Items filtered by date: June 2018
What is the Achilles Tendon?
The longest tendon in the body is referred to as the Achilles tendon. Its location lies in the back of the foot and its purpose is to connect the heel bone to the calf. Research has shown that it may become damaged or torn as a result of a sudden injury, and it’s advised to seek treatment as soon as possible. Typical symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture may include difficulty in standing on tiptoes in addition to bruising and swelling at the point of an injury. In order to obtain a proper diagnosis, a podiatrist may use a method referred to as the Thompson’s test. This involves squeezing the calf muscles while lying face down so movement in the ankle can be observed. For severe tears, surgery may be a necessary option as a permanent solution which may prevent the tendon from re-rupturing. For less severe tears, it may be advantageous to wear a brace or a cast so healing can commence. Please consult with a podiatrist for additional information about Achilles tendon injuries.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Barbara Davis of Gilbert Podiatry. 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 Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that affects the joints and it is caused by an excess amount of uric acid in the bloodstream. A study was done to determine how gout is related to heart attacks, and it was found that the average time period between a diagnosis of gout and myocardial infarction was 2.3 years. Gout has also been shown to increase this risk of getting a heart attack by three times. Surprisingly, gout was also shown to be a higher risk factor for myocardial infarction when other factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart failure were absent. If you have any questions or think you may have gout, please consider scheduling a consultation with a podiatrist.
Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.
People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.
Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The Benefits of Stretching Your Feet During the Work Day
One of the benefits of working on your feet in the nursing profession, may include an improved circulatory system as a result of walking for the majority of the day. Nursing can be a physically demanding job, and the feet and ankles may benefit from practicing a daily exercise program that will strengthen the tendons, muscles and ligaments. Wearing the correct footwear is a key element in helping to achieve the support the feet need to feel strong. For this reason, it's recommended to purchase new shoes twice a year, and insoles may be added if additional cushioning is needed. Routinely stretching the feet and ankles during the day will help to maintain flexibility and this can be accomplished by pointing and flexing the ankles. If you would like additional information about how stretching your feet during your work day can benefit you, please speak with a podiatrist.
While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor 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 our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
How to Control Swollen Feet During Pregnancy
Many pregnant women will complain of foot pain, and this generally occurs in the last trimester. Research has shown this may be the result of elevated hormone levels which may cause bloating and swelling. The additional pressure and weight the feet endure as the fetus grows is indicative of extra fluid circulating in the body. Relief may be found when the legs are elevated for a few minutes several times per day, in addition to stretching the legs frequently. Different shoes may have to be worn to accommodate larger feet that may be a result of the swelling. Some ways to control the extra weight gain include drinking a moderate amount of water, ingesting foods that are healthy, and exercising on a regular basis. Some pregnant women may find relief in wearing maternity support stockings which may aid in alleviating the swelling in the ankles. If you experience pain in the feet during your pregnancy, it’s suggested that you speak with a podiatrist.
Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Dr. Barbara Davis from Gilbert Podiatry. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.
What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?
One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward. This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.
Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages.
How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?
- Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
- Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
- Wear shoes with good arch support
- Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
- Elevate feet if you experience swelling
- Massage your feet
- Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gilbert, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read more about Pregnancy and Foot Health