Achilles Tendon Injuries

The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the lower leg, is a strong band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. There are several different types of Achilles tendon injuries. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendon ruptures. 

When the tendon is injured due to repetitive strain and overuse, it can result in a condition called Achilles tendonitis. This injury is characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, heel and calf pain, thickening of the tendon, ankle and calf stiffness, and a decreased range of motion. In the initial stages of Achilles tendonitis, pain primarily occurs following physical activity, but it can become constant and chronic if the injury is left untreated. 

When the Achilles tendon fully tears, it is known as an Achilles tendon rupture. This usually occurs following a sudden, high-impact injury. Symptoms include a sudden, stabbing pain in the back of the affected leg, a popping or snapping sensation, swelling, and difficulty walking and raising the foot. This condition requires prompt treatment to prevent further damage to the tendon. 

There are a variety of treatments available for Achilles tendon injuries. Achilles tendonitis can often be treated through conservative methods, such as resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and doing gentle stretches. Achilles tendon ruptures may require surgical treatment to avoid reinjury. For more information about Achilles tendon injuries, please consult with a chiropodist. 

All About Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is a strong band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. When this tendon is injured, it can become inflamed, leading to a condition called Achilles tendonitis. The most common cause of Achilles tendonitis is repetitive strain and overuse from physical activities, such as running, playing high-impact sports, or standing for prolonged periods of time. Biomechanical issues in the foot and weak or tight calf muscles can also be to blame. Symptoms of this condition include heel and calf pain, tendon thickening, and stiffness, which can impact your mobility. If you believe that you may have Achilles tendonitis, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a chiropodist. 

Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include: 

  • Repetitive stress or overuse

  • Sudden increase in activity levels

  • High impact injury

  • Calf muscle tightness or weakness

  • Altered foot biomechanics

  • Heel bone spurs

  • Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include: 

  • Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise

  • Chronic heel and calf pain

  • Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf

  • A popping or snapping sensation

  • Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon

  • Ankle and calf stiffness

  • Decreased range of motion in the affected foot

  • Swelling

  • Difficulty walking 

Treatment

  • Resting the affected leg

  • Applying ice 

  • Compressing the foot and ankle

  • Elevating the injured leg 

  • Wearing orthotics

  • Low impact exercises

  • Stretches

  • Strengthening exercises 

  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

  • Cortisone injections

  • Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured 

Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!

Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!

Sever's Disease

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a foot condition that occurs in children. Sever’s disease is not truly a disease, but rather an overuse injury. It is common among active children between the ages of 8 and 14. Young, growing children have a growth plate in their heels, where new bone is forming. When too much stress is put on the heel, the growth plate can become inflamed, leading to heel pain. 

Children who participate in activities that put repetitive stress on the heel bone are most at risk of developing Sever’s disease. These activities include playing soccer or basketball, running track, or any other sport or activity that involves running, jogging, or jumping. Children who are obese, have tight Achilles tendons, biomechanical problems, flat feet, or fallen arches are also at risk. 

The symptoms of Sever’s disease include pain in the back or bottom of the heel, pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed, and fatigue. The pain may lead to difficulties walking or bearing weight on the affected foot, and you may notice your child limping or walking on their toes to avoid putting pressure on the heel. A chiropodist can diagnose Sever’s disease by taking a medical history and performing a physical examination. Imaging studies such as X-rays may also be ordered. 

Sever’s disease is generally treated by resting the affected foot, wearing shoes or orthotics that support the heel, and taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation. In severe cases of heel pain, the affected foot may need to be immobilized with a cast while it heals. If your child is complaining of heel pain, please consult with a chiropodist. 

What Is Sever’s Disease?

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, refers to an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel. It is one of the most common foot injuries in children and adolescents between the ages of 8 and 14. It is especially common in children who are involved in sports activities such as soccer, running, or basketball. Symptoms of Sever’s disease include pain in the back or bottom of the heel, pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed, difficulty running, jumping, or walking, limping, walking on the toes to avoid putting pressure on the heels, and tiredness. There are various treatments for Sever’s disease including resting the foot by stopping or reducing participation in the activity that caused it, supporting the heel with shoe inserts or custom orthotics, and taking oral medications to reduce pain and inflammation. If your child complains of heel pain, it is highly recommended that you take them to see a chiropodist. 

Sever’s disease typically affects young children and teenagers. If your child complains of foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Sever’s Disease? 

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It is typically caused by overuse due to repetitive activities such as running, jumping, and playing certain sports. This condition most frequently affects children between the ages of 8 and 14. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Sever’s disease include: 

  • Pain in the back or bottom of the heel

  • Pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed

  • Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid putting pressure on the heel

  • Difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities

  • Fatigue 

Diagnosis

Sever’s disease is diagnosed by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical examination. Imaging studies, such as an X-ray, can help rule out other injuries like a fracture. 

Treatment

Sever’s disease typically heals without any long-term complications. Treatment involves resting the affected foot by reducing typical activities, wearing orthotics to support the foot, immobilizing the affected foot, taking medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and stretching the foot. 

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

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Pregnancy and Foot Health

Many changes can happen in every part of your body during pregnancy — and the feet are no exception. Common foot conditions that pregnant women face include swollen feet, fallen arches, and plantar fasciitis. 

An increase in the volume of blood and fluids in your body, coupled with an increase in overall fluid retention due to hormones, can lead to swelling in the feet. This is especially common during the third trimester. You may be able to reduce swelling by drinking plenty of water, reducing caffeine intake, resting your feet frequently, and sitting with your legs uncrossed to promote circulation.  

During pregnancy, your hormones can cause changes in the structure of your feet. An increase in hormones that relax your ligaments could affect the ligaments in the arches of your feet, causing them to become flat. This condition is known as fallen arches, or acquired flat feet. As the foot flattens, your shoe size may increase and you may need footwear that offers more arch support. 

The weight that you gain during pregnancy is carried by your feet. This can put them under extra strain and lead to aches, soreness, or a condition known as plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is caused by an inflammation of the ligament that connects the heel bone to the toes and can lead to heel and arch pain. 

If you are pregnant and are experiencing pain or discomfort in your feet, it is recommended that you consult with a chiropodist. 

Common Foot Problems During Pregnancy

The major changes that occur during pregnancy can affect the entire body, including the feet and ankles. One of the most common pregnancy foot problems is foot swelling caused by fluid retention. Another is flat feet. During pregnancy, the ligaments throughout the body tend to relax, including those in the arch of the foot. This can cause the arch to flatten, increasing your shoe size and potentially leading to foot soreness, discomfort, or pain. To help ease this pain, make sure to wear comfortable shoes. It is also important to rest your feet when possible, and resting the feet above the hips can help with circulation. To learn more about common pregnancy foot problems and what you can do to alleviate them, please consult with a chiropodist. 

Pregnancy can affect your feet in many ways, often causing pain or discomfort, as well as reduced mobility. If you are pregnant and experience foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

During pregnancy, your belly isn’t the only part of your body swelling. The whole body may experience swelling, especially in the feet and ankles. Since they carry the weight of both your body and the baby’s, caring for your feet during pregnancy is very important. 

Common Foot Conditions During Pregnancy

Various foot conditions can develop during the course of a pregnancy, including: 

  • Swelling of the feet and ankles

  • Fallen arches, leading to acquired flat feet

  • Plantar fasciitis 

  • Aching, sore feet

  • Changes in the toenails

Caring for the Feet During Pregnancy

Some things that you can do to help maintain the health of your feet during pregnancy include: 

  • Wearing comfortable shoes

  • Resting and elevating your feet

  • Icing sore areas, such as the arch

  • Keeping your toenails trimmed

  • Soaking and massaging the feet

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

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Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?

Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!

Tips on Finding the Perfect Shoe For You

Wearing the right shoes is important for more reasons than your appearance - it can also benefit the health of your feet. Ill-fitting, unsupportive, and uncomfortable shoes can cause or contribute to many foot problems, including bunions, corns, calluses, and hammertoes. Comfortable, supportive, and properly fitted shoes, on the other hand, can prevent and relieve foot pain. 

When shopping for shoes, there are several things to keep in mind. It is best to try on shoes prior to purchasing them. Your feet swell throughout the day and are at their largest in the late afternoon or early evening. It is best to try on shoes at this time to ensure that they will fit your feet throughout the day. Having both feet measured in a shoe store can also help ensure that you get the right size. Your feet grow and change throughout your lifetime, even in adulthood, so your shoe size can change. When you are trying on shoes, be sure to walk around the store in them to see how they fit. If you wear orthotic inserts, bring them with you when you go shopping so you can try them out in the various shoes you try on. 

But what kinds of shoes should you look for? It’s best to avoid shoes that have excessively high heels and narrow or pointed toes, which can increase the pressure on your toe joints and cause foot deformities. A wide toe area that allows you to wiggle your toes will likely be more comfortable. Shoes with a soft but rigid back will prevent your heel from slipping while you walk. You should also look for shoes with adequate cushioning that are made with breathable materials.

For more information about how to find the right shoes for you, please consult with a chiropodist. 

Tips to Find the Right Shoe for You

Going shoe shopping can be difficult. There are many factors to consider when purchasing a new pair of shoes. One of the most important factors is the correct size shoe. A quality-made and comfortable shoe should fit your foot properly. Having the right fit can also relieve and prevent certain foot conditions. To find the right size shoe, it is helpful to shop at a brick-and-mortar shoe store. Here, a salesperson can measure your foot and ensure you try on the correct size shoes. It is recommended to go shoe shopping towards the end of the day, when the feet tend to be at their largest due to natural swelling. Buying shoes that fit your feet when they are at their largest, will ensure that they fit comfortably throughout the day. It is also suggested that you wear the socks you intend to wear with the shoes. When you try on the shoes, walk around the store and make sure they feel comfortable. For more tips on how to find the right shoes for you, consult with a chiropodist today. 

Finding the right shoes for you can ensure your comfort and help maintain proper foot health. If you suffer from foot pain and need help finding the right shoes for you, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Tips to Find Great Shoes 

Finding shoes that are well-fitting, supportive, and comfortable can be key in maintaining your overall foot health, but can sometimes seem like a monumental task. 

Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when shopping for shoes. 

  • Shop in a brick and mortar store - Your shoe size can change throughout your lifetime. You will be able to try on shoes before you buy them to ensure a proper fit. A salesperson can also provide recommendations on what shoes best serve your specific needs.

  • Try shoes on at the end of the day - Your feet swell throughout the day. By trying shoes on in the evening when the feet are at their largest, you ensure a good fit and shoes that are comfortable all day.

  • Have your feet measured - Find the right fit by having your feet measured at the shoe store. A salesperson can help by measuring both feet with a Brannock device to determine your true size. 

  • Opt for comfort and support - Some shoes, such as high heels and flip flops, may look great but can cause damage to the feet over time. Look for shoes that have a low heel, adequate arch support, a wide toe box, and are made of breathable materials. 

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

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