October 2024

Achilles tendinopathy is a an injury that affects the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This ailment typically arises from overuse or repetitive stress on the tendon, often seen in athletes who engage in activities like running or jumping. It can also develop from sudden increases in physical activity or improper footwear. Symptoms usually include pain and stiffness along the back of the heel, which may worsen with activity and improve with rest. The pain is often felt in the lower part of the calf or directly above the heel. Swelling and tenderness in the affected area are also common. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis to determine the type of injury and offer appropriate treatment solutions. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. 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 Chelan, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The foot and ankle consist of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments, forming a complex structure that provides support, balance, and mobility. Key joints include the ankle joint where the tibia, fibula, and talus meet, the subtalar joint allowing side-to-side motion, and the midfoot joints, which contribute to arch flexibility. Biomechanics of the foot and ankle are critical, as they impact walking, running, and overall posture. Improper alignment or function in these joints can lead to issues like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or osteoarthritis, affecting movement and increasing stress on the knees, hips, and lower back. Proper foot care, wearing supportive footwear, and orthotics can help maintain good biomechanics, reduce pain, and prevent injuries. It is suggested that you include regular check-ups with a podiatrist in your health care routine to catch potential problems early, ensuring long-term foot health.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact John Horlebein, DPM from Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

A black toenail can be alarming, often caused by several underlying issues. Trauma is a common cause, typically from stubbing your toe or repeated pressure, such as from wearing ill-fitting shoes. This blunt force can cause blood to pool beneath the nail, creating a dark discoloration. Fungal or bacterial infections may also result in a blackened nail if they affect the nail bed. More seriously, melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can present as a dark streak or discoloration under the nail. It is important to monitor any changes in your toenail’s color or texture and seek medical advice if the condition persists or worsens. A podiatrist can help diagnose the cause accurately and provide appropriate treatment, ensuring that any serious issues are addressed promptly. If you have a black toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact John Horlebein, DPM of Northern Cascades Foot & Ankle, LLC. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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