As pickleball surges in popularity, especially among older adults, so does the incidence of injuries, with Achilles tendon ruptures topping the list. This fast-paced sport combines quick starts, sharp turns, and sudden stops, placing significant strain on the lower body. Older male players are particularly vulnerable due to reduced flexibility, weaker tendons, and a greater likelihood of prior wear-and-tear injuries. Overuse and inadequate warm-ups can further increase the risk of Achilles tendon damage, which often occurs during abrupt lunges or rapid changes in direction. Proper preparation, including stretching, strengthening exercises, and wearing supportive footwear, is imperative for minimizing injury risks. Taking rest days and listening to your body also play a vital role in prevention. If you have persistent lower limb pain or injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to ensure prompt treatment and guidance.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot 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 Wikesboro, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Arthritis in the feet often starts with subtle symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness, which can worsen over time. Early signs include discomfort in the toes, arch, or heels, especially after prolonged activity or in the morning. Swelling may occur around the joints, and you might notice difficulty moving the toes or walking without limping. Arthritis in the feet is commonly caused by wear and tear or autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Risk factors include age, family history, injury, or being overweight. Over time, untreated arthritis can lead to joint damage and deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes. Treatments for foot arthritis typically include rest, medication for pain and inflammation, and custom orthotics to improve foot alignment. In some cases, targeted exercises or surgical options may be necessary. If you are noticing pain or swelling in your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can help manage symptoms and prevent further joint damage.
Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Arthritic Foot Care
Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.
In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.
Alleviating Arthritic Pain
Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.
It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Wikesboro, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Congenital foot conditions are present at birth and can affect the alignment and structure of the feet. Such foot problems are common, where the bones and soft tissues do not develop properly, leading to abnormal foot shapes. One such condition is flatfoot, where the arches do not develop, resulting in a foot that appears flat when standing. Another condition is hallux valgus, commonly known as a bunion, where the big toe points inward, causing a bony bump at the joint. Splay foot occurs when the arch flattens, causing the toes to spread out and increase the width of the foot. Hollow foot, or cavus foot, is characterized by an excessively high arch, leading to pain and difficulty in walking. These conditions may vary in severity, and early diagnosis can help prevent long-term issues. If you have any of the above foot conditions, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatments.
Congenital foot problems require immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD of Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Congenital foot problems are deformities affecting the feet, toes, and/or ankles that children are born with. Some of these conditions have a genetic cause while others just happen. Some specific foot ailments that children may be born with include clubfeet, polydactyly/macrodactyly, and cleft foot. There are several other foot anomalies that can occur congenitally. What all of these conditions have in common is that a child may experience difficulty walking or performing everyday activities, as well as trouble finding footwear that fits their foot deformity. Some of these conditions are more serious than others. Consulting with a podiatrist as early as possible will help in properly diagnosing a child’s foot condition while getting the necessary treatment underway.
What are Causes of Congenital Foot Problem?
A congenital foot problem is one that happens to a child at birth. These conditions can be caused by a genetic predisposition, developmental or positional abnormalities during gestation, or with no known cause.
What are Symptoms of Congenital Foot Problems?
Symptoms vary by the congenital condition. Symptoms may consist of the following:
Clubfoot, where tendons are shortened, bones are shaped differently, and the Achilles tendon is tight, causing the foot to point in and down. It is also possible for the soles of the feet to face each other.
Polydactyly, which usually consists of a nubbin or small lump of tissue without a bone, a toe that is partially formed but has no joints, or an extra toe.
Vertical talus, where the talus bone forms in the wrong position causing other bones in the foot to line up improperly, the front of the foot to point up, and the bottom of the foot to stiffen, with no arch, and to curve out.
Tarsal coalition, when there is an abnormal connection of two or more bones in the foot leading to severe, rigid flatfoot.
Cleft foot, where there are missing toes, a V-shaped cleft, and other anatomical differences.
Macrodactyly, when the toes are abnormally large due to overgrowth of the underlying bone or soft tissue.
Treatment and Prevention
While there is nothing one can do to prevent congenital foot problems, raising awareness and receiving neonatal screenings are important. Early detection by taking your child to a podiatrist leads to the best outcome possible.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wikesboro, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
As people age, the feet undergo changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility challenges. Years of wear and tear, in addition to conditions such as arthritis or diabetes, can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness. The natural thinning of the fat pads that cushion the feet may increase foot pain when walking and standing. Furthermore, reduced bone density, particularly seen in post-menopausal women, can increase the risk of stress fractures. Joint inflammation and nerve damage, often associated with aging, can also affect balance and increase the likelihood of falls. Poor circulation, common in older adults, can delay healing and make the feet more susceptible to injuries or infections. A podiatrist can assess the type of foot pain you have and recommend custom orthotics, certain medication to relieve pain, or ways to enhance mobility. If you are a senior suffering from foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.
Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Scott Matthews, DPM, MD from Salem Foot Care . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
The Elderly and Their Feet
As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.
Common Conditions
Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles
Susceptible Infections
Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Wikesboro, NC. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
