Achilles tendon injuries are common among athletes, particularly those who engage in sports that involve running, jumping, or sudden direction changes. Recovery from such an injury typically begins with rest and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. Stretching and strengthening exercises are designed to gradually restore mobility and prevent further strain. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the tendon. Preventing Achilles tendon injuries involves proper warm-up routines, including stretching and strengthening exercises for the calves and ankles. Wearing appropriate footwear that provides adequate support is also essential. Athletes should gradually increase the intensity of their training to avoid overloading the tendon. If you suspect an Achilles tendon injury for any reason, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer you the correct treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Amir Shalev, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Children involved in running activities are at risk for various foot and ankle injuries, often linked to overuse or biomechanical issues. Common foot conditions include Sever’s disease, which causes heel pain due to stress on the growth plates, and Iselin’s disease, which leads to pain on the outer edge of the foot from repetitive stress. Overtraining, sudden increases in activity, and wearing improper footwear can contribute to stress fractures in foot bones, which are often identified through localized pain that worsens with movement. Additionally, children undergoing growth spurts may experience increased muscle tightness and decreased flexibility, which heighten the risk of running injuries. A podiatrist can evaluate your child’s foot structure, recommend orthotics for support, and address any biomechanical concerns to help alleviate symptoms and prevent further issues. If your child has foot pain after physical activity, especially running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Amir Shalev, DPM of Complete Foot & Ankle Care. 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden, intense pain, redness, and swelling, often in the big toe. The primary cause of gout is high levels of uric acid in the blood, which can result from certain foods, alcohol, or dehydration. To avoid flare-ups, it is important to limit foods that increase uric acid levels, such as red meat, shellfish, organ meats, sugary drinks, and alcohol, especially beer. Instead, focus on eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and drink plenty of water to help flush uric acid from the body.  A podiatrist can help manage gout by diagnosing flare-ups, providing anti-inflammatory treatments, and recommending lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments. In some cases, this type of doctor may prescribe medications to lower uric acid levels or prevent future attacks. If you have gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this painful condition.
 

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Amir Shalev, DPM from Complete Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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