The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel, can become irritated or damaged when it is placed under repeated stress. Many people notice a gradual ache above the heel that feels worse during activity and eases with rest. Others experience stiffness in the morning, swelling along the back of the ankle, or tenderness when pressing on the tendon. Sudden increases in exercise, tight calf muscles, wearing unsupportive footwear, or changes in walking surfaces can all contribute to strain. In more severe cases, sharp pain or difficulty pushing off the foot may indicate a partial tear. Early awareness helps prevent further injury and supports a smoother recovery through stretching, wearing proper footwear, and activity changes. If you continue to feel discomfort or notice swelling along the tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

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.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes the body to mistakenly attack its own joints, and the feet are often among the first areas affected. Inflammation can lead to swelling, stiffness, and a deep aching sensation, particularly in the toes and the ball of the foot. Over time, the joints may shift or lose stability, making walking uncomfortable and sometimes altering the shape of the foot. Many individuals also notice warmth, tenderness, or difficulty standing for long periods. Because these changes can progress gradually, early attention is important to protect mobility and reduce strain on surrounding joints. Supportive footwear, gentle exercises, and timely care all help manage symptoms more comfortably. If you have persistent swelling, stiffness, or joint pain in the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for further evaluation.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM of Florida. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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.

A podiatrist’s job focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions that affect the feet and ankles. Their work ranges from caring for simple concerns like nail problems, calluses, or heel pain, to managing more complex issues such as fractures, tendon injuries, and chronic conditions that affect mobility. They examine how your feet function, evaluate symptoms, and use diagnostic tools like X-rays or ultrasounds to understand the source of discomfort. Podiatrists also play an important role in long-term health. They provide custom orthotics for support, monitor diabetic foot concerns, treat wounds, and guide patients through recovery after surgery or injury. Education is a major part of their work, helping people make better choices about footwear, activity levels, and overall foot health. When foot or ankle pain interferes with daily life or keeps returning, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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.

Plantar warts often start as small, unnoticed growths on the bottom of the foot, but pressure from walking can push them inward and make them increasingly painful. These growths come from a common virus that enters through tiny breaks in the skin, leading to areas that may feel firm, tender, or appear to have dark pinpoint dots. Some form individually, while others spread into clusters that create more discomfort with every step. Trying to treat a plantar wart at home can cause irritation if the wart is deeper than expected. When pain increases, the spot grows, or multiple warts begin to form, it becomes important to get a professional opinion. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, offer safe treatment options, and help prevent recurrence. If you have a persistent or painful spot on the bottom of your foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper care.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Melissa C. Verde, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate 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.