The long band of tissue at the back of the ankle, known as the Achilles tendon, allows the heel to lift when walking, running, or climbing stairs. When this tendon becomes irritated from overuse, Achilles tendinitis can develop, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling near the heel. If the tendon is repeatedly strained, the fibers can weaken, leading to degeneration called Achilles tendinosis. A sudden force to the foot or landing awkwardly from a jump can cause a tear, or rupture, which often produces sharp pain and makes it difficult to walk normally or stand on tiptoe. Risk of an Achilles tendon injury increases with running uphill, quick changes in direction, tight calf muscles, or wearing flip-flops or worn out shoes. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury, recommend supportive footwear, prescribe orthotics, or advise if surgery is necessary. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Manisha Mehta, DPM of Detroit, MI. 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 Detroit, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the bottom of the foot can come from several conditions that affect comfort and movement. A sprain may cause swelling and tenderness after sudden twisting. Morton's neuroma creates burning or tingling near the toes due to nerve irritation. Plantar fasciitis leads to sharp heel pain that is worse in the morning. Flat feet can cause aching along the arch from poor support. Each condition has unique symptoms, but all can limit daily activities. A podiatrist can perform a thorough evaluation, provide custom treatment, and recommend supportive footwear or orthotics to reduce strain and improve function. If you have ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective treatment solutions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Manisha Mehta, DPM from Detroit, MI. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Heel pain is a common concern that can interrupt daily movement and make each step feel heavier than the last. One frequent cause is plantar fasciitis, which develops when the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. Other sources include Achilles tendon strain, inflammation in the heel pad, nerve irritation, or bursitis that forms from repeated pressure. Some individuals notice discomfort after long hours on hard surfaces, while others develop pain from sudden increases in activity or shoes that lack support. Early attention helps prevent the condition from becoming chronic. Resting the foot, improving footwear, gentle stretching, and targeted care can ease symptoms and encourage healing. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Manisha Mehta, DPM of Detroit, MI. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Peripheral artery disorders occur when circulation to the legs and feet becomes restricted because the arteries have narrowed or hardened. As blood flow decreases, the muscles and skin do not receive enough oxygen, leading to cramping during activity, fatigue in the calves, or a heavy feeling that improves with rest. Some people notice their feet feel cooler than usual or see wounds taking much longer to heal. These circulation problems often develop gradually and are influenced by aging, smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Recognizing the early signs matters because untreated poor circulation can lead to infections or chronic ulcers. With proper diagnosis, treatment options can improve comfort and help protect long-term mobility. If you notice persistent foot discomfort, numbness, or slow-healing sores, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with Manisha Mehta, DPM from Detroit, MI. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

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