The Achilles tendon is a strong band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of your lower legs, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. When this tendon is injured, typically as a result of overuse, wearing the wrong shoes, or having another foot problem, it can become inflamed. A mild Achilles tendon injury is characterized by pain during or shortly after physical activity. A moderate injury may cause swelling in the tendon, and a hard lump called a nodule may form. A severe injury is characterized by pain while bearing weight. In some cases, the tendon can rupture, which is said to feel like a hard whack on the heel. If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Joan Oloff, DPM of Los Gatos 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 our office located in Los Gatos, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

When you apply weight to your foot, the skin on your heels expands. If this skin is dry and lacking elasticity, cracks in the skin may eventually form. Dry, cold weather, obesity, open-back shoes, standing on hard floors for an extended period of time, and conditions that cause dry skin can all contribute to heels becoming stiff and cracked. To avoid getting cracked heels, keep them moisturized. The best way to seal in moisture is to apply ointment or cream—containing hyaluronic or lactic acid, mineral oil, lanolin or petrolatum—right after a shower or bath. If your heels are already thickened and cracked, you can try to thin them down by gently rubbing them with a pumice stone or applying a keratolytic agent, unless you have diabetes, nerve damage, or poor circulation. If cracked heels are allowed to deepen, they may become painful and bleed, and possibly even become infected. If your cracked heels have progressed to this point, or you need help getting them smooth and supple again, make an appointment with your local podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Joan Oloff, DPM from Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

If the arch of the foot collapses while bearing weight, it is known as overpronation.  When the frame of the foot collapses overpronation causes stress and inflammation to the feet leading to a variety of conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, metatarsalgia, tendonitis, or bunions. Overpronation is common among those who have flexible flat feet, but other factors like obesity and pregnancy can also cause flat feet. Some patients with overpronation never develop symptoms or feel pain, but if symptoms are present the pain is extreme and walking becomes difficult. This causes intense strain on the feet and calves. Patients who experience overpronation should wear footwear that fits properly and also has a firm and supportive heel. These patients may even be prescribed orthotics to support the arch of the foot. Anyone who is afflicted with overpronation should consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment recommendation. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Joan Oloff, DPM from Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . 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 Los Gatos, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain has many potential causes, ranging from simple fatigue to serious injuries. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine when you should manage your ankle pain at home and when you should seek medical care since ankle pain and accompanying symptoms may start out mild and worsen over time. Pay close attention to your symptoms. You should see a podiatrist if the ankle is misshapen, the calf is hot, swollen, or tender, or if you have difficulty putting weight on your leg. You should also schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you have ankle pain that is worsening. If there is significant trauma to the ankle, it is imperative that you seek the care of a podiatrist immediately.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Joan Oloff, DPM from Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Joint deformities are sometimes a complication of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Fortunately, joint deformities are becoming less common thanks to early detection and treatment. Nevertheless, it is helpful to be aware of joint deformity caused by RA and what can be done to treat it. The most common types of joint deformities in the feet of people with RA are claw, mallet, and hammertoes. People with these deformities have toes that are stuck in a bent position at one of the toe joints. These conditions can be treated through the use of orthotic devices, such as insoles or splints, or with surgery. If you have RA, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you maintain your foot health. 

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Joan Oloff, DPM of Los Gatos Foot and Ankle . Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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