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Achilles tendon injuries are among the most common seen in athletes, particularly those involved in running, jumping, or sports requiring explosive movements. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is essential for mobility, providing the necessary strength and flexibility for activities like sprinting, jumping, and walking. Athletes who participate in high-intensity sports such as basketball, soccer, and track are at a higher risk of experiencing Achilles tendon injuries, often due to repetitive strain or sudden, forceful movements. These injuries can range from tendinitis, which causes inflammation and pain, to complete tendon tears, which may require surgery for recovery. Overuse, inadequate warm-up routines, poor footwear, and muscle imbalances are common contributing factors. If you are athletic and have sustained an Achille tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, enabling you to return to your desired sport as quickly as possible.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Gary Cesar of Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. 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 offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a form of arthritis that causes sudden and severe pain in the joints, frequently the big toe. The symptoms typically include redness, swelling, and intense pain that may last for hours or days. If left untreated, gout can lead to recurring flare-ups and long-term joint damage. Early treatment is vital in managing gout and preventing complications, such as joint deformities or kidney stones. Addressing the condition early with medication and lifestyle changes can reduce inflammation and pain, and help maintain joint function. Several risk factors contribute to the development of gout, including obesity, a diet high in purine-rich foods like red meat and seafood, excessive alcohol consumption, and family history. Additionally, conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes can increase the likelihood of developing gout. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Chronic ankle instability occurs when the ankle repeatedly gives out, often due to weakened ligaments from prior injuries like sprains. Over time, the ligaments fail to provide sufficient support, leading to instability and persistent pain. This condition is common in athletes and individuals who engage in activities involving quick turns or uneven surfaces. The pain typically feels like a dull ache or sharp twinge on the outer side of the ankle, often worsening with activity. Swelling, tenderness, and a sense of wobbliness may accompany the discomfort. Repeated instability can cause further injuries, cartilage damage, or arthritis. If you have chronic ankle stability, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can recommend treatments such as targeted exercises to strengthen the ankle, bracing for support, or, in severe cases, surgery.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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