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Causes and Symptoms of Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis occurs when the thick tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone becomes inflamed from overuse or strain. This tendon plays a key role in walking, running, and pushing off the toes, which makes it vulnerable to injury from repetitive motion or sudden increases in activity. Common causes of Achilles tendonitis include running on hard surfaces, training without proper warm-up, and wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Flat feet, bone spurs on the heel, and certain health conditions can increase the risk of Achilles tendon irritation. Symptoms include pain or stiffness in the back of the ankle, swelling, warmth, and difficulty standing on the toes. Morning stiffness is especially common. If left untreated, inflammation may progress to tendinosis, where the tendon begins to degenerate. In severe cases, a rupture may occur and require surgery. If you are experiencing symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. 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 one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Symptoms and Risk Factors of a Heel Spur

A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the underside of the heel bone due to long-term stress on the foot. It often develops when the plantar fascia becomes strained, leading to inflammation and calcium buildup. Symptoms include sharp heel pain, tenderness, and discomfort when standing or walking. Among the common causes are repetitive impact, flat feet, high arches, or wearing improper footwear. Risk factors include obesity, aging, and activities that place constant pressure on the heel. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, provide imaging, if needed, and recommend such treatments as supportive shoes, custom orthotics, stretching plans, and pain relief strategies. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose heel spurs and offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

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Fighting Athlete’s Foot for Healthier Skin

Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, particularly between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, showers, and sweaty shoes. Symptoms often include itching, burning, redness, and peeling skin. In some cases, blisters or cracks may form, causing pain or discomfort when walking. The infection may also cause a strong odor and can spread to the toenails or other parts of the body if left untreated. A podiatrist can diagnose athlete’s foot through a physical examination and, if needed, laboratory testing to identify the specific fungus. Treatment may involve antifungal creams, powders, oral medication, and guidance on proper foot hygiene and footwear choices. Early treatment helps prevent the infection from spreading and recurring. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to receive professional care and effective treatment for athlete’s foot. 

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard from Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

  • Hydrate your feet by using lotion
  • Exfoliate
  • Buff off nails
  • Use of anti-fungal products
  • Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Marlboro and Watchung, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Understanding Bunions

Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, are painful bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe when the top of toe shifts toward the other toes. The condition is often caused by genetic factors, wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, or prolonged pressure on the foot. Over time, this misalignment can lead to pain, swelling, and redness around the affected area. Symptoms often worsen with walking or standing for long periods, and the big toe may become stiff or difficult to move. Treatment for bunions varies depending on the severity. Non-surgical options include wearing wider shoes, using bunion pads, or taking anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to realign the bones. A podiatrist can assess the condition, recommend appropriate treatment, and provide guidance on footwear or foot exercises. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Dr. Ronald Sheppard of Warren-Watchung Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

  • Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
  • Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

  • Redness and inflammation
  • Pain and tenderness
  • Callus or corns on the bump
  • Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

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Heel Pain Can Be Treated!

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

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