Items filtered by date: October 2023

Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury that begins as a mild ache in the back of the leg or above the heel after running or other sporting activity. A key symptom of Achilles tendonitis is the sensation of pain, primarily felt in the calf muscles and extending down to the ankle. Stiffness in the calf muscles from this condition can limit the flexibility of the foot and make simple movements challenging. In some cases, bumps or nodules may form around the tendon, which can also be tender to the touch. In addition, the ankle joint may begin to swell. A podiatrist may use several diagnostic techniques to confirm the presence of the Achilles tendonitis. X-rays are typically the initial step to rule out other potential causes, but they cannot provide a direct view of the tendon. Ultrasound imaging is extremely beneficial, as it offers clear, real-time visuals of the tendon's internal structure. In severe cases, or when surgical intervention is under consideration, an MRI test is conducted to produce detailed images of the tendon's condition. Projection radiography is sometimes used to identify calcification deposits within the tendon, which can be responsible for up to 60 percent of Achilles tendonitis cases. If you suspect you may be suffering from Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and suggestions on effective treatment methods.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. 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 one of our offices located in Rogers, AR or Berryville, AR. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain, often due to plantar fasciitis, results from chronic overuse of the plantar fascia, a thick tissue on the foot's sole that connects the heel bone to the toes and forms the arch. The most common symptom is heel pain which is typically at its worst with the first few steps after awakening. Causes encompass overuse, biomechanical abnormalities, tight or weak calf muscles, and big toe issues. Diagnosis involves a physical exam and may require imaging. This can be quite painful and interfere with comfortable functioning. It is better to try and prevent this condition than to experience it and have it treated. Preventative measures include calf stretching, plantar fascia stretches, weight management, supportive footwear, and possibly using custom-made orthotics. If you have heel pain or would like to know more about preventing it, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide treatment and any information that can help you take the best care of your feet.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Rogers, AR or Berryville, AR. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If left untreated, corns on the feet can lead to various complications. Corns are thickened areas of skin caused by friction and pressure, which can become painful and result in infections. This can happen when bacteria enter through cracks in the skin or if the corn is cut or punctured. Infections can lead to more serious problems, including septic arthritis or infection of nearby bone tissue. Corns left untreated can also trigger severe pain, causing individuals to alter their posture. This can affect how pressure is distributed while walking. Individuals with diabetes may have reduced sensation in their feet due to nerve damage. This means they might not notice small cuts or corns. If corns are left untreated in people with diabetes, it can lead to complications like those previously mentioned, in addition to tissue death known as gangrene. To prevent these complications, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to seek treatment if corns become painful. This foot expert can provide proper care to help avoid serious complications from corns.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as wearing:

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctors to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Rogers, AR or Berryville, AR. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

If you have ever experienced pain or discomfort or unusual changes in the shape of your toes, you may be dealing with a foot condition known as hammertoe. This deformity occurs when one or more toe joints become bent, resembling the shape of a hammer. Hammertoe can cause other foot conditions, such as calluses or corns where your toe rubs against the inside of the shoe. Symptoms may include pain while wearing shoes, swelling, redness, or difficulty straightening your toe. The good news is that there are effective treatments to alleviate the discomfort caused by hammertoe. Start by choosing footwear with a soft, deep, and roomy toe box to reduce pressure on your toes. Shoe Inserts, cushioning pads, or taping can move the toe and ease the pain. Incorporating simple exercises into your daily routine can also help. Try toe crunches by scrunching a towel with your toes while keeping your heel planted. Or, gently stretch your toes by pulling them toward you using your hands or a towel. In severe cases, a surgical solution may be necessary to release the tendon that is keeping the toe curled up. If you are afflicted with hammertoe, it is suggested that you seek the help of a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Rogers, AR or Berryville, AR. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

When it comes to fitness, the majority of people focus on sculpting their biceps or toning their abs, often overlooking the feet, which are one of the most critical parts of the body. Foot muscle strengthening, however, offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just your feet. Strong foot muscles can enhance your balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries, in addition to contributing to better overall posture. When your feet are well-supported, it positively affects your alignment from the ground up. Strengthening the foot's arches and intrinsic muscles can also help to alleviate common foot problems such as plantar fasciitis and flat feet. Many athletes have found that stronger feet provide a solid foundation, and can improve their agility, speed, and power. Foot muscle strengthening can prevent overuse injuries that often occur due to weak or imbalanced foot muscles. Incorporating exercises consisting of toe scrunches, calf raises, and foot stretches into your routine can help you reap these benefits and maintain healthy, strong feet. If you would like to learn about how to perform specific foot stretches, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with the information you are seeking.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Family Foot Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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