Items filtered by date: June 2020

The Achilles tendon connects the heel to the calf muscles. It is located in the back of the leg, near the foot, and is responsible for the ability to point and flex the foot. An injury can cause the Achilles tendon to become ruptured or injured, and this generally causes severe pain and discomfort. Some of the symptoms that many patients can experience include sharp pain at the time of the injury, bruising, swelling, and it is often difficult to walk. This type of injury can happen as a result of participating in running and jumping movements, or if a new activity begins suddenly. Effective treatments can include wearing a brace or cast as the healing process occurs, and in severe tears, surgery may be necessary. If you have pain in your calf, it is strongly advised that you speak to a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can treat an Achilles tendon injury.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM of Advanced Podiatry Associates. 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 Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Thursday, 25 June 2020 00:00

It's Time for Beautiful Feet

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

Monday, 22 June 2020 00:00

Plantar Warts Are Caused by a Virus

Plantar warts develop on the bottom of the feet. They grow into the sole of the foot as pressure is endured from walking during the day, and can cause severe pain and discomfort. They appear as small, hardened areas, and may have black dots in the center. These develop as a result of blood vessels that grow inside the wart. Plantar warts are caused by a virus that lives and thrives in warm and moist environments. These types of places can include public swimming pools, shower room floors, and locker rooms. Patients who have a weakened immune system may be prone to getting plantar warts, in addition to people who have a history of developing this type of wart. It is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist if you have a plantar wart, who can determine what the best course of treatment is for you.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

  • Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
  • Hard or thick callused spots
  • Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
  • Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

  • Freezing
  • Electric tool removal
  • Laser Treatment
  • Topical Creams (prescription only)
  • Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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A nerve tissue that has become thickened is referred to as a neuroma. If the tissue that is found between the toes near the ball of the foot becomes inflamed, it is a condition that is known as Morton’s neuroma. It can happen as a result of wearing shoes that are too narrow, or from participating in sporting activities where pressure is placed on the front of the foot. Additionally, it may develop from existing foot deformities that can include flat feet and bunions. A noticeable symptom that patients could have is a burning pain on the sole of the foot, which may travel to the toes. Mild relief may be found when orthotics are worn, and this may give the affected foot the support that is needed as the pressure is reduced. It can be beneficial to avoid wearing high heels, and choosing to wear shoes that are wider in the toe area may be more comfortable. If you have a sharp pain on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat Morton’s neuroma.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM of Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

  • Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
  • Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
  • Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Monday, 08 June 2020 00:00

Rheumatoid Arthritis and the Feet

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory form of arthritis that can create complications with the feet. This condition may cause swelling within the joints of the feet, making it very painful to complete daily tasks. Other symptoms include joint stiffness, fatigue, muscle pain, and numbness. Some risk factors for developing rheumatoid arthritis include genetics, bacteria and viruses, physical trauma, and obesity. In order to treat this condition, it may be beneficial to visit a doctor for prescribed medication, partake in physical therapy, and in more severe cases, surgery. It’s been said that having a well balanced diet may help relieve some of the symptoms associated with this condition. For a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan, it’s suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for professional care.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

  • Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
  • Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
  • Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Monday, 01 June 2020 00:00

Where Is the Plantar Fascia?

Many types of athletes are familiar with the medical condition that is referred to as plantar fasciitis. It is the result of an injury that can happen from frequent running, or from standing on hard surfaces for extended periods of time. The portion of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot which connects the heel to the toes is known as the plantar fascia. If this tissue becomes damaged, it can cause severe pain and discomfort, and it may be difficult to complete daily activities. Orthotics can be prescribed that may bring relief, and this can help to reduce some of the pressure on the inflamed tissue. If you feel pain in the heel or Achilles tendon, it is advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can determine if you have plantar fasciitis, and offer treatment techniques that are correct for you.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact David A. Edmonds, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Northampton and Allentown, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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