgical procedure aimed at relieving pain from bone spurs on the top of the big toe is called a cheilectomy. The pain is the result of arthritis that also causes stiffness in the big toe, termed hallux rigidus. Typically considered after non-surgical interventions, a cheilectomy involves the careful removal of bone spurs to alleviate discomfort and improve range of motion. Whether performed under general or local anesthesia, the procedure usually allows for a same-day operation. Following surgery, treatment often starts with gentle toe movements and stretching exercises to prevent stiffness. The recovery period typically spans six to eight weeks. While individual recovery time may vary, the primary goal of restoring function and alleviating pain are the focus. If you have persistent pain and limited mobility in your big toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan, which may include surgery. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact John Killough, DPM of Regional Foot Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Podiatrists specialize in treating foot conditions, including the common yet painful issue of ingrown toenails. These occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing discomfort, redness, and even infection. When treating an ingrown toenail, a podiatrist may start with conservative treatments, such as properly trimming the nail, lifting it from the skin, and recommending appropriate footwear to alleviate pressure. In cases where the ingrown toenail is recurrent or severe, a podiatrist may perform a minor surgical procedure under local anesthesia to remove part of the nail. This professional intervention not only addresses the immediate pain and infection but can also prevent recurrence of ingrown nails in that area. Patients can usually return to their daily activities quickly and comfortably, with minimal risk of complications. If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment. 

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact John Killough, DPM of Regional Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Children's foot and heel pain, or CFHP, encompasses a variety of conditions that can impact children’s ability to engage in activities and sports without discomfort. One common cause of CFHP is Sever's disease, a condition that results from inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. Sever’s disease is often seen in active children undergoing growth spurts. Additionally, flat feet or overpronation can strain the foot's muscles and ligaments, causing pain. Improper footwear, intense physical activity, and obesity may also contribute to the development of CFHP. Symptoms typically include pain in the foot or heel, particularly during or after physical activities, and might be accompanied by swelling or redness. Addressing CFHP involves a combination of rest, wearing appropriate footwear, and sometimes orthotic devices to support the foot's structure. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent chronic problems and ensure that children can participate in their favorite activities without pain. If your child is suffering with foot or heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact John Killough, DPM of Regional Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Common diagnostic tests for foot and ankle pain encompass a variety of methods aimed at identifying the underlying cause of discomfort and informing appropriate treatment strategies. X-rays are often the initial imaging choice, providing detailed views of bones to detect fractures, arthritis, or bone abnormalities. Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, offers more comprehensive images, particularly useful for soft tissue injuries, such as ligament tears or tendon damage. Ultrasound scans provide real-time imaging and are effective for assessing soft tissue structures like tendons and ligaments. CT scans may be used to visualize complex fractures or detailed bone structures. Additionally, diagnostic procedures like electromyography, EMG, and nerve conduction studies, NCS, help assess nerve function, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like peripheral neuropathy or nerve compression syndromes. Physical examination techniques, including range of motion tests and palpation, complement these diagnostic tests, providing valuable insights into the source of foot and ankle pain. If you have foot or ankle pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can examine you and conduct tests necessary to properly diagnose and treat you.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with John Killough, DPM from Regional Foot Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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