The Achilles tendon is the largest tendon in the body and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, allowing us to walk, run, and jump. An Achilles tendon injury occurs when the tendon is strained, stretched, or torn. Typically, injuries manifest through pain and stiffness along the back of the leg, near the heel or calf area. Individuals with an Achilles tendon injury may experience localized swelling, tenderness, or warmth around the affected area. In some cases, a noticeable snapping sound may accompany the injury, indicating a severe tear. Pain can worsen during physical activity, particularly when pushing off the foot or standing on tiptoes. Understanding these symptoms is vital for timely medical intervention and appropriate rehabilitation to ensure a swift recovery and regain the functionality of the Achilles tendon. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Wendy L. Grossman, DPM of New Jersey. Our doctor 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 Bloomfield, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Podiatrists, also known as Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, or DPM, are foot specialists who diagnose and treat issues related to the feet, ankles, and lower leg. Becoming a podiatrist involves rigorous training, which includes four years of education at a podiatric medical school. Aspiring podiatrists then gain practical experience through a three-year residency in hospitals and clinics. They also must pass exams to receive certification from the American Board of Podiatric Medicine. Some podiatrists choose to specialize further by pursuing fellowship training to become specialists in their field. Podiatric surgeons, a subset of podiatrists, are required to earn certification from the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery, which enables them to perform foot surgeries. To practice legally, podiatrists must obtain and renew state licenses and stay updated with annual seminars to maintain their expertise. To find out more about joining this medical field, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Wendy L. Grossman, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.
What Do Podiatrists Do?
On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:
Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
Use innovative methods to treat conditions
Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
Correct walking patterns and balance
Provide individual consultations to patients
It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Bloomfield, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
When it comes to high heels, opinions vary widely. Some find them elegant and empowering, while others associate them with discomfort. If you belong to the latter group, it might be because you have not discovered the right heel height for your feet. Comfort varies from person to person, depending on foot shape, shoe type, and experience with heels. The average heel height is around 3 inches, falling into the mid-height range. Low heels are 1 to 2 inches, while high heels are 3 to 4 inches. Finding your ideal heel height may require some experimentation. It's a good idea to prioritize foot health and alternate between heels and flats. To measure heel height, place the shoe on a flat surface and measure from the bottom of the heel to where it connects to the shoe. If you would like to wear heels, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to get advice on wearing this type of shoe for your particular feet and prioritizing style and comfort.
High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Wendy L. Grossman, DPM from New Jersey. Our doctor 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?
Ankle Joints
Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
Balls of the Feet
Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain. The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.
What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?
Corns
Calluses
Hammertoe
Bunions
Morton’s Neuroma
Plantar Fasciitis
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 our office located in Bloomfield, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
