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It's no surprise that our feet often hurt considering that an average day of walking exerts a force on the feet that's equal to several hundred tons. All that rushing around makes our feet more prone to injury than any other part of the body. Your feet mirror your general health. Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in the feet - so foot ailments can be your first sign of more serious medical problems.

Studies show that 3 out of 4 Americans experience serious foot problems in their lifetime. Despite the millions of aching feet out there, many of us don't seek the medical attention we need for relief. Foot pain is never normal, and you shouldn't be resigned to teetering around on sore feet.

The conditions listed below and to the left are some of the most common foot ailments. No matter what causes your feet to ache, we can help.

The "foot conditions" section of this Web site is maintained to provide general information about foot health. The materials, information, and answers provided by and through this Web site are not intended to replace or to be a substitute for medical advice provided by a qualified physician or other appropriate health care professional based on individual patient evaluation. You should consult with our practice or other appropriate health care professional on specific medical questions, including matters requiring diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical attention. click here for New Patient Form





Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles Tendonitis

Definition

Achilles Tendonitis causes inflammation and degeneration of the achilles tendon.  The achilles tendon is the large tendon located in the back of the leg that inserts into the heel.  The pain caused by achilles tendonitis can develop gradually without a history of trauma.  The pain can be a shooting pain, burning pain, or even an extremely piercing pain.  Achilles tendonitis should not be left untreated due to the danger that the tendon can become weak and ruptured.

Achilles Tendonitis is aggravated by activities that repeatedly stress the tendon, causing inflammation.  In some cases even prolonged periods of standing can cause symptoms.  It is a common problem often experienced by athletes, particularly distance runners.  Achilles Tendonitis is a difficult injury to treat in athletes due to their high level of activity and reluctance to stop or slow down their training.

Individuals who suffer from achilles tendonitis often complain that their first steps out of bed in the morning are extremely painful.  Another common complaint is pain after steps are taken after long periods of sitting.  This pain often lessens with activity.

Cause

There are several factors that can cause achilles tendonitis.  The most common cause is over-pronation.  Over-pronation occurs in the walking process, when the arch collapses upon weight bearing, adding stress on the achilles tendon.

Other factors that lead to achilles tendonitis are improper shoe selection, inadequate stretching prior to engaging in athletics, a short achilles tendon, direct trauma (injury) to the tendon, and heel bone deformity.

Treatment & Prevention

Athletes, particularly runners, should incorporate a thorough stretching program to properly warm-up the muscles.  They should decrease the distance of their walk or run, apply ice after the activity and avoid any up hill climbs.  Athletes should use an orthotic device, heel cup, or heel cradle for extra support.

A heel cup or heel cradle elevates the heel to reduce stress and pressure on the achilles tendon.  The device should be made with light-weight, shock absorbing materials.  An orthotic device can be used to control over-pronation, support the longitudinal arch, and reduce stress on the achilles tendon.

If the problem persists, please call us to schedule an appointment



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