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The Achilles tendon is the thick cord at the back of the ankle that connects the calf muscle to the heel. It plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping. Two common Achilles tendon injuries are tendinopathy and rupture. Achilles tendinopathy develops when repeated small tears do not heal properly, weakening the tendon. A rupture occurs when the tendon stretches beyond its natural range and tears. Achilles tendon injuries may cause pain, swelling, and weakness around the back of the ankle, making everyday movement more difficult.

Achilles tendinopathy can cause tenderness along the tendon, stiffness after periods of rest, and pain during walking or jumping. Overloading or weakening the tendon can contribute to this problem. A sudden change in physical activity may increase strain, while limited recovery time between activities can also play a role. Tight or weak calf muscles are another possible factor. An Achilles rupture often happens when a sudden force is placed on the tendon, such as during jumping or a quick burst of running. A person may feel as though something struck the back of the ankle and may hear a popping sound when the tendon tears.

A podiatrist can evaluate Achilles tendon pain and determine the type and severity of the injury. The examination may include checking the tendon and calf while assessing foot and ankle function. Ultrasound or MRI imaging may be used to confirm the problem. Most Achilles tendon injuries do not require surgery, although a torn tendon may occasionally need surgical repair. Rehabilitation is often part of recovery, and the amount of time needed can vary with age, activity level, and overall health. Professional evaluation is important when pain is severe, swelling develops, or weakness makes foot movement difficult. If Achilles tendon pain or weakness is affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle 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 our office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

As you get older, your feet naturally change. Aging feet may become wider, flatter, or less flexible as muscles, tendons, and fat padding gradually change. These changes can affect balance, comfort, and walking. Common signs include foot stiffness, swelling, and increased sensitivity. Some changes are normal, but new pain or noticeable changes should not simply be blamed on age. Choosing supportive shoes and checking your feet regularly can help you notice problems before they become more difficult to manage.

Toenails can also look different over time. They may become thicker, harder, or yellow. Slower nail growth can make minor injuries take longer to grow out. Skin may become thinner and drier as natural oils decrease. Cracks can develop around the heels, while reduced sensation can make small injuries harder to notice. Proper moisturizing and regular nail care can help protect aging feet.

Circulation is another important part of foot health. Blood flow can become less efficient with age, especially when underlying health conditions are present. Diabetes, peripheral artery disease, and other conditions can increase the risk of foot problems. Smoking, inactivity, and previous foot injuries can also raise risk. Warning signs include persistent swelling, cold feet, or pain while walking.

A podiatrist can help distinguish normal aging from problems that require treatment. During an evaluation, the podiatrist may inspect the skin and toenails, check circulation, and examine foot structure. Treatment depends on the findings and may include nail care, skin care, or management of pressure areas. Regular foot checks are especially helpful when underlying health conditions increase risk. If you notice changes in your feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM of Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Ankle pain can make walking, working, and other daily activities uncomfortable. Ankle problems are common and may begin after an injury, such as tripping or rolling the ankle. Pain can also develop from a flare-up of an existing problem or weakness in the muscles surrounding the joint. Soft-tissue injuries are another frequent cause. Soft tissues include the ligaments, muscles, and tendons that help support and move the ankle. Depending on the problem, symptoms may include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Discomfort can also affect nearby areas of the foot or calf.

An ankle problem may change the way a person walks and sometimes cause a noticeable limp. Symptoms vary depending on the cause and severity of the problem. While many new ankle problems gradually improve, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention. Significant trauma, difficulty placing weight on the leg, or an ankle that appears misshapen should be professionally evaluated. Redness and warmth around the ankle accompanied by feeling feverish or unwell can indicate an infection. A calf that becomes hot, swollen, and tender is another reason to seek medical care. Persistent or worsening ankle pain should also receive professional attention.

A podiatrist can examine the ankle to determine whether the symptoms involve the muscles, ligaments, or tendons surrounding the joint. An evaluation may include reviewing how the problem started and checking the ankle for swelling, stiffness, and changes in movement. Understanding the cause of the pain allows the podiatrist to recommend appropriate treatment based on the individual problem. Professional care can also help address ankle problems that interfere with walking or continue to worsen. Early evaluation is especially important after significant injuries or when symptoms suggest a more serious problem. If ankle pain, swelling, or stiffness continues to affect your mobility, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Foot injuries are a problem in construction, where workers face demanding surfaces and changing conditions. Wearing the wrong shoes can increase stress on the feet and ankles, and make movement less secure. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, or difficulty walking. Construction workers may experience injuries suddenly when they lose stability. Wearing proper footwear can help support safer movement.

Construction sites can create hazards for feet and ankles. Wet surfaces may become slippery, causing a sudden loss of stability and increasing the chance of a twist or fall. Poorly designed shoes may lack adequate slip resistance, making it harder to maintain traction. Additionally, insufficient cushioning can increase impact on the heels and joints during long hours of standing. Risk factors include worn-out soles, improper shoe size, and footwear that does not match site conditions.

Choosing slip-resistant work shoes is an important safety step. Look for sturdy footwear with soles designed to maintain traction on wet or uneven surfaces. Proper cushioning can help absorb impact and reduce daily stress on the feet. A podiatrist can evaluate pain after an injury and determine whether imaging is needed. Treatment may involve wearing protective footwear or immobilization. The podiatrist can also assess walking mechanics and recommend custom orthotics when needed.

Foot and ankle injuries should not be ignored if pain continues after leaving the construction site. A podiatrist can check for fractures, ligament damage, and other conditions that may affect safety and mobility. Early treatment can support healing and help prevent a minor injury from becoming a lasting problem. Workers can reduce risks by replacing damaged shoes and keeping footwear appropriate for job conditions. If you have foot or ankle injuries from working in construction, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Chukwuma Ukata, DPM from Advanced Carolina Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Garner, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.