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Types and Risk Factors for Achilles Tendon Injuries

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 Dr. Kenneth Donovan of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. 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 one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Benefits of Stretching Toes and Feet

Many people do not realize how much flexibility in the toes influences balance, posture, and the way the feet move throughout the day. When the toes become stiff or the arch muscles are underused, walking and running can feel less stable and can even lead to discomfort in the feet, calves, and ankles. A helpful stretch involves using your hands to guide the toes into a gentle bending motion at the base joints, encouraging them to lengthen and lift in the correct places. Placing your fingers under the sole and your thumbs on top of the toes allows you to support the foot while easing the toes downward and away from the body. Holding the stretch for several deep breaths helps awaken the small muscles that support the arch and improves overall mobility. Practicing this regularly can promote stronger movement patterns and more comfortable steps. If you have foot or toe pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for treatment, which may include additional stretches.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

  • Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
  • Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
  • Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
  • Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Practical Foot Care Habits for Older Adults

As people age, their feet can become more vulnerable to dryness, pressure points, nail changes, and balance concerns, making steady care especially important. Washing and drying the feet thoroughly each day helps maintain skin health, while moisturizing can prevent cracking that may lead to discomfort. Trimming nails straight across reduces the chance of ingrown edges, and wearing supportive shoes with a stable base can improve confidence during walking. Many older adults also benefit from checking their feet regularly for redness, swelling, or small injuries that may not cause immediate pain. These simple habits support safer movement and help prevent issues from becoming more serious. If you notice persistent soreness, difficulty walking, or changes in skin or nails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation.

If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan of Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Running With a Broken Toe and What You Need to Know

Running with a broken toe is generally not recommended. Even a small fracture affects how your foot absorbs pressure, and the repeated impact from running can worsen the injury, delay healing, or cause the bone to shift out of place. Most people experience sharp pain, swelling, bruising, or difficulty pushing off the ground, all of which make running uncomfortable and risky. Continuing to run can also change your gait, which may lead to new problems in the foot, ankle, knee, or hip. A broken toe usually needs rest, protection, and sometimes immobilization to heal properly. For mild fractures, buddy taping and wearing a stiff-soled shoe may be enough. More complex injuries require medical guidance. Listening to your body and allowing time for recovery gives you the best chance to return to activity safely. If you suspect a toe fracture or the pain is not improving, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and proper care.

Broken toes may cause a lot of pain and should be treated as soon as possible. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Kenneth Donovan from Advanced Care Foot and Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is a Broken Toe?

A broken toe occurs when one or more of the toe bones of the foot are broken after an injury. Injuries such as stubbing your toe or dropping a heavy object on it may cause a toe fracture.

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

  • Swelling
  • Pain (with/without wearing shoes)
  • Stiffness
  • Nail Injury

Although the injured toe should be monitored daily, it is especially important to have a podiatrist look at your toe if you have severe symptoms. Some of these symptoms include worsening or new pain that is not relieved with medication, sores, redness, or open wounds near the toe.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Warren, Livingston, and Toms River, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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