An Achilles tendon injury involves damage to the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It can occur from sudden increases in activity, overuse, or forceful movements like jumping or running. Symptoms include pain, swelling, stiffness, and difficulty walking or pushing off the foot. Risk factors include tight muscles, improper footwear, and lack of conditioning. Rest is essential to allow the tendon to recover and prevent further strain. Additional care includes stretching, strengthening, and a gradual return to activity. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing the injury, guiding treatment, and recommending supportive therapies to promote healing. If you have signs of an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer you appropriate treatment solutions to restore mobility.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Ankita Patel, DPM of All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Swedesboro, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar fasciitis develops when the thick tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated, leading to heel pain and stiffness. Treatment  of plantar fasciitis is aimed at reducing strain on this tissue and restoring normal foot function. A podiatrist can examine foot structure and movement to identify such causes as tight calf muscles or poor alignment. Custom orthotics, which are medical-grade shoe inserts, may be prescribed by a podiatrist to support the arch and reduce pressure on the heel. Anti-inflammatory medication can help decrease swelling and discomfort. In more persistent cases, certain injections may be used to calm inflammation. Immobilization with a walking boot can give the tissue time to heal by limiting stress on the foot. Imaging tests may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Early care can improve mobility and prevent chronic pain. If you are experiencing heel pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

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 Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor 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 Swedesboro, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Wound care is an important medical specialty focused on the treatment and management of acute and chronic wounds, especially in the feet where healing can be more complex. Patient preferences on wound care may reflect attitudes and beliefs, possibly based on education. Some types of foot wounds may develop from pressure, injury, poor circulation, or complications related to conditions such as diabetes. Risk factors include reduced blood flow, nerve damage, infection, and prolonged pressure on certain areas. Common types of foot wounds include ulcers, cuts, and slow healing sores that can worsen without proper care. A podiatrist plays a key role by providing debridement, infection control, and pressure relief to promote healing. Early treatment helps prevent serious complications. If you have any type of foot wound, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can take your preferences into account and  offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Ankita Patel, DPM from All Pro Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Swedesboro, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.