Items filtered by date: August 2024

Pain and burning sensations in the Achilles tendon often stem from various causes related to overuse and strain. Repetitive activities, especially those involving running or jumping, can lead to inflammation known as Achilles tendinitis. This condition arises when the tendon, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone, becomes irritated from excessive stress. Another common issue is Achilles tendinosis, where chronic degeneration of the tendon tissue causes discomfort and a burning feeling. Tight calf muscles and wearing improper footwear can also contribute to tendon pain. To address these issues, it is vital to rest the affected area, and incorporate stretching exercises to improve flexibility. If you have pain in your calf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose Achilles tendon injuries, and offer effective treatment methods.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Suncoast Podiatry Associates. 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 Ocala, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

People with diabetes need to prioritize foot care to prevent complications such as infections, ulcers, and gangrene, which can sometimes result in severe outcomes. Nerve and blood vessel damage from high blood sugar can lead to decreased sensation and poor circulation in the feet. Foot care tips for diabetics include daily inspection of the feet for cuts, blisters, and abnormalities is essential. Wearing properly fitting shoes and socks is also important, as it helps protect against injuries and discomfort that might go unnoticed due to reduced sensation. Maintaining good blood sugar control is vital to promote healing and prevent infections. Additionally, washing feet daily with warm water, ensuring they are thoroughly dried, and moisturizing them can help maintain skin health. It is advisable to walking barefoot and to engage in regular physical activity to improve circulation. If any foot issues arise, a podiatrist can offer specialized care of your feet. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for ongoing foot treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Ankle dislocations are serious injuries where the bones in this complex joint lose their proper alignment. An ankle dislocation usually involves the shin bone, or tibia, and the foot bone, or talus, coming apart. Often, this injury is accompanied by breaks in the lower parts of the shin bones and damage to the ligaments that keep the ankle stable. In rare cases, just the ligaments can be injured, causing dislocation. These injuries are typically caused by trauma such as falls, car accidents, or sports injuries. The direction of dislocation depends on how the foot is positioned and the force applied. For example, when the foot points downward, the ankle might dislocate backwards. Twisting injuries can cause the ankle to dislocate sideways. Dislocations are very painful. They often cause visible deformity, swelling, bruising, and possible numbness or tingling if nerves are affected. Standing or walking is often impossible. If you believe your ankle may be dislocated, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin resulting from mechanical hyperkeratosis, which is a protective response to repeated friction or pressure. Corns, typically found on toes, are small, circular, and often painful. Calluses are larger, less defined, and usually form on weight-bearing areas like the soles of the feet. These conditions arise due to wearing poorly fitting shoes, abnormal gait, or prolonged activities causing excessive pressure on certain foot areas. Prevention includes wearing well-fitted, comfortable shoes and using protective pads or insoles to reduce pressure points. Regularly moisturizing feet can also help to keep the skin supple and less prone to thickening. Relief involves reducing the source of friction and gently filing thickened skin after soaking feet in warm water. If you have severe corns or calluses that are causing excessive pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment for an examination with a podiatrist.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Suncoast Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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