The most common reason an Achilles tendon injury can happen is overuse. Many runners experience this type of injury, possibly as a result of increasing speed and distance too quickly. Additionally, it may happen from not stretching properly before running or jogging. The Achilles tendon is located in the lower calf area and connects the heel to the calf muscles. This type of injury generally causes severe pain and discomfort and can be challenging to walk. Additional symptoms associated with an Achilles tendon injury can include stiffness, swelling, and a burning sensation. An Achilles tendon injury may cause some patients to feel weak and existing calluses on their feet may change in size. This may be a result of the impact an Achilles tendon injury can have on the skin while walking. If you have incurred this type of injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can guide you toward the right treatment methods.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jeffrey P. Taylor, DPM of North Texas 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 Euless and Southlake, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The foot condition known as gout has affected millions of people worldwide. It generally occurs in middle-aged people, and it may result from specific medications. Gout can occur from eating foods that contain high levels of purines, including shellfish, red meat, and drinks made with large amounts of sugar. The excess purines convert to uric acid and can cause crystals to form in the joints of the big toe. The pain from gout can be debilitating, and it is often difficult to walk. Effective prevention methods for gout include drinking plenty of water daily, eating healthy foods, and frequently engaging in a gentle exercise routine. A diagnosis can consist of extracting a small sample of the fluid from between the joints of the big toe, followed by receiving proper relief and treatment techniques. If you experience gout attacks, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Jeffrey P. Taylor, DPM from North Texas Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

As the weather gets warmer, it’s time to put on sandals and flip-flops. However, experts point out that both of these types of footwear can be harmful to the health of your feet. In most cases, neither provides the amount of shock absorption to ward off stress fractures or plantar fasciitis, which is the most common cause of heel pain. In addition, wearing such non-supportive footwear for long periods can lead to other foot issues, including bunions and hammertoe. Further wearing sandals and flip-flops can permanently affect the way you walk, which in turn can cause problems with the knees, hips, and back. Cracked heels are another negative side effect of wearing sandals and flip-flops. The real danger of cracked heels is the possibility of developing fissures, which are deep crevices in the skin that invite fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. If you need more information on the dangers of summertime footwear, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist.

Flip-flops can cause a lot of problems for your feet. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Jeffrey P. Taylor, DPM from North Texas Podiatry Associates. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

Flip-Flops and Feet

Flip-flops have managed to become a summer essential for a lot of people. While the shoes may be stylish and easy to slip on and off, they can be dangerous to those who wear them too often. These shoes might protect you from fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, but they can also give you foot pain and sprained ankles if you trip while wearing them.

When Are They Okay to Wear?

Flip-flops should only be worn for very short periods of time. They can help protect your feet in places that are crawling with fungi, such as gym locker rooms. Athlete’s foot and plantar warts are two common fungi that flip-flops may help protect your feet against.

Why Are They Bad for My Feet?

These shoes do not offer any arch support, so they are not ideal for everyday use. They also do not provide shock absorption or heel cushioning which can be problematic for your feet. Additionally, you may suffer from glass cuts, puncture wounds, and stubbed toes since they offer little protection for your feet.

More Reasons Why They Are Bad for Your Feet

• They Slow You Down
• May Cause Blisters and Calluses
• Expose Your Feet to Bacteria

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