An Achilles tendon injury, commonly known as Achilles tendonitis, is a condition caused by inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel. It often develops from overuse while walking and running. Symptoms include pain that is worse in the morning, swelling, and a warm to- the-touch sensation along the back of the ankle. Risk factors include tight calf muscles, improper footwear, and sudden increases in activity level. Without treatment, the condition can worsen and limit mobility. A podiatrist can provide diagnosis, recommend stretching and strengthening programs, and offer supportive care. If you have symptoms of this type of injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 Reno, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A dancer’s fracture is a specific type of break that affects the fifth metatarsal, the long bone on the outer side of the foot that connects the little toe to the middle of the foot. This injury often occurs after a sudden twisting motion, awkward landing, or direct impact that places strong force on the outer edge of the foot. Although it is commonly seen in dancers and athletes, anyone can develop this fracture during daily activities or sports. Symptoms of a dancer’s fracture include sharp outer foot pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty walking or bearing weight. The break is usually diagonal along the middle portion of the bone. A podiatrist can perform a thorough exam, order X-rays to confirm the injury, and create a treatment plan to support proper healing. If you believe you have sustained a foot fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Arthritis in the toes is a joint-related condition defined as chronic inflammation affecting the small joints of the forefoot. This inflammation may develop from gradual wear and tear associated with osteoarthritis, or from immune system-related changes seen in rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, restricted movement, redness, warmth, and gradual joint deformities that may affect walking comfort. Although movement can feel uncomfortable, gentle walking may help maintain joint flexibility and circulation, which supports overall foot function. Causes include aging-related joint stress, previous injury, or inflammatory disease. A podiatrist can evaluate joint health, reduce pressure on affected areas, and recommend supportive treatment. If toe pain or swelling develops, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

A blood blister is a raised pocket of skin filled with blood that forms when small blood vessels beneath the surface are damaged. On the foot, this often occurs when the skin is pinched or crushed by tight shoes, repetitive friction, or sudden trauma. Athletes, people who stand for long periods, and those wearing ill-fitting footwear face higher risk. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, redness, and discomfort while walking. Unlike clear blisters, blood blisters appear dark red or purple. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, relieve pressure safely, help prevent infection, and recommend proper footwear or protective padding. If you have a painful foot blister, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief, treatment and prevention tips.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact one of our podiatrists of Mt Rose Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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