Powering Through Pain in the Achilles Tendon

Athletes who rely on running, jumping, or sudden changes in direction may experience pain in the Achilles tendon, the strong band connecting the calf muscles to the heel. This condition often appears as swelling or thickening along the back of the heel and can feel stiff, tender, or sharp during activity. Common causes include overuse, sudden increases in training intensity, tight calf muscles, or improper footwear. Symptoms may worsen with activity and improve with rest, yet persistent pain can limit performance. A podiatrist begins with a detailed exam and imaging when needed to assess tendon integrity and rule out tears. Treatment may include stretching and strengthening exercises to restore flexibility and support, orthotics or heel lifts to reduce strain, and activity modification. Early intervention can prevent further injury and speed recovery. If you have Achilles tendon pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. 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 offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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An Overview of Corns and Foot Health

Corns are thickened areas of skin that develop from repeated pressure or friction on the feet. They often appear as small hardened bumps and may cause pain or tenderness, especially when walking. Common symptoms include discomfort, redness, and sensitivity in the affected area. Corns are often caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, abnormal foot structure, or repetitive motion. Risk factors include high arches, toe deformities, and prolonged standing or walking. There are different types of corns, including hard corns that form on the tops or sides of toes and soft corns that develop between toes where moisture is present. If you have developed a corn, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can safely remove corns, address underlying causes, and recommend proper footwear or custom orthotics. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

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

  • Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
  • Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
  • Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Read more about Corns: What Are They, and How Do You Get Rid of Them

Do Your Child's Feet Hurt?

Have your child's feet been examined lately? Healthy feet are happy feet. If your child is complaining of foot pain, it may be a sign of underlying problems.

Dealing With Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle joint stretch or tear. This injury is often caused by sudden twists, falls, uneven surfaces, or sports activities that put stress on the joint. The ankle may look swollen, bruised, or slightly deformed, and in severe cases it may appear unstable or misaligned. Many individuals feel sharp pain at the time of injury, followed by tenderness, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight or walking normally. Up to 70 percent of ankle sprains affect the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle, and repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability if not treated properly. A podiatrist can start by evaluating the ankle, checking the range of motion, and using imaging if needed to rule out fractures. Treatment may include elevation, bracing, targeted exercises, and guidance on safe return to activity. Prompt professional care helps reduce recovery time and prevent long-term complications. If you experience persistent ankle pain or swelling after an injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Cary Golub, DPM from New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

  • Mild to moderate bruising
  • Limited mobility
  • Swelling
  • Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

  • Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
  • Stretching before exercises and sports
  • Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Williston Park, and Long Beach, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Three Grades of Ankle Sprains

Sesamoiditis Causes and Symptoms

Sesamoiditis is a painful foot condition that affects the sesamoid bones, which are two small bones located beneath the base of the big toe. These bones help absorb pressure and assist with movement during walking and push off. When they become inflamed, pain can develop around the ball of the foot, especially under the base of the big toe. Common symptoms include aching or sharp pain while walking, standing, or bending the toe, along with swelling and tenderness in the area. Sesamoiditis is often caused by repetitive stress, high impact activities, or increased pressure on the forefoot. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, recommend activity modification, provide protective padding or orthotics, and develop a treatment plan to reduce inflammation. If you have pain under your big toe, it is suggested you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat what may be going on.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Cary Golub, DPM of New York. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
  • Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Read more about Sesamoiditis

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