Items filtered by date: April 2022

The Achilles tendon connects the two large calf muscles at the back of the leg to the heel bone. It makes flexing the foot possible, along with walking, running, and jumping. When the Achilles tendon becomes damaged, swollen, and painful, it is known as Achilles tendinitis or Achilles tendinopathy. This condition can occur for a variety of reasons including failing to warm up the calf muscles prior to working out, wearing shoes that do not support the feet properly, suddenly increasing the intensity/amount of physical activity, running too often or on hard surfaces, participating in activities with a lot of jumping, or accidentally turning your foot in or out abruptly. Other risk factors for Achilles tendinitis include being a middle-aged or older adult or having flat feet or a growth or heel spur at the back of the heel (both of which can irritate or put pressure on the tendon). If you believe you have Achilles tendinitis, make an appointment with your podiatrist as soon as possible to begin treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. 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 offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Many foot problems can be solved by taking a look at the shoes you wear, whether it be running shoes, flip-flops, dress shoes or bedroom slippers. For instance, plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain, can be the result of doing pounding exercises in shoes that lack proper cushioning and padding. Similarly, metatarsalgia and Morton’s neuroma, resulting in pain in the ball of the foot, can be directly linked to shoving your feet into tight high-heeled shoes with pointy toes and then walking in them or standing for long periods of time. Flip-flops can be bearers of fatigue, caused by lack of arch support and cushioning in the heel. Any shoes with thin flat leather soles and uppers may be the root of calluses and corns that turn into painful areas on the toes and soles of your feet. Taking long walks, hiking, or running in shoes that are not specifically made for the activity, can result in painful blisters. A good way to find out which shoes are best for your feet and your lifestyle is to consult a podiatrist for guidance in seeking proper footwear.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Garnet & Carbonell, DPM, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Palmetto Bay, South Miami, and Homestead, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.