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Facts About Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles tendinitis develops when the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel becomes irritated. This tendon helps lift the heel when walking, running, and climbing stairs. Pain can occur where the tendon attaches to the heel bone or higher along the back of the ankle. Symptoms include morning stiffness, tenderness, and swelling. Pain can worsen after activity or when pushing off the foot. A sudden increase in exercise, repeated hill running, or tight calf muscles placing extra strain on the tendon. Wearing shoes that lack proper support can also contribute to the problem.

A podiatrist can determine whether the pain comes from Achilles tendinitis or another foot or ankle problem. An examination includes checking the painful area, ankle motion, and tendon strength. The podiatrist may also watch how the patient stands and walks. X-rays can reveal bone changes near the heel, while ultrasound or MRI scans can show damage within the tendon. Accurate diagnosis matters because similar symptoms can result from bursitis, a partial tendon tear, or a heel-bone prominence. Severe pain, sudden weakness, or a popping sensation requires prompt evaluation because these signs can point to a tendon rupture.

Treatment focuses on reducing strain, controlling irritation, and helping the tendon work safely again. A podiatrist may recommend temporary activity changes, heel lifts, or custom orthotics. Supportive shoes can also reduce tension on the painful area. In some cases, a walking boot may protect the tendon while irritation settles. The podiatrist can monitor healing and guide a gradual return to activity. Persistent cases may benefit from treatments that stimulate tissue repair. Surgery is generally reserved for tendon damage or pain that does not improve with other care. Early evaluation can keep the problem from becoming harder to manage and can lower the risk of further tendon injury. If you have symptoms of Achilles tendinitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of New Tampa 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 office located in Wesley Chapel, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about Achilles Tendon Injuries

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Excess Body Weight Can Affect Foot and Ankle Health

Excess body weight can place pressure on the feet and ankles with each step. Obesity is defined as having a body mass index, or BMI, of 30 or higher. This number is based on height and weight. Research links higher BMI levels with more foot problems. Extra weight can strain joints. This increases the risk of heel pain, arthritis, and tendon irritation. It can also raise the risk of type 2 diabetes, which can affect foot health. Even routine activities can become uncomfortable when the feet must support added pressure.

The effects of excess weight become noticeable when climbing stairs or walking uphill. These movements can place several times your body weight on the ankles. Foot pain may then make staying active more difficult, creating a frustrating cycle. Some patients develop soreness that limits how far they can walk. Others notice stiffness after standing for long periods. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, identify painful areas, and explain how body weight affects movement. This examination helps distinguish weight-related strain from other problems that need attention. Addressing discomfort makes it easier to pursue activity goals safely.

A podiatrist helps patients manage foot pain while working toward better mobility. Treatment options include recommendations for shoes with proper support, custom shoe inserts, and guided stretching. Custom shoe inserts, also called orthotics, help distribute pressure more evenly across the feet. A podiatrist can assess walking patterns and recommend changes to reduce strain. Weight management plays an important role in reducing stress on the ankles and feet. Because pain can interfere with exercise, a treatment plan should consider each patient's comfort and abilities. If you have symptoms of obesity-related foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

The more you weigh, the harder your feet must work to support your body. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

People who are overweight are putting more pressure on their ankles, knees, and hips as well as their feet. This unfortunately can lead to variety of different issues.

Problems & Complications Stemming from Obesity

  • When the body is overweight, it tries to compensate by changing the way that it moves. An obese person may lean forward and put extra weight on the wrong part of the foot. This puts unnecessary stress on the feet.
  • Obese people are also more likely to develop type II diabetes which is a condition that causes a lot of foot problems. People with diabetes often don’t feel the cuts and sores that they may have on their feet, which can lead to more complicated and severe issues.
  • Plantar fasciitis is another foot condition that can be caused by obesity. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, which causes pain and stiffness while walking and climbing stairs.

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

Read more about Obesity and the Feet

Choosing Running Shoes for Every Surface

Running shoes are more than a comfort choice. The right pair supports your feet while matching your running style and surface. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly or match your activity can contribute to foot and ankle injuries. Common problems include blisters, arch pain, and stress injuries. Symptoms may begin as soreness after running and become persistent. Runners who increase mileage quickly or have foot mechanics concerns may face greater risk. Worn-out shoes can reduce cushioning and stability.

Choosing running shoes starts with considering where you run. Paved paths are firm, so road-running shoes with cushioning and a stable base can provide suitable support. Hard-packed dirt requires traction and durable construction. Trail-running shoes are designed for uneven terrain and offer traction, protection, and stability. Additionally, cross-training shoes work well for gym workouts involving lateral movement or strength exercises, but they may not provide enough cushioning for distance running. A proper fit should allow comfortable toe movement without heel slipping.

 

If pain develops, a podiatrist can evaluate your feet, shoes, and walking pattern. Treatment depends on the injury and may include activity modification, wearing supportive footwear, or targeted care. The podiatrist may recommend replacing worn shoes and adjusting training surfaces. A gradual return can help symptoms improve. For significant injuries, diagnostic imaging may determine whether a tendon, ligament, or joint has been affected. Early evaluation can prevent a problem from becoming longer lasting.

 

The best running shoe should match your foot needs, training activities, and surface. Pay attention to comfort, fit, and signs of wear. Replace shoes when support declines rather than waiting for pain. If foot or ankle pain develops while wearing the wrong running shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips, and additional guidance on how to choose running shoes that are right for you. 

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from New Tampa Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

Read more about Differences between Walking and Running Shoes

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

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