Achilles tendon injuries in children often result from overuse or sudden increases in physical activity, particularly in sports that involve running and jumping. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, and repetitive strain can lead to inflammation, tendonitis, or even partial tears. Common symptoms include pain and stiffness at the back of the ankle, especially in the morning or after periods of rest, as well as difficulty while walking or running. Growth spurts in children can make them more vulnerable to these injuries as muscles and tendons tighten during rapid growth. If your child experiences persistent Achilles pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who will evaluate the injury, recommend treatments such as rest and specific stretches, in addition to providing guidance on how to safely return to physical activity without risking further damage.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. 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 Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, begins as a small white or yellow spot under the nail. As the fungus spreads, the nail can thicken, become discolored, and develop a brittle or crumbly texture. Without treatment, the fungus can worsen, leading to overgrowth, making it difficult to trim nails, and causing discomfort when walking. In severe cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed, increasing the risk of bacterial infection. Signs that toenail fungus is getting worse include increased nail thickening, spreading discoloration, foul odor, and pain. If left untreated, the infection can spread to surrounding skin, causing more severe issues like cellulitis. If you have signs of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

For more information about treatment, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. 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 contact our office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle and foot arthropathies refer to joint diseases that affect the ankle and foot. These conditions can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited movement. Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis occurs when the cartilage between bones wears down, causing discomfort. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the joints, and can be quite uncomfortable. Gout results from a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden pain and swelling. Treatment typically involves rest, and depending on the severity of the condition, targeted stretching, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation. In some cases, surgery is required. Wearing supportive shoes or using orthotics can also help relieve pressure on the joints. If you are experiencing persistent foot or ankle pain, it may indicate arthritis, and it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

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 Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. 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 Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that typically affects the skin between the toes, though it can spread to other areas of the foot. It often appears as red, itchy, and scaly patches, sometimes with blisters or cracks in the skin. The infection causes a burning or stinging sensation and can lead to peeling skin or thickened areas, particularly on the soles or edges of the foot. Athlete's foot spreads easily through direct contact with contaminated surfaces, such as locker room floors, showers, or towels, making it extremely contagious. If left untreated, the infection can worsen, leading to more widespread skin damage, secondary bacterial infections, or even spreading to the nails, causing onychomycosis. Treatment and prevention include keeping feet clean and dry and wearing breathable footwear. In persistent cases, prescription-strength antifungal medications may be needed to fully resolve the infection. If you have athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for care.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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

Ankylosing spondylitis, or AS, is a type of arthritis that primarily impacts the spine but can also affect other areas, including the heel. In people with AS, inflammation can extend to the tendons and ligaments surrounding the heel, causing significant discomfort. This condition can lead to heel pain, swelling, and stiffness, which may worsen with activity or after prolonged periods of rest. Often, the inflammation in the heel is due to enthesitis, which is inflammation where tendons and ligaments attach to the bone. Managing heel pain associated with Ankylosing spondylitis typically involves a combination of medications to reduce inflammation, exercises to improve mobility, and proper footwear to provide adequate support. If you are experiencing heel pain and suspect it might be linked to AS, it is suggested that you seek specialized care from a podiatrist. A podiatrist can offer targeted treatments and strategies to alleviate discomfort and improve your quality of life.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.