The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the muscles in your calf to your heel. The Achilles tendon endures a lot of stress and pressure during daily activities and exercise. Sometimes, the stress and pressure may become excessive, leading to an injury. Achilles tendonitis refers to an inflammation of the Achilles tendon. It typically stems from overuse and can cause symptoms such as pain and swelling. There are two types of Achilles tendonitis, insertional and noninsertional. In insertional tendonitis, the damage to the tendon occurs where the tendon meets the heel bone. Insertional tendonitis can occur at any age, both in active and in sedentary people, and is often associated with the development of bone spurs. Non-insertional Achilles tendonitis occurs when small tears in the middle fibers of the tendon start to break down. Non-insertional tendonitis typically affects young, active people. If you experience an injury to the Achilles tendon, it is recommended that you seek the care of a podiatrist.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. 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
Rupture Symptoms
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:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
A broken toe is a common injury. Severe cases that cause the toe to be crooked, involve the big toe, or lead to an open wound should be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. Once a doctor has looked at your toe and prescribed a treatment plan, you can help your toe heal by following home care instructions. Rest your toe by not doing any physical activity that causes pain. It may be best to keep your foot immobile whenever possible. For the first day after your injury, ice your toe for 20 minutes every hour that you are awake, and then 2-3 times a day during the following days, but do not put ice directly on the skin. Keep your foot raised when possible to decrease swelling. If pain persists, ask your podiatrist about possible pain medications, such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. For more advice on how to help care for your broken toe at home, please consult with a podiatrist.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetes is a medical condition that often affects the feet. Elevated blood glucose levels can cause a lack of sensation in the feet, and existing cuts, bruises, and wounds may be difficult to notice. An untreated cut may lead to a diabetic foot ulcer, which may develop on the top or sides of the foot. It is important to check the feet daily, and to notice if there is swelling or a change in skin color. There are measures which can be implemented that may help to prevent the potential foot problems that are caused by diabetes. These measures can include controlling your blood glucose levels, wearing shoes that fit correctly, and avoiding walking barefoot. If you have diabetes, it is strongly recommended that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can help you manage your foot health.
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 McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. 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
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 one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
When high heels are frequently worn, it may lead to the development of various foot conditions. These foot ailments can include plantar fasciitis, bunions, corn and calluses, or hammertoes. Patients who choose to have surgery performed may find wearing high heels to be more comfortable afterward, despite the fact that wearing this type of shoe may have initially caused the pain and discomfort. When high heels are worn, it can be easier for the ankle to twist, which may result in a fracture or sprain. It is generally suggested to wear flat shoes after surgery, and once flexibility, range of motion, and strength in the feet are restored, the body and feet can be more prepared to wear heels again. If you would like additional information about foot conditions that may be caused from wearing high heels, please consult with a podiatrist.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from McKinney Podiatric Associates, PA. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Effects of High Heels on the Feet
High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal. Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.
Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?
If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems. Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising. If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work. Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Pasadena, Baytown, League City, Houston, and Pearland,TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
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