Tuesday, 29 April 2025 00:00

An Achilles tendon rupture is a significant injury that often occurs during sports or sudden movement, usually felt as a sharp pain or a popping sensation in the back of the ankle. Walking becomes difficult, and pushing off the foot may feel impossible. Management depends on the severity of the tear and the patient’s overall health and activity level. Non-surgical treatment includes immobilization with a cast or walking boot, followed by specific exercises to restore strength and flexibility. Surgical repair may be recommended for younger or more active individuals to reduce the risk of re-rupture and support a quicker return to activity. Both approaches require a period of rest, followed by a carefully guided rehabilitation program. Prompt diagnosis is key to determining the most effective treatment. If you experience sudden pain or loss of function in your lower leg, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM of Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist 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 Clifton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about The Causes, Types, and Treatments of Achilles Tendon Injuries
Tuesday, 22 April 2025 00:00

Pain in the bottom of the foot, especially sharp pain or a burning sensation, can be caused by several conditions. One common cause is plantar fasciitis, where the tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, often leading to sharp pain near the heel. Another potential cause is neuropathy, a condition where nerve damage causes a burning or tingling sensation. Metatarsalgia or inflammation of the ball of the foot can also lead to discomfort, often described as a feeling of standing on a small stone. Symptoms typically include sharp or burning pain in the foot's arch or heel, especially after standing or walking for long periods. The area may feel tender, swollen, or tight. A podiatrist can help diagnose the underlying cause through physical exams, imaging tests, or nerve function tests. Treatment may include rest, stretching exercises, custom orthotics or anti-inflammatory medications. If you are dealing with foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for care.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Zina Cappiello, DPM from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This 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

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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

Read more about Foot Pain
Tuesday, 15 April 2025 00:00

Wearing the correct shoe size is vital for foot health and overall comfort. Shoes that are too tight or too loose can cause a variety of foot problems. Wearing tight shoes can lead to blisters, calluses, and bunions, while shoes that are too loose can cause instability, leading to sprained ankles or difficulty walking. Inappropriate shoe sizes can also contribute to conditions like hammertoes, corns, or nerve damage. Additionally, wearing ill-fitting shoes can impact posture, leading to back, knee, or hip pain. Children’s feet are especially prone to damage if their shoes do not fit properly as they are still growing. If you have foot pain, possibly from wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on how to find your right shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Zina Cappiello, DPM from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist 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 Clifton, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size: To Keep Your Feet Happy
Tuesday, 08 April 2025 00:00

Plantar fasciitis is a well-known cause of heel pain, often felt as a sharp, stabbing sensation with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The condition results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. While it can be persistent, several strategies may help reduce discomfort and promote healing. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and reduce strain. Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioned soles is essential for daily comfort. Custom orthotics can also help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot. Using anti-inflammatory medications may ease pain in the short term. However, if you are experiencing ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Zina Cappiello, DPM  from Dr. Zina B. Cappiello DPM, LLC. Our podiatrist can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

  • Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
  • Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
  • Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

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

Read more about Plantar Fasciitis

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