An Achilles tendon injury occurs when the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel becomes strained, inflamed, or torn. This tendon plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping. Injuries may develop gradually due to repetitive stress or suddenly from excessive force. Common causes include overuse, wearing improper footwear, sudden increases in physical activity, and inadequate warm-ups before exercise. Engaging in high-impact activities, such as basketball or running, can place significant strain on the tendon. Having tight calf muscles or structural foot imbalances may also contribute to added stress on the tendon. If you experience pain in the lower part of your calf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and provide appropriate treatment for Achilles tendon injuries.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is the Achilles Tendon?
The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.
What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?
There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.
Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms
Inflammation
Dull to severe pain
Increased blood flow to the tendon
Thickening of the tendon
Rupture Symptoms
Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
Total immobility
Treatment and Prevention
Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:
Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Nampa, ID Fruitlland, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Constant care and regular evaluation are important for a foot or ankle fracture. If left untreated, foot or ankle fractures can worsen over time and create more serious problems.
Don't wait to be examined if you believe you've experienced a foot or ankle fracture.
Plantar fasciitis causes pain and inflammation in the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. This tissue, known as the plantar fascia, connects the heel to the toes and helps support the arch. Repetitive strain or excessive pressure can cause small tears in the fascia, leading to irritation and discomfort. The pain is often felt near the heel and is typically worse in the morning or after long periods of rest. Risk factors include prolonged standing, high-impact activities, improper footwear, and foot structure abnormalities like flat feet or high arches. Plantar fasciitis can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it may become difficult to complete daily activities. If you have heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Excessive running
Having high arches in your feet
Other foot issues such as flat feet
Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
Maintain a healthy weight
If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Nampa, ID Fruitlland, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Morton's neuroma develops when tissue thickens around a nerve in the forefoot, commonly between the third and fourth toes. This condition often causes a burning sensation, tingling, or the feeling of stepping on a small object. Wearing tight shoes and high heels can increase pressure on the nerve and worsen the pain. A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma by assessing symptoms and using digital imaging as needed. Treatment may involve changing footwear, using orthotics to relieve pressure, or receiving injections to reduce inflammation. If non-surgical methods do not provide relief, surgery may be considered to either remove the affected nerve or release surrounding tissue to reduce compression. Surgical recovery typically allows walking in a protective shoe soon after the procedure, with most people returning to regular footwear within a few weeks. If you are experiencing symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options, which may include surgery.
Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot & Ankle Medical Center . Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.
What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?
Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities
Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Nampa, ID Fruitlland, ID. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
