The portion of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel is referred to as the Achilles tendon. This tendon makes it possible to walk, in addition to participating in running and jumping activities. If this should become inflamed as a result of an injury or damage that has happened gradually, it may develop into tendonitis. Symptoms of this condition can consist of pain and discomfort surrounding the heel. It can occur if the wrong shoes are worn during exercising, if a new sport is started, or if walking and running take place on an uneven surface. When this tendon is injured, it may be difficult to walk, and the pain may be intense upon arising in the morning. Relief may be found when the affected leg is elevated, and this may help to diminish a portion of the swelling. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you seek the advice of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. 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
Rupture Symptoms
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:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.
Wound care is generally a familiar concern for diabetic patients. When the insulin levels are elevated for an extended period of time, there may be a loss of feeling as a result of neuropathy. A small cut or scrape on the foot may have the potential of developing into a dangerous wound, and prompt treatment is necessary in possibly preventing a painful foot ulcer. Proper treatment may begin with cleaning the affected area thoroughly, followed by applying an antibiotic cream. It is important the wound is covered, and this may help to prevent bacteria from multiplying at the site of the foot ulcer. If you are affected by diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help this condition.
Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Wound Care?
Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.
What Is the Importance of Wound Care?
While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.
How to Care for Wounds
The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Many types of ankle pain can be caused by an injury, or from various medical conditions that can include arthritis. Research has indicated that ankle sprains are the most common causes of ankle pain. When your foot rolls to one side, the ligaments may become torn or stretched beyond their normal limits. This is known as a lateral sprain, and may take up to two weeks to properly heal. Patients have found that elevating the affected foot may reduce a portion of any existing swelling. Additionally, it is beneficial to wrap the ankle in an elastic bandage, which may provide the necessary support as the healing process takes place. After it is healed, practicing specific stretches can help to strengthen the overall foot. If you have ankle pain for any reason, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can properly diagnosis and treat this type of pain.
Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.
Causes
The most common causes of ankle pain include:
Symptoms
Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.
Diagnosis
Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.
Treatment
Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
It is helpful for children to learn the importance of taking care of their feet at an early age. This generally includes washing and drying the feet thoroughly, especially between the toes. This may help to prevent athlete’s foot from developing as the child ages. While indoors, it is beneficial to air the shoes and feet out by walking barefoot, which in turn, may also help to strengthen the toes. Toenails need to be trimmed frequently, and this is done properly by cutting the nail straight across the toe. It is helpful to wear shoes that fit correctly and have adequate room for the toes to move freely in. If you would like to learn more about how to take care of children’s feet, it is strongly advised that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist.
Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant of District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Keeping Children's Feet Healthy
Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...
Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.
Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.
Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.
As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’.
As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.
Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.
Be watchful for any pain or injury.
Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Common causes of a broken toe typically include a heavy object falling on one or more of your toes, or stubbing your toe against a piece of furniture. The affected toe may look swollen, bruised, and can be difficult to walk on. If the fracture is severe, the toe may look crooked and deformed, and this may cause severe pain and discomfort. Patients who have broken toes may choose to use buddy taping as a form of treatment. This method involves taping the broken toe to an adjacent toe, and can be effective in providing the stability that is necessary as the healing process occurs. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically involves having an X-ray taken, treatment can begin. If you have broken your toe, it is advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can help you to effectively manage this type of fracture.
A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Lubrina Bryant from District Podiatry, PLLC. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What to Know About a Broken Toe
Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).
Symptoms of a Broken Toe
Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.
Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Washington, D.C . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
