An Achilles tendon tear occurs when the tendon attaching the calf muscle to the heel completely tears. This injury is common and is often seen in middle-aged male sports enthusiasts. The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and can be prone to injury when sudden, explosive movement involved in running and jumping sports occurs during sports or exercise. Interestingly, taking certain antibiotics or cortisone shots can increase the likelihood of one tearing their Achilles. When this happens, one will feel a sudden pain behind the ankle. A pop or snap may be heard and one can feel like they have been kicked in the heel suddenly. It will make pointing toes down difficult and there may be swelling and bruising around the tendon. If you feel you might have torn your Achilles tendon or want more information to prevent this painful injury, consult 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 do not have the luxury of working from an office, and they must stand for the majority of the day. Some of these professions are labor-intensive, and people may experience foot pain at the end of the working day. Some methods can be implemented which may help to alleviate uncomfortable foot pain. Wearing thick socks that are made of cotton may help to provide extra cushioning, possibly leading to lessening existing foot pain. Additionally, it is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, and changing them after walking approximately 200 to 400 miles can help to ensure minimal foot discomfort. Elevating the feet frequently may help the overall body to rest, and this is often done by taking breaks as often as possible. Foot pain may interfere with the ability to have a productive work day. If you would like to learn more about how to protect your feet while at work, please speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with helpful tips.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Advanced Foot & Ankle Associates, PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
Working on Your Feet
Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.
Positive Changes
Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.
Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.
Eliminate Pain
Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.
Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen.
With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.
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.
Foot pain can be caused for a variety of reasons, but ill-fitting shoes are the biggest culprit. And if shoe fit is the reason for foot pain, insoles can be the first line of defense. Insoles are the soft cushions that fit inside most shoes. They work as shock absorbers for the feet. If one wears the same shoe every day, the insoles can start to break down and may need to be replaced. There are different insoles for different needs. An insert, insole, and orthotic are often terms that are used interchangeably, however, they are different. An insert is a thin piece of shoe padding or gel cushion that is placed in shoes to provide relief to pain in heels, arches, and forefeet. They are used for shock absorption, cushioning against pressure, and keeping the feet supported while walking. Insoles are general-purpose, off-the-shelf overlays for shoes that are made of foam. Orthotics are customized inserts that are used to control movement in the feet and legs. They are typically made to order. Visiting a podiatrist is suggested for the proper determination of the best type of insole for your foot discomfort.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, 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.
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)
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 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.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
