Dallas (214) 340-8885
Athens (903) 677-9090
Gun Barrel City (903) 887-4341
Dallas (214) 340-8885
Athens (903) 677-9090
Gun Barrel City (903) 887-4341
Achilles tendon injuries involve damage to the strong band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. These injuries can range from inflammation to partial or complete tears. Common causes include overuse, sudden increases in activity, tight calf muscles, or improper footwear. Symptoms include heel pain, stiffness, swelling, or a snapping sensation during movement. Risk factors include intense physical activity, poor conditioning, and certain medical conditions. A podiatrist can diagnose the injury through examination and imaging, then recommend treatments such as rest, stretching, or orthotics. If you are experiencing pain in the back of the heel, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz of Texas Foot Works. 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
Rupture Symptoms
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:
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
Diabetic neuropathy is a common complication of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves, particularly in the feet. Symptoms typically include numbness, tingling, burning, or sharp pain. However, a lesser-known symptom is the loss of temperature sensitivity, which can lead to unrecognized burns from hot surfaces or heating pads. The feet may appear normal or have dry, cracked skin due to reduced sweat production. Over time, nerve damage can lead to muscle weakness and changes in foot shape, increasing the risk of pressure sores or ulcers. A podiatrist diagnoses diabetic neuropathy through a physical exam, nerve testing, and by assessing skin and circulation health. Treatment focuses on managing blood sugar, protecting the feet, using custom orthotics, and preventing complications with regular checkups and foot care education. If you are dealing with this condition, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Dr. Jonathan Kletz from Texas Foot Works. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.
What Is Neuropathy?
Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.
Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:
Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.
Treatment
To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.
Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.
Foot and ankle pain during multi-day bike rides is common and can affect performance and enjoyment. One issue is hot foot, or burning pain and numbness in the ball of the foot caused by pressure on nerves from wearing tight shoes or long hours of pedaling. Pain along the outside edge of the foot may result from improper foot positioning or cleat alignment. Achilles tendonitis, marked by pain and stiffness in the back of the ankle, often stems from overuse or poor bike fit. A podiatrist can assess biomechanical problems, recommend footwear, and offer custom orthotics to relieve pain. For lasting relief and injury prevention, it is suggested that you schedule a consultation with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer effective treatment solutions.
Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Dr. Jonathan Kletz of Texas Foot Works. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:
Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our our offices located in Dallas, Athens, and Gun Barrel City, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
