Items filtered by date: May 2024

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This tendon is susceptible to different kinds of injuries that can affect mobility and cause pain. Common injuries include Achilles tendonitis, Achilles bursitis, and Achilles tendon rupture. Achilles tendonitis is where repetitive stress and overuse lead to inflammation of the tendon, which causes pain and swelling near the heel. Achilles bursitis involves inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac located near the heel bone. This condition causes similar symptoms to tendonitis but occurs at the back of the heel. An Achilles tendon rupture is more severe and involves a partial or complete tear of the tendon, often accompanied by sudden, sharp pain and an inability to walk properly. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the injury but may include rest, targeted stretching exercises, and in severe cases of rupture, surgical intervention. Regular visits to a podiatrist are important for proper diagnosis, management of symptoms, and guidance on rehabilitation to ensure effective recovery. If you have an injured Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist today. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. 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 Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Swollen feet, a common and often uncomfortable condition, can stem from various factors. One primary cause is fluid retention, which occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the tissues, leading to swelling and puffiness. This fluid buildup can result from prolonged standing or sitting, particularly in hot weather, as well as hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation. Additionally, certain medical conditions, such as heart failure, kidney disease, or liver problems, can impair the body's ability to regulate fluid levels and contribute to swelling in the feet and ankles. Injuries such as sprains or fractures may also lead to swelling as the body responds to tissue damage and inflammation. Furthermore, lifestyle factors like obesity or poor circulation can exacerbate swelling in the lower extremities. Identifying the underlying cause of swollen feet is essential for proper management and treatment, which may include lifestyle modifications, medication, or medical intervention to address the root issue and alleviate discomfort. A podiatrist can determine the cause of swollen feet. If you have this condition, it is suggested that you confer with this foot doctor who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Comprehensive Footcare Clinic - Hawaii. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Honolulu, HI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.