Items filtered by date: May 2021

An Achilles tendon injury can cause severe pain and many people even experience difficulty walking. This tendon is located at the back of the leg and connects the calf muscles to the heel. An injury to this tendon can happen suddenly by twisting the leg, or it may gradually develop because of tendon weakness. Some of the symptoms that patients associate with this injury include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the heel, as well as limited mobility. Resting the affected foot is recommended as the healing process takes place, in addition to performing specific stretches. Some ways to help reduce the risk of an Achilles tendon injury is by wearing shoes that fit correctly, warming up and stretching properly before and after strenuous activities, and it is important to rest in between workouts. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury it is suggested that you speak to a podiatrist who can offer you various treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our doctors of Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. 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 South Amboy, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The outer portion of the ankle is stabilized by a group of ligaments. When these ligaments are injured, and especially when they are injured repeatedly, the ankle can become unstable and cause chronic pain. In fact, nearly half of all patients who experience an ankle sprain report persistent pain and instability in the affected ankle. The symptoms of a chronic ankle sprain include swelling and bruising around the ankle, crackling noises from the ankle while walking, stiffness in the ankle joint, and pain around the bony bump on the outside of the ankle. If you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist, who can help you recover from your sprain and offer advice on how to prevent reinjury. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our doctors from Favor Foot Ankle Leg & Wound Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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