Managing Achilles Tendon Bursitis
Achilles tendon bursitis occurs when the fluid-filled sac that cushions the area surrounding the tendon becomes inflamed. This condition can develop in bursa at the back of the heel or between the Achilles tendon and the heel bone. Common causes of Achilles tendon bursitis include wearing ill-fitting shoes, repetitive pressure on the back of the heel, or conditions like arthritis. Symptoms include swelling, redness, pain, and difficulty walking. Managing Achilles tendon bursitis involves addressing the inflammation and relieving pressure on the heel. A chiropodist can help by recommending appropriate footwear, orthotic devices, and specific exercises to alleviate strain on the Achilles tendon. Regular visits to a chiropodist can aid in monitoring and treating Achilles tendon bursitis effectively. If you are experiencing heel pain that may be related to bursitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.
Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include:
-
Repetitive stress or overuse
-
Sudden increase in activity levels
-
High impact injury
-
Calf muscle tightness or weakness
-
Altered foot biomechanics
-
Heel bone spurs
-
Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon
Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include:
-
Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise
-
Chronic heel and calf pain
-
Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf
-
A popping or snapping sensation
-
Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon
-
Ankle and calf stiffness
-
Decreased range of motion in the affected foot
-
Swelling
-
Difficulty walking
Treatment
-
Resting the affected leg
-
Applying ice
-
Compressing the foot and ankle
-
Elevating the injured leg
-
Wearing orthotics
-
Low impact exercises
-
Stretches
-
Strengthening exercises
-
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
-
Cortisone injections
-
Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured
Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Achilles Tendon Injuries
The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the lower leg, is a strong band of fibrous tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. There are several different types of Achilles tendon injuries. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendonitis and Achilles tendon ruptures.
When the tendon is injured due to repetitive strain and overuse, it can result in a condition called Achilles tendonitis. This injury is characterized by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, heel and calf pain, thickening of the tendon, ankle and calf stiffness, and a decreased range of motion. In the initial stages of Achilles tendonitis, pain primarily occurs following physical activity, but it can become constant and chronic if the injury is left untreated.
When the Achilles tendon fully tears, it is known as an Achilles tendon rupture. This usually occurs following a sudden, high-impact injury. Symptoms include a sudden, stabbing pain in the back of the affected leg, a popping or snapping sensation, swelling, and difficulty walking and raising the foot. This condition requires prompt treatment to prevent further damage to the tendon.
There are a variety of treatments available for Achilles tendon injuries. Achilles tendonitis can often be treated through conservative methods, such as resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and doing gentle stretches. Achilles tendon ruptures may require surgical treatment to avoid reinjury. For more information about Achilles tendon injuries, please consult with a chiropodist.
All About Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow channel located on the inside of the ankle. This compression often results in pain, tingling, or burning sensations along the inner ankle, sometimes extending to the toes. Symptoms can worsen with prolonged standing or walking, and may be experienced even at rest. Factors that can contribute to tarsal tunnel syndrome include abnormal foot mechanics, inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, or the presence of cysts. A chiropodist can recommend orthotics to stabilize the foot and reduce pressure on the affected nerve. They may also suggest footwear modifications and provide supportive taping techniques to alleviate nerve tension. In more persistent cases, advanced imaging may be needed. If you are experiencing pain on the inner side of your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause pain and progress over time. If you are experiencing any symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the posterior tibial nerve, which is located within a structure called the tarsal tunnel on the inside of the ankle, is squeezed. Compression of the posterior tibial nerve can be caused by injuries, such as ankle sprains, systemic diseases like diabetes or arthritis, strain on the tarsal tunnel due to flat feet, or an enlarged structure like a cyst squeezing the nerve.
Symptoms
Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear suddenly and are generally worsened by physical activity.
Common symptoms include:
-
Tingling, burning, or electrical shock sensation on the inside of the ankle or bottom of the foot
-
Numbness
-
Shooting pain
Diagnosis
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed through physical examination. If initial treatment is ineffective, imaging or nerve studies may also be necessary.
Treatment
Nonsurgical treatments for tarsal tunnel syndrome include resting and icing the foot, bracing or immobilizing the foot, wearing an orthotic device, modifying your footwear, and taking medications to relieve pain. Surgery may be needed if nonsurgical treatments are ineffective.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space on the inside of the ankle, located next to the ankle bones. Within the tarsal tunnel are a variety of tendons, arteries, veins, and nerves, including the posterior tibial nerve. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is squeezed or compressed. This can happen due to injuries that produce inflammation or swelling near the nerve, systemic diseases like arthritis, an abnormal structure such as a cyst putting pressure on the nerve, or flat feet straining the nerve as you walk.
Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome include tingling, burning, or electrical shock sensations in the inside of the ankle or bottom of the foot, as well as numbness and shooting pains. In some cases, the symptoms are isolated to one small area, like the inner ankle. In other cases, the symptoms may affect the entire foot and ankle. Symptoms typically occur during or are aggravated by physical activities like walking, running, jumping, or prolonged standing.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be diagnosed by a chiropodist through physical examination of the affected foot and ankle. Imaging studies may be used if the chiropodist suspects that the underlying cause may be a structural abnormality, like a cyst. Treatment options for this condition include resting and icing the affected area, taking oral medications to reduce pain, immobilizing or bracing the affected foot, wearing supportive shoes or orthotic inserts, and physical therapy. Left untreated, tarsal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, please consult with a chiropodist.
See Your Foot Specialist Regularly If You Work On Your Feet
Do you work on your feet all day and find your feet in pain? Don't go to work in pain each day. Your foot pain can be treated, and we can help.
Plantar Warts and Your Child
Plantar warts are a common issue in children, appearing as small, rough growths on the bottom of their foot. These warts are caused by exposure to the human papillomavirus, or HPV. Plantar warts can make walking uncomfortable, often having a feeling that they are stepping on a small pebble. Unlike other types of warts, plantar warts tend to grow inward because of pressure from standing and walking. While warts can sometimes go away on their own, they may persist and cause discomfort that requires treatment. A chiropodist can evaluate the severity of plantar warts and offer professional treatment, including cryotherapy, to remove them safely. The goal is to prevent the warts from spreading to other parts of your child’s body or to other children. If your child has a plantar wart, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance.
Plantar warts can be uncomfortable or even painful. If you’re suffering from warts on your feet, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
What Does a Plantar Wart Look Like?
Plantar warts are fleshy growths that generally have a rough, grainy texture. They may look and feel like a callus and are usually small and can grow individually or in clusters. Plantar warts may have small, black dots at their center that are actually tiny blood vessels. Warts interrupt the natural lines of your skin.
Treatment Options
-
Salicylic acid - A chemical solution applied directly to the wart
-
Cryotherapy - Freezing the wart off with liquid nitrogen
-
Minor surgery - Removing the wart through excision
-
Laser treatment - A concentrated beam of light is used to remove the wart
-
Wearing comfortable shoes and socks to avoid irritating the wart
-
Over-the-counter medications for pain relief
-
Patches to keep pressure off the warts
Plantar warts can go away on their own, but this may take several months to years. If your plantar warts are bothering you, seeking medical treatment is suggested. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are fleshy growths on the sole of the foot that are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). When this virus enters the feet through a small crack in the skin, it forms foot warts. These warts may occur individually or in clusters. They’re usually small, rough, grainy patches of skin that disrupt the skin’s natural lines. Unlike calluses, plantar warts have a blood supply, which is visible as tiny, black dots in the center of the wart.
Plantar warts are typically asymptomatic and can go away on their own within a period of several months to several years. However, sometimes warts grow in areas that bear weight. The pressure of standing and walking causes the wart to grow inwards, potentially leading to discomfort or pain. There are various treatment options available. If opting for medical treatment, warts can be removed with chemicals, cryotherapy, laser therapy, or minor surgery. Each type of treatment has its own benefits and drawbacks, which should be discussed with your chiropodist. Wearing comfortable shoes and socks, taking over-the-counter pain medications, and wearing patches to take pressure off of the warts can help if you choose to wait for them to go away on their own.
Plantar warts are highly contagious and can spread from person to person through direct contact or through contact with an infected surface, but they can often be prevented with good foot hygiene practices. The virus that causes plantar warts can be contracted from walking barefoot in public areas, like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Wear flip-flops or shoes to protect your feet when frequenting these areas. Avoid sharing personal items, like towels, shoes, and socks, with others. For more information about prevention and treatment, please consult with a chiropodist.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, typically causing pain, redness, and swelling. They are most commonly found on the big toe, but any toenail can be affected. One of the primary causes of an ingrown toenail is wearing shoes that are too tight or ill-fitting, which can increase pressure on the toes. Engaging in activities like walking or sports in such footwear can make this issue worse. Additionally, improper toenail trimming, such as cutting the nails too short or rounding the edges, can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. People with naturally curved or thickened nails may be more prone to this condition. A chiropodist can help by carefully trimming the affected nail, reducing discomfort, and providing guidance on proper nail care to prevent recurrence. If you have a painful ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.
Ingrown toenails may require medical attention. If you have significant pain or notice signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The toenails of the big toe are usually affected, however, an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe. Sometimes, the area can become infected leading to potentially serious complications. The ingrown toenail may be caused by improper trimming of the toenail, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or injury to the nail.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:
-
Pain
-
Swelling
-
Redness
-
Warmth
-
Pus or drainage from the affected nail or a fever may indicate an infection of the area.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail. In less severe cases, home treatment may be adequate. Soaking the affected foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin with a piece of clean cotton can help. In more severe cases, you may need to use topical or oral antibiotics to treat an infection. Surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be required if more conservative treatments fail.
Ingrown toenails may be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and properly trimming the toenails. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short when using nail clippers.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows into the surrounding skin rather than over it. This can affect any toe, but most often happens on the big toe. Signs of an ingrown toenail include the surrounding skin becoming tender, painful, swollen, red, and warm. In some cases, the area can become infected, and white or yellow pus may drain from the area. If an ingrown toenail is showing signs of infection, it is recommended that you seek medical treatment.
Ingrown toenails are usually caused by wearing poorly fitting shoes or trimming the toenails improperly. Shoes that are too tight and have narrow, pointed toes or high heels can compress the toes and cause the toenails to curl and grow into the skin. Trimming your nails into a rounded shape or cutting them too short can cause the edges of the nail to grow into the skin. Other potential causes for ingrown toenails include sustaining an injury near the toenail, having a fungal nail infection, using certain prescription medications, and having an abnormal nail shape. Some people also have a genetic predisposition to developing ingrown toenails.
Preventing ingrown toenails begins with proper trimming. Trim your nails regularly using nail clippers rather than nail scissors. Nail clippers cut the nail straight across, avoiding the rounded edges that can make ingrown toenails likely to develop. Make sure that while trimming the nails that you do not cut them too short. Wear comfortable shoes with low heels and a wide toe area to keep your toes from squishing together.
For more information about ingrown toenails, please consult with a chiropodist.
Finding Shoes for Bunion Relief
Choosing the right footwear is an important way to manage bunion pain and helps to prevent further complications. Bunions develop when the big toe shifts out of alignment, often made worse by wearing narrow or pointed shoes. This causes a bony bump that can make walking painful, especially if the shoe lacks space around the toe area. When selecting shoes for bunion relief, opt for styles with a wide toe box, lower heels, and soft, flexible materials that minimize pressure. Deep-toed shoes can provide additional space for orthotics or custom inserts, which help support the foot. A chiropodist can assess the severity of the bunion and recommend shoe modifications, such as adding orthotic devices or using shoe stretchers to widen the toe area. Properly fitting shoes reduce discomfort and allow room for any foot changes caused by the bunion. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.
Bunions progressively worsen over time and may cause walking in your shoes to become difficult. To learn more about bunions, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Are Bunions?
A bunion is a bony bump that protrudes from the base of the big toe. Bunions are caused due to a misalignment of the first metatarsal. The characteristic bump of a bunion forms when the metatarsal shifts outwards from its proper position. Bunions develop slowly over time and progressively worsen without treatment. The skin over the bunion may develop calluses due to the friction from shoes. Eventually, a bunion can make walking uncomfortable or even painful. Bunions are one of the most common foot deformities and are especially common in women and older adults.
Symptoms
A bunion appears as a bulging bump on the outside of the base of the big toe.
The bunion may also:
-
Be swollen, red, or sore
-
Develop corns or calluses over it
-
Cause pain
-
Limit the big toe’s range of motion
Treatment
There are several different treatments available for bunions. Conservative treatment options include wearing shoes with a wider toe box, cushioning the bunion with a specialized pad, wearing shoe inserts, icing the bunion if it becomes inflamed, and taking medications to relieve pain. In more severe cases, more invasive procedures may be done. This may involve removing the swollen tissue around the bunion, straightening the big toe, realigning the bones at the front of the foot, or a combination of these procedures.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs