Achilles tendonitis causes pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, where the Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the bone. This tendon can be affected in two main ways. Insertional Achilles tendonitis occurs where the tendon attaches directly to the heel bone, sometimes involving bone spurs that rub against the tendon. Non-insertional Achilles tendonitis develops slightly higher up in the middle portion of the tendon, an area that has a limited blood supply, and often affects active people. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include aching or sharp pain at the back of the heel, tenderness when pressing the tendon, swelling, and visible thickening of the tendon. A podiatrist can evaluate the symptoms, provide imaging if needed, and discuss treatment options, including pain medication, exercises, or surgery, if required. If you are experiencing pain in the back of your heel, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. 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 Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

An ankle fracture occurs when one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint are broken, and the severity can vary from a minor crack to multiple complex breaks. Common types of ankle fractures are lateral malleolus fractures, which affect the outer ankle bone, medial malleolus fractures, which involve the inner bone, and bimalleolar fractures, where both sides are broken. Symptoms include sudden pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, and in severe cases, a visibly deformed joint. A fracture can result from twisting an ankle during physical activity, tripping and falling on a ladder or stairs, or trauma from a car accident. A podiatrist can confirm the type of fracture with imaging and determine whether immobilization, realigning the bones, or surgery is required. In some cases, plates or screws may be needed to hold the bones in place during healing. Recovery can take a few months, and exercises may be advised to restore movement. If you believe you have a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Arthroscopic ankle surgery is a procedure that allows a podiatrist to see inside the ankle joint and address problems without making a large incision. Small cuts are created around the ankle so that a tiny camera and instruments can be inserted. This gives the podiatrist a clear view of the joint surfaces, cartilage, and ligaments. Arthroscopic ankle surgery can help identify and treat arthritis, torn ligaments, or bone spurs. Loose pieces of cartilage or bone that cause pain and stiffness can be removed, and inflamed tissue lining the joint can be treated to improve motion. The procedure generally lasts 30 to 45 minutes, and most patients return home the same day. Swelling and soreness are common for several weeks, and many people regain mobility with proper care. If you have an ankle injury that may require surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and available treatment options.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

As people age, the feet undergo natural changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues. Seniors often experience fat pad atrophy, which reduces cushioning in the heels and balls of the feet, leading to pain. Cracked heels can develop from dry skin, while bunions and ingrown toenails may cause swelling, redness, and difficulty walking. Morton's neuroma can create sharp pain or tingling between the toes. These conditions can impact daily activities and overall quality of life. A podiatrist can provide expert evaluation, offer treatments such as orthotics, padding, or corrective procedures, and recommend preventive care. If you or a loved one are experiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis, and offer effective treatment solutions.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Montgomery Foot Care Specialists. our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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