Achilles tendinopathy is a condition involving irritation and breakdown of the Achilles tendon, the thick band that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Diagnosis begins with a careful exam, where a podiatrist checks for pain, swelling, and stiffness along the back of the heel, especially with movement or pressure. Imaging such as an ultrasound or MRI scans may be used to confirm changes in the tendon structure. Treatment focuses on reducing strain and supporting healing. This may include activity changes, wearing supportive shoes, heel lifts, and guided stretching and strengthening exercises. Targeted exercises can help improve tendon function, over time. In some cases, advanced options may be considered. Ignoring symptoms can lead to worsening damage. If heel pain is ongoing or limiting activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate care.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. 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 Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that often appears without warning, frequently affecting the big toe. The joint may become intensely painful, red, warm, and swollen, sometimes overnight. The skin can look tight or shiny, and even light pressure from a sheet may feel uncomfortable. This condition develops when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream and forms sharp crystals within the joint. Triggers may include certain foods, dehydration, alcohol use, or underlying medical conditions that affect how the body processes uric acid. A podiatrist can identify gout through a physical exam, medical history, and diagnostic testing. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing future attacks through medication, lifestyle adjustments, and supportive care. Addressing symptoms early can help protect the joint from long-term damage. If you suspect you have gout, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Arthritis in the ankle is not as common as in other joints, so it often deserves a closer look. When there is no past injury to explain the damage, it may signal an underlying condition rather than simple wear and tear. One example is haemochromatosis, a condition where the body stores too much iron, which can build up and affect joint health, over time. When only one ankle joint is involved, gout, a painful arthritis caused by uric acid crystals, is often a more likely cause than other crystal-related conditions. If infection is present, bacteria are usually responsible, including certain sexually transmitted strains. Tuberculosis is less likely in this joint. When several joints become inflamed, ankle involvement may point toward specific inflammatory conditions rather than classic rheumatoid arthritis. These patterns help guide diagnosis and care. If you are experiencing ankle pain, swelling, or stiffness without a clear reason, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

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

Tinea pedis is the medical term for athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. The condition develops when fungi grow in warm, damp places such as sweaty shoes or locker rooms. It often begins between the toes, but can spread to the soles and sides of the feet. People may notice itching, burning, peeling skin, redness, or small cracks that sting while walking. The infection spreads easily through shared floors, towels, and footwear. Keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks daily, and wearing breathable shoes can help lower the risk. Some mild cases improve with antifungal creams, but the infection can return if it is not fully treated. A podiatrist can confirm the condition and recommend stronger treatment, when needed. If athlete’s foot symptoms do not improve or continue to spread, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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