Items filtered by date: April 2020

Many people are unaware that the Achilles tendon is the strongest tendon in the body. It can become easily damaged among people who frequently participate in running and jumping activities. This tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel, and a sudden injury can cause severe pain and discomfort. Additionally, it may gradually endure wear and tear, and may become inflamed. If an injury is the cause of an Achilles tendon rupture, there may be a loud cracking sound that is heard at the time of the mishap. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which generally involves having an MRI or ultrasound taken, the correct treatment can begin. If you have an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist as quickly as possible who can help you with determining the best treatment techniques.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jim Maxka, DPM of South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. 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 Hanover, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The symptoms of poor circulation in the feet generally happen as a result of blood that is carried inefficiently through the body. Poor circulation can occur from blocked arteries, or possibly from unhealthy living habits. These can include minimal stretching and exercise, smoking, or it may happen from standing or sitting for the majority of the day. Common signs this may be impacting your feet can be tingling or numbing sensations. Additionally, patients may feel a burning pain, and it may become difficult to walk or to complete daily activities. In severe cases, the toes may appear discolored, and the feet may begin to swell. Mild relief may be felt when the feet are frequently elevated, and it may be beneficial to incorporate a gentle exercise program into your daily routine. If you are afflicted with poor circulation, please schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Jim Maxka, DPM of South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Research has indicated the chances may increase for children who are obese to have difficulty in walking. The feet may be affected by the additional weight, and this may cause the gait to change. Additionally, it may be more difficult for overweight children to balance, possibly as a result of weakened muscles in the feet. Flat feet is common among obese children. This may lead to general fatigue in the body, and it can become difficult to maintain activity levels. If you would like more information about how obesity can affect your children’s feet, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist.

Obesity has become very problematic at this point in time and can have extremely negative effects on the feet. If you’re an obese individual and are concerned about your feet, contact Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Obesity and Your Feet

Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.

Problems & Complications

Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.

Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.

Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot. 

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

There are known differences between walking and running shoes. The type of shoes that runners typically prefer consist of having additional flexibility, which is needed as a result of strong impact on the ground. People who enjoy walking may benefit from footwear with less padding in the heel and arch areas of the feet. Additionally, walking shoes can offer more support than running shoes. They have firmer soles which may help to make walking more comfortable. If you are interested in learning about additional details of the differences between walking and running shoes, please consult with a podiatrist.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Jim Maxka, DPM from South Penn Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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