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The Achilles tendon is located in the back of the leg. It connects the heel to the calf muscles, and is responsible for pointing and flexing the foot. There are several reasons why an Achilles tendon injury can develop. These can include frequently participating in running and jumping activities, wearing high heels for most of the day, or not warming up before exercising. Many patients experience common symptoms which consist of a sharp pain in the back of the heel, the inability to point and flex the foot, and the affected area may appear swollen. If you have endured this type of injury, mild relief may be found when the foot is elevated, and it can help to wear a brace to stabilize the heel. If you would like to learn more about effective methods to treat an Achilles tendon injury, please speak with a podiatrist. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. 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 one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Many people enjoy the feeling of stretching their feet. Stretching helps the overall foot to feel good, in addition to improving mobility and flexibility. There are specific stretches that are suggested for certain foot conditions such as bunions and plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is the portion of tissue which connects the heel to the toes, and it is located on the bottom of the foot. It may become stronger when the toes are pointed and flexed, or when the sole of the foot is rolled on a bottle. Bunions may be caused by wearing shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. It is beneficial to place the ankle across the opposite thigh, and gently rotate the toes to each side. When patients stand for the majority of the day, the toes may become cramped and stiff, and existing discomfort may be relieved when the toes are stretched. For additional information about how to properly perform foot stretches, please consult with a podiatrist.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

It is important for people of all age groups to maintain proper foot care. Research has indicated It is in the best interest of the child to begin early, and this can be accomplished by walking barefoot while indoors. This can often help the overall foot to become stronger as the toes grasp the floor. When it is time to walk outdoors, the first pair of shoes can be purchased. After your child’s feet are properly measured, the correct size shoe can be tried on. It is beneficial for these shoes to consist of a flexible material which allows their feet to stay cool. If you would like additional information about how to properly fit shoes for your child, please consult with a podiatrist who can offer helpful techniques.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lake Worth and Aledo/Willow Park, TX. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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