The Achilles tendon is known to be the largest tendon in the body. It is located in the back of the leg and connects the calf to the heel. An injury to this tendon can cause severe pain and discomfort, and can happen for a variety of reasons. These can include wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, improperly warming up before running, or increasing a workout intensity too quickly. The common symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury can consist of swelling in the heel and surrounding areas, and it may be difficult to walk and stand. After a proper diagnosis is made, which generally consists of having an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI performed, the correct treatment can begin. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who will determine what the best treatment is for you.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. 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
Rupture Symptoms
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:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
Unlike a strain, which is an injury to muscle or tendon tissue, a sprain occurs when there is an injury to a ligament. Ankle sprains can be categorized as being Grade 1, Grade 2, or Grade 3. A Grade 1 sprain means the fibers of a ligament have been stretched, not torn, whereas a Grade 2 sprain means the ligament has been partially torn. Grade 3 sprains are described as an injury that causes a ligament to completely tear or rupture. Common symptoms of an ankle sprain include bruising, pain, and swelling of the affected area. For a proper diagnosis and information on how to treat a sprain, please consult with a podiatrist.
Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. 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 are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.
What Are the Symptoms?
Preventing a Sprain
Treatment of a Sprain
In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Heel pain is usually an overuse injury. One common source of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which occurs when the plantar fascia, the tissue connecting the heel to the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. Another source of heel pain is Achilles tendonitis, and this is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Heel spurs, which are a bony growth at the bottom of the heel, are also common sources of heel pain. Other factors that can lead to heel pain include stress fractures, tarsal tunnel syndrome, wear and tear of the heel pad, and heel bursitis. If you are suffering from any type of heel pain, it is important to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Causes of Heel Pain
Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.
Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.
Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.
Why Might Heel Pain Occur?
Treatments
Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Many patients experience pain on the top of the foot. This can be a result of a fracture or sprain, and typically causes severe pain and discomfort. The fifth metatarsal is a bone that is located on the outside of the foot, and connects the little toe to the center of the foot. There are three types of fractures that can occur in this area of the foot. The middle of this bone may be affected if the foot twists unexpectedly, which is known as a midshaft fracture. A Jones fracture can be a hairline fracture that is caused by repeated stress. The third type of break is known as an avulsion fracture, and this may happen when a ligament pulls the fifth metatarsal out of place. If you have any pain in your feet, it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist, who can effectively treat any type of foot pain.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
In podiatry, biomechanics involves assessing the structure, alignment and function of the feet. The foot provides us with the ability to walk upright and has developed to adapt to whatever surfaces we walk on. Because the average person takes between 5,000 and 18,000 steps in a single day, the foot can experience stress from repetitiveness, resulting in injury. While options such as orthotics can help prevent injury, paying special attention to the strength and flexibility of the feet allow their function to improve. Therefore, if you are actively on your feet, make sure to consult with a podiatrist to help find any predisposed issues.
If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Biomechanics in Podiatry
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
A History of Biomechanics
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.
The Tarsal Tunnel is a narrow tunnel in the ankle, next to the ankle bone, that serves as a pathway for nerves, veins, arteries and tendons. Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tibial nerve in this tunnel gets squeezed or pressed, resulting in multiple issues. One common cause of tarsal tunnel syndrome is flat feet because flat feet can cause the heel to turn outward and put pressure on the nerve. Additionally, a varicose vein, a cyst, a swollen tendon, or a bone spur can also put pressure on the nerve. Other causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include swelling from conditions such as an ankle sprain, diabetes, or arthritis. If you are experiencing a tingling or burning sensation, numbness, or a shooting pain in the foot, you may be experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, and it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Howard Waxman, DPM of Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
The plantar fascia is a thick band of fibrous tissue that connects the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. Since the plantar fascia works as a shock absorber and arch support, it can become painful when it is overloaded or overstressed. This pain is known as plantar fasciitis. Research has shown that pain is most commonly located on the inside of the heel and occurs during weight-bearing activities. A podiatrist will be able to examine the foot and heel for further issues, particularly a stress fracture. A podiatrist may also take X-rays or use an ultrasound machine to determine the extent of the injury. Some treatment options may include rest, a change in footwear, orthotics or physical therapy. If you believe that you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, it is important to check with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. Our doctor 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?
How Can It Be Treated?
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 Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
An ankle sprain is one of the most common sports injuries that occurs when ligaments that keep the ankle stable are damaged. Ankle sprains are commonly caused by a twist of the ankle, and athletes whose sports require frequent changes of direction are at a higher risk. Athletes who have previously sprained their ankle or are returning to action too soon are also at risk. When an ankle sprains, swelling and bruising will occur quickly, and a podiatrist will likely need to take an X-ray to make sure that the ankle isn’t broken. Most simple ankle sprains are treated with ice and support like a wrap, brace or walking boot. Crutches may be needed as well, in order to keep weight off of the injured ankle. If you believe you have sprained your ankle, make sure to consult with a podiatrist for proper treatment. A podiatrist will also be able to make sure that there are not more extensive injuries, and they can provide help to prevent future ankle sprains.
Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Howard Waxman, DPM from Pleasant Valley Podiatry. 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?
Preventing a Sprain
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 one of our offices located in Willoughby Hills and Broadview Heights, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Theme - Default