Achilles tendonitis is a common injury to the Achilles tendon which is a strong, fibrous band of tissue which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone at the back of the lower leg. There are two places along the Achilles tendon where someone might develop Achilles tendonitis. Insertional Achilles tendonitis occurs at the bottom of the heel, where the tendon attaches to the heel bone. This type of tendonitis can happen to both athletes and those who live a sedentary lifestyle. It is often accompanied by heel spurs, which can make the tendonitis worse. Non-insertional Achilles tendonitis occurs in the middle of the tendon, approximately 2-4 cm above the ankle. This type of tendonitis is more common in athletes and young people. If you are suffering from Achilles tendon pain or stiffness, please seek the care of a podiatrist. This professional can determine the type of Achilles tendonitis you have and find the right treatment for you. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. 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 Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Following an ankle sprain, doing gentle ankle exercises can be beneficial, although you should first get your doctor’s approval. Ankle exercises are great for ankle sprain recovery because they can improve your ankle’s range of motion, strength, stability, and flexibility, which can promote healing and help prevent future injuries. One simple exercise that you can do to improve your ankle’s range of motion is the “ankle alphabet.” Sit on a chair or couch with your leg extended out in front of you. Trace the letters of the alphabet, from A to Z, in the air using your big toe. Repeat this exercise two to three times. To learn more about the benefits of ankle exercises for ankle sprain recovery, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further injury.

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

The feet are often referred to as the foundation of the body. Unfortunately, they can undergo stress throughout the day from completing daily activities. Research has shown it can help to keep the feet limber when stretching techniques are frequently performed. Many stretches take a few minutes to complete, however the benefits are worth the wait. When the calves are stretched it often positively affects the heel and the bottom of the foot and their flexibility. This can be accomplished by sitting down with your feet stretched out before you, slightly grabbing the toes if you are able, all while keeping the toes in an upward position. then you can rest and repeat. Another great stretch is accomplished when a towel is placed around the feet, and you gently pull the feet toward you. Many patients enjoy the benefits of performing a foot roll. This is done by rolling the sole of the foot on a tennis or golf ball, and an effective stretch can be felt in the entire foot. There are numerous foot stretches that can be practiced daily, and it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist if you would like to learn more on how to implement new stretches into your daily routine.

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 one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 feel free to contact our office located in Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has indicated that the kitchen is one of the most common areas of the house to fall for many people who are age sixty-five or older. This can be a result of water that can spill on the floor and clutter that may gradually collect in corners of the kitchen. These types of falls may impact the feet and can cause difficulty in accomplishing daily activities. A common prevention method can include using a non-skid mat in front of the kitchen sink, as this may be helpful in preventing the area from getting slippery which can cause painful falls. Some patients find it beneficial to sit on a stool while washing the dishes, which can prove to be an effective assistive device. Strength in the body may increase when balancing and stability stretches are performed. If you would like more information about how preventive fall techniques can be used in the kitchen, as well as throughout your entire home, please consult with a podiatrist for professional advice.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

One common cause of heel pain is a foot condition known as plantar fasciitis. Research has indicated it comprises approximately eighty percent of all cases of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis can produce severe pain and discomfort, and can even cause difficulty in walking. This ailment may develop as a result of standing for extended periods of time during the day and from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. Additionally, it can be caused by a sudden injury or from an abnormal foot structure. The heel can be affected by an Achilles tendon injury, which can gradually occur due to overuse. This can affect the ability to point and flex the foot, and can make it difficult to complete daily activities. There are several causes of  heel pain and it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can effectively diagnose and treat any heel pain.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. 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 contact our office located in Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Shockwave therapy is a potential treatment option for various foot and ankle conditions, particularly chronic plantar fasciitis, which causes pain in the heel and arch. Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses pressurized air or electromagnetic pulses to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes in the affected area. There are two main types of shockwave treatments - low energy and high energy. Low energy shockwave treatments are typically painless or mildly painful. High energy shockwave treatments can be painful and sometimes require anesthesia. If you have chronic plantar fasciitis and conservative treatments have not helped, shockwave therapy may be another treatment option for you to consider. To learn more about this and other treatments for plantar fasciitis, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Shockwave therapy is a treatment commonly used to treat various injuries and conditions, particularly plantar fasciitis in the feet. To learn more, consult with one of our podiatrists from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Shockwave Therapy

Shockwave therapy is a new treatment option designed to treat bone conditions such as tennis elbow, shoulder pain, and others. Shockwave therapy uses high intensity sound waves that are directed to the affected tissues of the body with pinpoint accuracy. The effects are very beneficial, leading to a production of collagen fibers, eliminating inflammation.

Who Benefits from Shockwave?

Shockwave is recommended for patients suffering from heel pain and associated problems. Heel pain is a common condition which can be caused by obesity, overexertion, and spending a substantial amount of time on hard floors with your feet exposed and unsupported.

Fast and Easy

The therapy is actually a simple process that can leave patients feeling better the very next day. Shockwave therapy is not as dramatic as it sounds. It enables more blood flow to effected areas, addressing the source of the problem and allowing treatment to last for a long time.

Treatment & Recovery Time

Shockwave treatment will enable your feet to recover quickly. This is especially important since surgery is not required. It is cost effective and does not require the use of anesthesia. This treatment is a better option to surgery, since it is proven safe.

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

A change in the alignment of the bones in the foot may result in a bunion. Bunions appear as a bony protrusion that forms on the side of the big toe, and they can cause difficulty in walking. People who wear shoes that do not have adequate room for the toes to move freely in may see the beginning signs of a bunion developing. Additionally, bunions may happen from genetic reasons or from a foot abnormality at birth. The majority of bunions do not cause pain, despite the fact that they can gradually become larger. Research has indicated arthritis may cause the bunion and surrounding areas to become uncomfortable. Mild relief may be found when bunion pads are worn, and this can be effective if the bunion is small. Larger bunions may require surgery for permanent removal, and it is strongly suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine if this is right for you.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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

Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury that occurs when the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bones to the toes, becomes inflamed. The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain on the bottom and inside of the heel, although you may also experience swelling, tenderness, redness, and warmth, as well as arch pain. The symptoms are usually at their worst when you take your first few steps after resting for a long period of time, such as when you first get out of bed in the morning. Plantar fasciitis is a common diagnosis, affecting about 10% of the population. A podiatrist can easily diagnose plantar fasciitis by taking a medical history and examining your foot. Imaging studies are rarely needed, but may be ordered if the doctor suspects a different underlying cause to your heel pain. If you are suffering from heel pain, please schedule an appointment with a podiatrist near you. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

The summer months are the time when many people expose their toes to the world, walking barefoot on the beach and at the pool. But all of this barefoot walking can unfortunately increase your risk of developing a fungal infection of the toenails. Toenail fungus usually presents as thickening and discoloration of the toenails. It is highly contagious, and can spread from an infected surface or person to you. To minimize your risk of contracting this difficult-to-treat infection, it is suggested that you wear shoes when frequenting public areas, especially if those areas are warm, humid, and moist - think public pools, showers, and locker rooms. You should also avoid sharing personal items, such as shoes, socks, and towels, with other people. Toenail fungus infections can affect anyone, but are generally more common in older individuals and those with nail injuries, weakened immune systems, or diabetes. If you are suffering from toenail fungus, a podiatrist can help you treat this condition. 

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 one of our podiatrists of Canonsburg Podiatry Associates. Our doctors 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 Canonsburg and McMurray, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.