Items filtered by date: July 2025

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. Thomas E. Silver of Westwood Foot Clinic. 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 Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Type 1 diabetes can affect many parts of the body, including the feet. High blood sugar levels over time may damage nerves and reduce circulation, making it harder to feel or notice small injuries. Even minor pressure from a poorly trimmed toenail can lead to inflammation or an ingrown nail, especially if shoes are tight or put stress on the toes. People with diabetes are also more prone to infections, and what starts as a simple nail problem can become more serious if left untreated. Thickened or brittle nails, often seen in diabetic patients, may be harder to trim properly, increasing the chance of the nail growing into the skin. Proper nail care and early attention to changes in the feet are essential for avoiding complications. If you notice redness, swelling, or pain surrounding a toenail, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. It often develops from wearing tight shoes or high heels that force the toes into a curled position. Causes may also include muscle imbalance, trauma, or arthritis. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. Risk factors include age, foot structure, and a history of foot problems. If left untreated, the joint can become rigid and require surgery to correct the problem. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, recommend proper footwear, suggest exercises, or provide splints or custom orthotics. If you have symptoms of hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dr. Thomas E. Silver from Westwood Foot Clinic. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Golden Valley, MN . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.