Items filtered by date: October 2024

Achilles tendon tears occur when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone is overstretched or ruptured, often during activities that involve sudden movements or intense stress, such as jumping or sprinting. Common causes include sports injuries, falls, or sudden increases in physical activity without proper conditioning. Risk factors include aging, tight calf muscles, and certain medications that weaken the tendon. Symptoms of an Achilles tendon tear include a sharp pain in the back of the ankle, swelling, difficulty walking, and an inability to push off the foot or stand on tiptoes. Some may hear a pop sound at the moment of injury. Diagnosis is typically made through physical examination, where a gap in the tendon may be felt, along with imaging tests like ultrasounds or MRI scans. Treatment options range from rest and immobilization in mild cases to surgery for more severe tears. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetes can significantly impact foot health, primarily through a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This occurs when high blood sugar levels damage the nerves in the feet, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain. In severe cases, diabetic patients might experience a loss of sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or infections. Additionally, poor circulation can slow down healing, which increases the risk of ulcers and infections. Proper management of blood sugar levels is key to preventing these complications. Regular foot inspections, wearing proper footwear, and daily foot care can help mitigate the effects. Treatment often involves managing diabetes effectively, controlling pain with medications, and in some cases, foot exercises. To ensure optimal foot health and address any concerns, it is suggested you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for specialized care and preventive strategies tailored to your needs.
 

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor circulation in the legs and feet, often due to peripheral artery disease, or PAD, occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow. Symptoms include coldness, numbness, tingling, cramping, or pain in the legs or feet, particularly while walking. The skin may appear pale or bluish, and slow-healing wounds or sores can develop on the lower extremities. Diagnosis involves a physical exam, checking pulses in the feet, and tests to measure blood pressure differences between the arms and legs. Ultrasound or angiography may also be used to evaluate blood flow. Treatment aims to improve circulation through lifestyle changes like exercise and managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. Medications may be prescribed, and in severe cases, procedures to open or bypass blocked arteries are necessary. If you have symptoms of poor circulation in your feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help manage symptoms and prevent complications like foot ulcers or infections.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Bergen Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Lee, NJ and Flushing, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.