Achilles tendon pain affects the back of the ankle, where the tendon connects the heel bone to the calf muscles. This tendon plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping, which makes it vulnerable to overuse or injury. Achilles tendon pain may stem from a partial or complete tear, often caused by sudden stress during sports or exercise, or from tendinitis, which occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed. Symptoms of Achilles tendon pain include swelling near the heel, stiffness in the ankle, difficulty walking, or a sharp pain accompanied by a snapping sound at the time of injury. Risk factors include sudden changes in activity, having flat feet, footwear that lacks adequate support, or repetitive stress from running on uneven surfaces. A podiatrist can diagnose Achilles tendon pain through a physical examination and imaging tests in order to provide treatment options that range from supportive devices to surgery, if necessary. If you are suffering from pain related to your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors 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 . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a long-term condition that can affect multiple joints, and the feet are often impacted in ways that change a child’s daily life. Inflammation may appear in the ankles, midfoot, or toes, leading to stiffness, pain, and swelling that limit mobility. Some children develop flatfoot or toe deformities, which place added strain on walking and balance. These challenges may cause hesitation in sports or even in simple play, reducing confidence and independence. Wearing supportive shoes, custom orthoses, and targeted exercises can help maintain movement, while medical treatment addresses the underlying inflammation. Early care is essential because preventing deformity is easier than correcting it, once established. Families who notice that a child struggles with foot pain or changes in walking should not delay seeking professional guidance. If your child has foot pain related to juvenile idiopathic arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

When circulation is compromised, the feet, ankles, and legs are often the first to show signs of trouble. Vascular disease restricts the flow of oxygen-rich blood, which can slow healing, weaken tissues, and increase the risk of infection. Even minor cuts, scrapes, or blisters may linger and become chronic wounds because the body is unable to deliver the nutrients needed for repair. Over time, this reduced circulation can also cause skin discoloration, cramping, and a heavy or tired feeling in the legs. People with diabetes or peripheral artery disease face even greater risks, as poor blood flow can lead to ulcers or more serious complications. Protecting the lower limbs means monitoring for changes, avoiding injuries, and seeking care quickly if a wound does not heal. It is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis, management, and treatment.

Vascular testing plays an important part in diagnosing disease like peripheral artery disease. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, or diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Vascular Testing?

Vascular testing checks for how well blood circulation is in the veins and arteries. This is most often done to determine and treat a patient for peripheral artery disease (PAD), stroke, and aneurysms. Podiatrists utilize vascular testing when a patient has symptoms of PAD or if they believe they might. If a patient has diabetes, a podiatrist may determine a vascular test to be prudent to check for poor blood circulation.

How Is it Conducted?

Most forms of vascular testing are non-invasive. Podiatrists will first conduct a visual inspection for any wounds, discoloration, and any abnormal signs prior to a vascular test.

 The most common tests include:

• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) examination
• Doppler examination
• Pedal pulses

These tests are safe, painless, and easy to do. Once finished, the podiatrist can then provide a diagnosis and the best course for treatment.

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

Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop from repeated pressure or friction, but they are not the same. Corns are smaller, often round, and usually form on the tops or sides of toes. They can be painful when pressed and may feel like a hard pebble under the skin. Calluses are broader, less defined, and typically appear on the soles or heels, usually without pain. Both conditions are caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, abnormal gait, or prolonged standing. Visually, corns appear as dense, raised bumps with a hard center, while calluses look like rough, thick patches of skin. A podiatrist can determine the cause and type through physical examination. Treatment may involve gentle removal of thickened skin, padding, custom orthotics, and footwear advice to relieve pressure and prevent recurrence. For persistent or painful corns, minor procedures may be recommended. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to properly treat and prevent corns and calluses.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact one of our podiatrists of Pima Foot and Ankle Surgery. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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