Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendinosis are two distinct conditions affecting the Achilles tendon, each with different characteristics and causes. Achilles tendonitis is an acute inflammation of the tendon, often resulting from overuse or sudden increases in physical activity. Common symptoms include pain, swelling, and stiffness, particularly during movement. On the other hand, Achilles tendinosis refers to a chronic degeneration of the tendon due to prolonged stress and lack of proper healing. This condition often causes persistent pain and stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Causes of both conditions include repetitive strain from sports, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues like flat feet or high arches. If you have developed an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you toward the right treatment solutions for the type of condition you have.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. 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 Millburn, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails develop when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to discomfort and sometimes infection. Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing this condition, which usually affects the big toe. Common causes of ingrown toenails include improper trimming techniques, wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes, and repetitive trauma from sports or physical activities. People with naturally curved toenails or hereditary traits are more prone to having ingrown toenails. Medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and excessive sweating can also contribute, as they often affect nail and foot health. Deformities like bunions or flat feet may increase pressure on the toenails, raising the risk of ingrown toenails. A podiatrist can help by diagnosing your toe, offering advice on footwear, and providing necessary treatment, such as nail trimming or minor surgical procedures. If you frequently suffer from ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Intoeing, commonly referred to as pigeon toes, is a condition where a child's feet point inward when walking or standing. This alignment issue is often noticeable during infancy and can persist into later childhood. Factors that contribute to intoeing, include genetic predisposition and the natural development of the musculoskeletal system. In infants, intoeing may result from the position in the womb, as tight spaces can affect foot positioning. As children grow, it can be linked to conditions such as femoral anteversion, where the thigh bone is rotated inward, or tibial torsion, where the shinbone twists. While intoeing often improves as children grow, persistent cases may require evaluation by a podiatrist. If your child has this condition, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can effectively monitor intoeing.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Improving balance is an important way to reduce the risk of falls, especially as people age. Foot-related issues such as nerve damage, weakened muscles, and joint problems can disrupt balance and increase the risk of injury. Exercises that focus on foot strength and flexibility are helpful in maintaining stability. Finding supportive footwear that fits well can also make a significant difference by providing a stable base. A podiatrist can assess any medical conditions that affect your feet, such as fallen arches or neuropathy. Custom orthotics, certain exercises, or assistive devices can help to improve your balance. Scheduling regular foot check-ups is a good way to detect early signs of issues that might contribute to instability. Making small changes, such as decluttering walkways and ensuring adequate lighting, can reduce hazards at home. If you have fallen and have injured your foot or ankle, or at risk for falling, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from The Podiatry Center, PC. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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