Achilles tendinopathy develops when the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, becomes irritated from repeated stress or changes in activity. This tendon plays an important role in walking, running, and pushing off the ground. Although it is the strongest tendon in the body, excessive strain may affect its ability to recover properly. Achilles tendinopathy often develops after increased physical activity, especially activities involving repetitive movements. Tight calf muscles and improper footwear may also place additional pressure on the tendon. Over time, this may lead to persistent heel pain and difficulty moving comfortably.

Symptoms of Achilles tendinopathy often include pain, stiffness, and tenderness along the back of the heel or lower leg. Some individuals may also notice thickening around the affected tendon. Discomfort may be more noticeable in the morning or after extended periods of activity. As the problem progresses, pain may develop during walking or running, particularly on hills or uneven surfaces. Ankle stiffness and muscle weakness may also contribute to ongoing discomfort. In more severe cases, the pain may interfere with normal movement or cause a noticeable limp. Recognizing these symptoms early supports timely treatment and helps reduce the risk of continued tendon irritation.

A podiatrist evaluates Achilles tendon pain and identifies factors contributing to the discomfort. During an examination, the podiatrist assesses ankle movement, calf muscle tightness, and foot positioning to better understand the source of the problem. Treatment may involve professionally guided strengthening exercises, adjustments to physical activity, and recommendations for supportive footwear. These approaches focus on reducing excessive strain while gradually improving the tendon's ability to handle movement. Recovery may take several months, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the individual's response to treatment. If you are experiencing persistent Achilles tendon pain or stiffness, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of South Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute. Our doctors 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 Mullica Hill, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery uses small incisions and instruments to treat certain conditions while limiting disruption to nearby tissues. Depending on the procedure, this type of surgery may be considered for bunions, hammertoes, and other problems that do not improve with conservative care. Symptoms leading to surgery can include pain, swelling, or difficulty walking. The goal is to correct the problem while helping the foot or ankle heal.

There are several potential benefits to minimally invasive surgery. Smaller incisions may create smaller, more pleasing scars than traditional surgical approaches. Less disruption to surrounding tissue may support a faster recovery for some patients. Patients may also experience reduced post-operative pain and decreased post-operative joint stiffness. However, results vary based on the condition, procedure, and individual health. Not every foot or ankle problem can be treated with a minimally invasive approach.

Risk factors for complications include diabetes, smoking, and medical conditions that affect healing. A podiatrist will review your health history and examine the affected area before recommending surgery. Imaging tests may be used to understand bone alignment or joint changes. If surgery is appropriate, the podiatrist explains the procedure, expected recovery, and aftercare. Treatment may also include protective footwear, wound care, and follow-up visits.

After surgery, following your podiatrist's instructions is an important part of recovery. The foot may need protection while tissues heal, and activity may need to increase gradually. Follow-up appointments allow the podiatrist to check the incision, swelling, and progress. Keeping the surgical area clean and reporting unusual drainage, increasing redness, or worsening pain can help address concerns. If you have a foot or ankle condition that could benefit from minimally invasive surgery, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of South Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Plantar fasciitis is a cause of heel and foot pain that develops when the plantar fascia becomes irritated. This band of tissue runs along the bottom of the foot and helps support the arch while walking. Pain develops near the heel and may feel sharp after getting out of bed. Some people notice discomfort after sitting or long periods of standing. Although plantar fasciitis can improve with care, symptoms should not be ignored because they can affect movement.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Increased activity, standing for a long time, and unsupportive footwear may place strain on the plantar fascia. People with flat feet or high arches may experience added stress. Weight gain can increase pressure while walking, while tight calf muscles may affect normal foot mechanics. Plantar fasciitis can develop after a sudden change in exercise, such as increasing walking or running too quickly. These stresses can create irritation that leads to significant foot pain.

A podiatrist begins by reviewing your symptoms, activities, footwear, and medical history. A foot examination can identify tenderness and evaluate your walking pattern. Imaging may be recommended when another condition needs evaluation. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of your symptoms. A podiatrist may recommend supportive shoes, custom orthotics, or stretching for the calf and plantar fascia. Other options may include night splints, targeted injections, or advanced treatments, if needed. The goal is to reduce irritation and restore foot function.

Understanding why plantar fasciitis develops can make it easier to recognize symptoms and seek help before pain becomes persistent. Support and a guided approach to activity can help protect the plantar fascia. If heel pain is causing difficulty in completing daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of South Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute. Our doctors 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 Mullica Hill, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that begins between the toes. The fungus grows in warm, damp places and can spread through contact with contaminated surfaces. Locker-room floors, showers, and pool areas are sources of exposure. Shoes that trap heat and moisture can create conditions that allow fungus to grow. Symptoms include itching, burning, and peeling skin. The affected area may also become red, cracked, or sore. Some infections spread across the sole or along the sides of the foot. Small, fluid-filled blisters can appear in certain cases.

Although an athlete’s foot infection can seem minor, it should not be ignored. Cracks in the skin can allow bacteria to enter and cause a serious infection. This risk is greater for patients with diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system. Athlete’s foot can also spread to the toenails, hands, or other areas of the body. Because eczema and other skin problems can cause similar symptoms, an accurate diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can examine the skin and determine whether a fungal infection is present. In some cases, a small skin sample is tested to confirm the cause.

A podiatrist can recommend treatment based on the location and severity of the infection. The podiatrist can also check for nail involvement, bacterial infection, or skin damage that requires closer attention. Guidance can be provided on keeping the feet dry and reducing the chance of another infection. This includes choosing breathable shoes, changing damp socks, and protecting the feet in shared bathing areas. Shoes should fit properly and allow enough room around the toes. Patients should seek prompt care when symptoms keep returning or begin to spread. Swelling, drainage, or increasing pain also requires professional evaluation. Early diagnosis can shorten the infection and help protect the surrounding skin and nails. If you have symptoms of an athlete’s foot infection, it is important that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist effective relief and treatment solutions.

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 one of our podiatrists from South Jersey Foot & Ankle Institute. Our doctors 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 Mullica Hill, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.