An Achilles tendon injury can cause extreme pain and discomfort. This tendon is located in the lower back of the leg, and connects the heel to the calf muscles. People who enjoy running may experience Achilles tendon injuries. This may be a result of increasing speed and mileage too quickly, and not warming up and cooling down properly before and after running. The pain is  immediately felt when this type of injury has happened, and additional symptoms can include decreased strength, stiffness in the back of the heel, and it can be difficult to walk. A proper diagnosis is often done, which consists of having an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound performed. This often begins with resting the affected foot as frequently as possible, and keeping the weight off of it. It may be beneficial to perform strength training exercises and stretches as it heals, in addition to wearing custom-made orthotics. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M of Florida. Dr. Klein 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 Saint Petersburg, FL. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Most ankle sprains heal in roughly six weeks, and podiatrists recommend using the rest, ice, compression, and elevation method to help this process along. However, if someone sustains a more severe ankle sprain, termed as a Grade 3 sprain, more serious measures may be needed and healing may take longer. With a Grade 3 sprain, the ligament has been torn completely, and swelling is significant. The ankle is tender and black and blue. Motion is extremely limited, and bearing weight is out of the question. At this point, it is essential to have immediate medical help from a podiatrist. Because the joint is unstable, a cast, brace, or protective boot will likely be prescribed. Crutches also may be required. In addition, a series of exercises to increase strength and help reduce the chances of a re-injury is generally suggested. If you have experienced a severe ankle sprain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist as soon as possible.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

The popular shoes that are known as flip flops date back to 1500 B.C. They have the same Y-shaped construction, and today they are available in a variety of colors and styles. Despite the ease of wearing these types of shoes, they can be the source of foot pain. Most flip flops lack good arch support and may cause the feet to flatten as walking is done. Plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, may gradually develop as a result of this. The plantar fasciia is the band of tissue that connects the heels to the toes, and the condition is often painful. The entire foot may become fatigued from the toes gripping the front of the shoe to keep it on the foot. The stride may change as the heels touch the ground with more force while wearing flip flops, possibly causing the natural walking style to change. If you are interested in wearing these types of shoes, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can educate you on the pros and cons of wearing flip flops.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Ian Klein, D.P.M from Florida. Dr. Klein will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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