The Achilles tendon is the thick band on the back of the ankle that connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Achilles tendon injuries are often overuse injuries or sudden traumas. One common injury, Achilles tendonitis, occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed near its connection to the heel bone. Achilles tendon ruptures are also common, and they can be very painful and may take a long time to heal. Because a lack of flexibility is the most common cause of injury to the Achilles tendon, proper stretching of the lower legs before working out is the most important step to prevent an injury. When healing from the injury, non-impact exercises, such as swimming and cycling, are highly suggested to keep you as in shape as possible. If you have questions about preventing an injury, or you believe you may have injured your Achilles tendon, please consult with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. 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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Fungal toenail infections, also known as onychomycosis, are common infections that lead to the nails becoming discolored, yellowed, thickened, and brittle, often causing them to break. They are usually caused by fungi or yeast that enter into small cracks in the nail, ultimately infecting them. While toenail infections can affect people of any age, they are more likely in patients who have a nail injury, a weakened immune system, are older, or have athlete’s foot. The easiest way to prevent these infections is to keep the toes clean and dry. Fungi thrives in warm and moist environments, so it is important to not walk barefoot in public locker rooms and showers. Because fungal nail infections are difficult to cure, it is important to visit with a podiatrist if you notice signs of toenail fungus.

For more information about treatment, contact Harvey Jacobs, DPM of Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

People who enjoy running are generally aware of the importance of having strong and stable feet. This can be accomplished by frequently performing stretching techniques that are designed to keep the feet flexible and strong. The feet are comprised of different types of muscles. Shorter muscles are known as intrinsic muscles, and are found inside the foot. They are responsible for moving the feet, and providing stability. A simple and effective movement known as toe curling can help to improve overall foot function. Additionally, the toes may become stronger when an effort is made to keep the big toe on the floor while lifting the other toes. Research has indicated the ankle will benefit when heel lifts are performed. If you would like more information about the importance of stretching the feet, or suggestions on specific foot stretches, please consult with a podiatrist.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Great ways to stretch your feet:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

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

Research has indicated many elderly people have difficulty recovering from injuries that have occurred from falling. This can lead to a loss of independence, disability, and possibly chronic pain. There are simple measures that can be implemented which may help to reduce the risk of falling. These can include participating in a routine exercise program, improving the lighting in the household, and removing worn carpeting. Existing medications can be reviewed when regular physical and eye examinations are performed. If you would like additional information about the effects falling can have on the feet, please speak with a podiatrist.

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 Harvey Jacobs, DPM from Quality Foot Care Center. Our doctor 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 Somerset, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.