Achilles Tendinopathy and Podiatric Relief

Achilles tendinopathy affects the strongest and largest tendon in the body. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. The problem develops when this tendon becomes irritated or degenerates due to overuse, repetitive strain, or sudden increases in physical activity. Common causes include tight calf muscles, wearing poor footwear, flat feet, and excessive running or jumping. Individuals may experience stiffness, swelling, or pain along the back of the ankle that worsens with activity. A podiatrist can assess the severity of the condition, recommend stretching and strengthening exercises, and provide custom orthotics for support. If you have sustained an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. 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 office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Is My Toe Bruised or Broken?

A broken toe is a fracture in one of the small bones of the toe, often caused by stubbing it hard, dropping something heavy on it, or sustaining a sports injury. In many cases both bruising and breaking result in pain and swelling. However, a broken toe typically causes sharper pain, possible deformity, and trouble walking, whereas bruising usually improves with rest and time. Proper diagnosis is important to prevent long-term problems, such as stiffness or misalignment. A podiatrist can confirm the injury with X-rays and provide treatment that  includes splinting, taping, or special footwear for protection. Do not ignore persistent pain or swelling. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Healthy Feet and Healthy Life With Diabetes

Daily foot care is vital for people with diabetes, as poor circulation and nerve damage can make feet more vulnerable to infection and injury. Wash your feet every day with warm water and mild soap, then dry thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal growth. Moisturize dry skin to avoid cracking, but never apply lotion between toes. Check feet daily for blisters, cuts, or color changes, using a mirror if needed. Always wear clean, well-fitted socks and supportive shoes to protect against pressure points and sores. Trim nails carefully, straight across, to prevent ingrown toenails. Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors, and keep blood sugar levels in check to support healthy circulation. If you notice swelling, redness, or wounds that do not heal promptly, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and professional diabetic foot care to prevent complications and maintain mobility.

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 Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. 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

  • Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
  • Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
  • Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

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 our office located in Plymouth, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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The Right Dance Shoes for Healthy Feet

Different dance styles require specific shoes designed for support and performance. Ballet slippers and pointe shoes emphasize flexibility and precision, while jazz, tap, and ballroom shoes provide stability and movement control. A proper shoe fit is essential to prevent pain and injury, especially since dancers have unique foot shapes such as square, Greek, or Egyptian feet. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can contribute to posterior ankle impingement, anterior ankle strain, and medial ankle injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend proper footwear, and treat dance-related injuries to keep feet strong and balanced. If foot pain or discomfort is affecting your dance performance, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on the correct shoes to wear for your desired style of dance.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Greater Boston Foot Care, PLLC. Our doctors will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

  • When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
  • Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
  • Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
  • Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
  • If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

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