An Achilles tendon tear happens when the strong band that connects the calf muscles to the heel breaks. This often occurs during sports or sudden movements and may feel like a sharp snap or pop in the back of the ankle. Walking becomes difficult, and pushing off the foot may feel nearly impossible. Most people with this injury begin with non-surgical treatment, such as a boot or cast that holds the foot in place while the tendon heals. However, some notice a firm swelling in the same spot that does not go away over time. This may be a sign of an organized hematoma, which is a collection of old blood trapped under the skin. To understand what is going on, podiatrists often use an MRI scan, which gives a clear view of the tendon and surrounding tissues. If needed, a minimally invasive procedure called arthroscopic debridement to clean the area can be performed. This usually leads to good results. If you notice lingering swelling after an Achilles injury, a visit to a podiatrist is suggested.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM of New York. 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 office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

As people age, changes in the feet, toes, and ankles can make it harder to stay steady, increasing the risk of falling. Balance depends on strong muscles, flexible joints, and healthy nerves that help the brain sense body position. When nerve damage, arthritis, fallen arches, or toe deformities occur, they may interfere with these functions. Loss of sensation in the feet, often linked to diabetic neuropathy, can make it difficult to detect changes in walking surfaces. Stiff joints or painful foot problems may limit the natural movement needed for stability. Even subtle foot issues can affect walking patterns and overall balance. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, nerve function, and joint health to identify causes of instability. Depending on the findings, treatment may include custom orthotics, supportive footwear, or surgery to correct deformities. If you notice a loss of balance or have fallen and injured your foot or ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on effective fall prevention tips. 

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Lesly Honore, MD, DPM from New York. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Swelling in the feet and ankles often occurs due to fluid accumulation in the soft tissues, known as edema. This can occur for many reasons, ranging from prolonged standing or walking to underlying health conditions such as heart, kidney, or liver disease. Injury, such as an ankle sprain or fracture, can also lead to localized swelling, as well  as bruising or pain. Infections like cellulitis or abscesses may cause the skin to appear red, warm, or oozing. Swelling of the feet or ankles may affect one or both sides and can leave indentations when pressed, known as pitting edema. A podiatrist can evaluate the location, severity, and associated symptoms of swelling to help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment. If you notice unexplained swelling of the feet and ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Lesly Honore, MD, DPM of New York. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hempstead, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.