The Achilles tendon is the thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone and helps you walk, run, and jump. Although it is the strongest tendon in the body, it is often injured during sports that involve sprinting, jumping, or sudden changes in direction. One common problem is Achilles tendinopathy, which means the tendon becomes irritated and damaged from overuse. This leads to pain, swelling, and reduced strength. In more severe cases, the tendon can tear completely, called a rupture. This may cause a sudden, sharp pain in the back of the ankle and difficulty pushing off the foot. A podiatrist can perform a detailed exam, order ultrasound or MRI scans, and determine whether bracing, activity modification, or surgery is appropriate. Early diagnosis helps reduce long-term weakness and stiffness. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our clinicians of The Footcare Centre. Our podiatrists 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 office located in Weybridge, UK . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain affects the underside or back of the heel and can interfere with daily activities. The most frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes. Symptoms include sharp pain with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Other causes include heel pad syndrome, which involves thinning or inflammation of the protective fat pad, and Achilles tendinopathy, which produces pain and stiffness at the back of the heel. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine the exact cause, and provide personalized treatment. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our clinicians of The Footcare Centre. Our podiatrists 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?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

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 feel free to contact our office located in Weybridge, UK . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A podiatrist specializes in the care of the feet, ankles, and lower legs. This includes diagnosing and treating injuries, chronic conditions, and structural problems that affect how people walk and move. Podiatrists care for issues such as heel pain, bunions, ingrown toenails, fungal infections, arthritis, and sports-related injuries. They also play an important role in managing diabetic foot problems, nerve conditions, and wounds that require close monitoring. Beyond treating pain, podiatrists focus on prevention and long-term foot health. They may recommend footwear changes, custom orthotics, stretching programs, or lifestyle adjustments to reduce stress on the feet and joints. Many podiatrists also perform in-office procedures and surgery, when needed, to restore function and comfort. If you have ongoing foot or ankle concerns, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact one of our clinicians from The Footcare Centre. Our podiatrists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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

Orthotics can be an effective solution for anyone with flat feet because they provide stability, support, and improved alignment. Customized orthotics are often better than standard inserts because they are created to match both typical and atypical foot structures. They can be adjusted over time to ensure continued comfort as your needs change. Proper support can reduce pain in the feet, ankles, knees, and lower back, making daily activities more comfortable. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot structure, recommend the right type of orthotic, and make any needed modifications for the best results. If you have discomfort from flat feet or want better support, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to explore personalized orthotic options.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our clinicians from The Footcare Centre. Our podiatrists can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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