An Achilles tendon injury occurs when the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel becomes strained, inflamed, or torn. This tendon plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping. Injuries may develop gradually due to repetitive stress or suddenly from excessive force. Common causes include overuse, wearing improper footwear, sudden increases in physical activity, and inadequate warm-ups before exercise. Engaging in high-impact activities, such as basketball or running, can place significant strain on the tendon. Having tight calf muscles or structural foot imbalances may also contribute to added stress on the tendon. If you experience pain in the lower part of your calf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and provide appropriate treatment for Achilles tendon injuries.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM of Florida. 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 Longwood, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Morton's toe is a foot condition where the second toe is longer than the big toe due to a shorter first metatarsal bone. This structural difference can alter weight distribution, placing extra pressure on the ball of the foot. Causes of Morton's toe are primarily genetic, as the condition is inherited. This imbalance can lead to foot problems like calluses, metatarsalgia, and improper arch support. It may also contribute to pain in the ankles, knees, and lower back due to changes in walking mechanics. Relief options include wearing shoes with proper arch support, using orthotic inserts, and choosing footwear with a roomy toe box. If this condition is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can guide you on relief options, including stretching and strengthening exercises that can help improve foot stability. 

Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM of Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.

What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?

A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.

What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?

Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:

• Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
• Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
• Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
• Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
• Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
• Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Treatment and Prevention

While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.

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

Morton's neuroma develops when tissue thickens around a nerve in the forefoot, commonly between the third and fourth toes. This condition often causes a burning sensation, tingling, or the feeling of stepping on a small object. Wearing tight shoes and high heels can increase pressure on the nerve and worsen the pain.  A podiatrist can diagnose Morton’s neuroma by assessing symptoms and using digital imaging as needed. Treatment may involve changing footwear, using orthotics to relieve pressure, or receiving injections to reduce inflammation. If non-surgical methods do not provide relief, surgery may be considered to either remove the affected nerve or release surrounding tissue to reduce compression. Surgical recovery typically allows walking in a protective shoe soon after the procedure, with most people returning to regular footwear within a few weeks. If you are experiencing symptoms of Morton's neuroma, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options, which may include surgery.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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