The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the muscles in your calf to your heel. Injuries to this tissue can be common, especially among athletes. The typical symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury can include pain down the back of your leg near your heel, pain that worsens with activity, stiffness or soreness in the Achilles tendon upon waking, pain in the tendon the day after exercising, swelling that worsens with activity, thickening of the tendon, bone spurs on the heel bone, and difficulty flexing the affected foot. If you are injured and hear a popping sound, followed by a sudden, sharp pain, this could be indicative of an Achilles tendon rupture. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please consult with a podiatrist. 

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Shawn Echard, DPM of Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner 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 offices located in Greensburg and Somerset, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A podiatrist is a medical specialist who focuses on the health of the feet and ankles. Their training prepares them to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, from everyday issues like ingrown toenails and calluses to more complex problems such as fractures, tendon injuries, and diabetic foot complications. Podiatrists also play a vital role in identifying circulation problems, nerve damage, and structural changes that may affect walking and balance. Treatments can include custom orthotics, wound care, and surgical procedures, when needed. Beyond addressing pain and injury, podiatrists work to prevent long-term complications by monitoring changes in the feet that might signal larger health concerns. This combination of medical knowledge and hands-on care allows patients to maintain mobility and independence. For concerns related to foot or ankle health, or if you are interested in pursuing podiatry as a career choice, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist.

If you are dealing with pain in your feet and ankles, you may want to seek help from a podiatrist. Feel free to contact Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Podiatrist?

A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine who diagnoses and treats conditions of the foot, ankle, and related structures of the leg. Your podiatrist may specialize in a certain field such as sports medicine, wound care, pediatrics, and diabetic care. Podiatrists have the ability to become board certified through training, clinical experience, and then taking an exam.

What Do Podiatrists Do?

On a daily basis, a podiatrist may perform the following activities:

• Diagnose foot ailments such as ulcers, tumors, fractures, etc.
• Use innovative methods to treat conditions
• Use corrective orthotics, casts, and strappings to correct deformities
• Correct walking patterns and balance
• Provide individual consultations to patients

It is very important that you take care of your feet. It’s easy to take having healthy feet for granted, however foot problems tend to be among the most common health conditions. Podiatrists can help diagnose and treat a variety of feet related conditions, so it is crucial that you visit one if you need assistance.

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

During pregnancy, many women experience noticeable changes in their feet due to natural physical and hormonal adjustments. Feet may increase in size as ligaments loosen, arches may flatten, and additional weight can increase pressure on joints, often reducing overall foot stability. These changes can lead to discomfort or difficulty with mobility. Choosing the right footwear is essential for support and comfort. Shoes with a wide toe box, proper arch support, cushioned heels, adjustable fit, and breathable materials can help reduce pain and improve balance. A podiatrist can provide personalized guidance, treatments, and support throughout pregnancy. If you have developed foot pain during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional relief tactics.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. It often develops from repetitive stress, overuse, flat feet, high arches, or wearing shoes that lack adequate support. Risk factors include obesity, prolonged standing, excessive running, and tight calf muscles. Symptoms typically involve sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning, swelling, and stiffness. A podiatrist can help by evaluating foot mechanics, prescribing custom orthotics, and suggesting stretching exercises and supportive footwear. Providing targeted treatments to reduce inflammation and pain are other factors. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Shawn Echard, DPM from Laurel Podiatry LLC. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

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