The Achilles tendon is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays a vital role in walking, running, and jumping. Acute Achilles tendon conditions develop suddenly, often due to a specific injury or overload, while chronic conditions develop gradually over time due to repeated stress. Achilles tendonitis and tendinosis are common chronic issues that result from micro-tears and degeneration within the tendon. These conditions are frequently seen in active individuals and those who spend long hours on their feet.

Symptoms of Achilles tendon problems may include pain along the back of the heel, stiffness in the morning, swelling, and difficulty with movement. Acute injuries often present with sudden sharp pain, while chronic conditions tend to cause a dull ache that worsens with activity. In more advanced cases, thickening of the tendon or reduced flexibility may occur. Recognizing these symptoms early can help prevent worsening damage and improve recovery outcomes.

Several risk factors contribute to Achilles tendon injuries. These include tight calf muscles, wearing poor footwear, and flat feet or high arches. Sudden increases in physical activity and improper training techniques may also contribute to the problem. Age also plays a role, as the tendon becomes less flexible over time. Occupations that require prolonged standing or repetitive movement can increase strain on the tendon and lead to chronic irritation.

Proper treatment depends on the severity and duration of the condition. Rest, stretching, and supportive footwear can reduce stress on the tendon and promote healing. Early intervention is essential in preventing long term complications. If you have consistent pain or stiffness in the back of your heel, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. 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 office located in Westland, MI. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that often affects the foot, especially the joint at the base of the big toe. It develops when high levels of uric acid in the blood form tiny crystals inside a joint. These crystals can trigger sudden episodes of severe pain, swelling, and redness. During a gout flare, the affected joint may also feel warm and become extremely sensitive to touch. Although symptoms often begin in the big toe, gout can also affect the ankles, heels, or other joints in the feet. The pain may come on quickly, sometimes during the night, and make walking difficult. Because other foot conditions can cause similar symptoms, a professional evaluation is important for an accurate diagnosis.

A podiatrist can examine the affected foot and determine whether gout may be causing your symptoms. During the evaluation, the podiatrist checks the painful joint, reviews your medical history, and may recommend additional testing to confirm the diagnosis. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and whether other foot problems are present. Professional gout treatment focuses on reducing joint damage, improving comfort, and helping restore normal foot function. A podiatrist can also monitor changes over time and work with your primary healthcare provider when ongoing medical management is needed. Early treatment may help reduce the risk of repeated flare-ups and lasting joint damage.

Professional podiatry care plays an important role in managing foot pain caused by gout. Prompt evaluation can help identify the condition before repeated attacks lead to long-term joint problems or changes in foot function. A podiatrist develops a treatment plan based on your symptoms and overall foot health while monitoring your recovery. Professional foot care can also improve comfort and support better mobility during everyday activities. If you have sudden pain, swelling, or redness in your big toe or foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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

Sever's disease is one of the most frequent causes of heel pain in active children. It occurs when repetitive stress affects the growth plate in the heel, leading to irritation and discomfort. As children grow, their bones develop quickly, while muscles and tendons may remain tight. This creates increased tension at the heel, particularly during sports and physical activity. The condition is most often seen in children between 8 and 14 years old who are involved in activities that require running and jumping.

Common symptoms include heel pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Children may complain of soreness after sports or physical education. Limping or favoring one foot is also common, especially after prolonged activity. The heel may feel tender to the touch, and pressure can increase discomfort. These symptoms may come and go but tend to return if the underlying cause is not addressed.

Several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing Sever's disease. Rapid growth during adolescence is a primary factor, as it affects the balance between bones and soft tissues. High impact sports, tight calf muscles, and lack of proper shoe support can all contribute. Children with flat feet or high arches may place uneven stress on the heel, increasing irritation. Understanding these risks can help guide prevention and early care.

Treatment focuses on relieving stress on the heel and promoting healing. Rest, stretching, and wearing supportive shoes are key components of recovery. Heel cushions and orthotic devices can provide additional support and reduce impact. Early management allows children to remain active while minimizing discomfort. If your active child has heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and effective relief and management tips.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

An ingrown toenail can begin as a minor annoyance, but become much more uncomfortable if it continues to worsen. In the earliest phase, the skin along the nail edge may become tender, swollen, and red as the nail presses into nearby tissue. If the irritation continues, the area may become increasingly sore and start to produce drainage, which can signal infection or ongoing inflammation. In more advanced cases, excess tissue may develop around the nail border as the body reacts to the repeated irritation, making the toe appear swollen and overgrown in that area. Because symptoms can progress in clear stages, early evaluation can make treatment simpler and more effective. A podiatrist can assess how far the condition has advanced and recommend appropriate care, which may range from conservative treatment to a minor procedure for stubborn cases. If you have a painful or worsening ingrown toenail, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Westland Foot & Ankle Specialists, P.C.. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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