Blog

The Achilles tendon is the band of tissues that connects the back of the calf muscles to the heel bone. Common causes of pain primarily consist of ruptures and tendonitis. During a tear or rupture of the Achilles tendon, some of the fibers may remain connected (partial tear) or tear completely. Ruptures are likely to occur when there is a sudden increase in exercise and may be signaled by a popping or snapping sound, pain in the back of the legs, or swelling around the heel. Achilles tendonitis occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed, resulting in pain, stiffness, or swelling. Achilles tendonitis can occur from excessive strain, tight calf muscles, or not warming up before exercising. If you are experiencing pain in your Achilles tendon it is recommended to have it checked by a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Frank Stoddard, DPM of Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sesamoiditis is a common condition among athletes, specifically runners. This condition can occur when there is inflammation present in the tendons of the foot. When sesamoiditis has developed, runners may experience pain in the balls of their feet. Some have described the condition as feeling like they have a rock stuck in their shoe. A sharp or burning sensation in the toe area can also be indicative of sesamoiditis. For a proper diagnosis, and advice on running techniques to prevent his condition, please speak with a podiatrist.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact Frank Stoddard, DPM of Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

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

Ankle sprains are injuries to the ligaments that support the ankle, and are quite common among athletes. When you sprain your ankle, it is generally recommended that you avoid sports and other strenuous activities that put pressure on the affected ankle. Prior to returning to your typical activities, you will want your ankle sprain to be fully healed. Generally, this means that any swelling has gone down, you can bear weight on the affected ankle without limping, you have a full range of motion, your strength returns to normal, and your ankle is no longer causing you pain. You will also, of course, want to get permission from your doctor to return to your usual activities. For more information about ankle sprains and when to return to your normal routines, consult with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 Massillon, OH. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

The medical condition that is known as gout can cause severe pain and difficulty walking. It generally affects the joints in the big toe, and may cause swelling and redness. It can develop as a result of excess uric acid in the bloodstream, which can occur for various reasons. These can include genetic factors, or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. Elevated levels of purines can be found in specific foods such as red meat, shellfish, and drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. To determine the severity of gout, fluid is removed from the affected joints and observed for uric acid crystals. It is strongly recommended that a podiatrist be consulted if you are afflicted with gout.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Frank Stoddard, DPM from Massillon Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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