Items filtered by date: January 2024

Achilles tendon injuries affect both seasoned athletes and occasional fitness enthusiasts alike. The Achilles tendon, the body's largest tendon, spans from the heel bone to the calf muscles. This strong tendon enables foot extension and toe pointing. Overuse, rapid escalation of physical activity, and inadequate pre-activity stretching can result in a painful inflammation known as Achilles tendonitis. As the activity continues, the injury may worsen and cause partial or total ruptures. Common in various sports such as running, gymnastics, and basketball, symptoms of Achilles tendon injuries include pain along the back of the foot and above the heel. This discomfort intensifies during ankle stretching or toe-standing. Diagnosis involves thorough physical examinations and additional tests such as musculoskeletal ultrasonography, MRI, and radiography. Treatment varies based on severity, ranging from rest, crutches, and cold compresses for mild cases to surgical intervention for severe ruptures. To navigate Achilles tendon injuries effectively, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a full exam and a correct treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. 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 Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Pain in the big toe can be attributed to various causes, including arthritis, fractures, and gout. While most cases are manageable with conservative remedies, certain conditions like sesamoiditis may necessitate more specialized treatment. Arthritis, specifically hallux rigidus, is a common culprit, often affecting individuals over the age of 50, particularly women. Ingrown toenails can also lead to discomfort when toenails are cut too short or improperly. Gout, characterized by the buildup of uric acid in joints, frequently targets the big toe joint. Turf toe, a sports-related injury resulting from repetitive bending or jamming, is more prevalent among athletes on artificial turf. Sesamoiditis, common in runners and ballet dancers, results from inflammation of tendons around the sesamoid bones below the big toe. Toe fractures are commonplace due to various activities or accidents. Bunions, deformities at the base of the big toe, can cause discomfort and joint inflammation. Other potential causes encompass nail infections, Raynaud's disease, Morton's neuroma, and rheumatoid arthritis. If you have unexplained, persistent big toe pain, or if it is worsening, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact David Mansky, DPM of Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

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

In the realm of footwear, the quest for the perfect fit begins with precision in measurement, and the venerable Brannock device stands as an iconic ally in this pursuit. It has been known to accurately measure foot size, which is vital to buying shoes that fit correctly. Wearing shoes that are either too snug or excessively loose can result in discomfort as well as various foot issues. Prolonged use of ill-fitting shoes can contribute to the development of toe deformities, corns, and calluses. Plus, with age, your feet undergo slight alterations in both length and width. Therefore, it becomes necessary to regularly measure your feet, especially if your once-comfortable shoes are now causing foot problems. Developed in the early 20th century, the Brannock device provides a comprehensive assessment of your foot’s dimensions. Start by placing the heel snugly against the back of the device and spreading the toes naturally along its width. This is how accurate foot measurements are taken. If you are having trouble determining your shoe size, or are experiencing foot pain caused by your shoes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Peripheral neuropathy, a condition stemming from nerve damage in the peripheral nervous system, manifests as a range of symptoms that can significantly impact the feet. The peripheral nerves, responsible for transmitting signals between the body and the brain, may become compromised, leading to sensations like tingling, numbness, or foot pain. This condition often arises from various underlying causes, including diabetes, certain medications, or even infections. The feet, being distant from the central nervous system, are particularly vulnerable to peripheral neuropathy. The impaired nerve function can affect balance and coordination, increasing the risk of injuries. Moreover, individuals with peripheral neuropathy may experience difficulty in detecting temperature or pressure changes, raising concerns about foot health. If you have symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you manage this condition.

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 David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. 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:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

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 our office located in Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

With age, the body undergoes various changes, and your feet are no exception. Senior adults often experience common foot ailments that can affect their mobility and overall well-being. Some prevalent foot ailments that seniors may encounter include plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the ligament that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot. It causes pain in both areas and is sometimes associated with heel spurs. Bunions, also known as hallux valgus, involve a painful bony buildup on the big toe joint, often causing the big toe to bend toward the smaller toes. Heredity plays a role, and years of wearing narrow or high-heeled shoes can make it worse. Morton's neuroma, a painful condition, is caused by a swollen, inflamed nerve. It typically affects the ball of the foot between the third and fourth toes and can feel like having a small rock in the shoe. It is more prevalent in women who have worn high heels or narrow shoes. Additionally, aging can lead to a reduction in the natural padding under the feet, making it essential for seniors to choose footwear with adequate cushioning. Regular foot care, appropriate footwear, and professional guidance from a podiatrist can significantly enhance foot health. If you are a senior, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if you need help with any type of foot pain.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact David Mansky, DPM from Mansky Podiatry. 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 Hastings, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.