An Achilles tendon rupture is a serious injury where the strong band connecting the calf muscle to the heel tears completely or partially. It often happens during sudden movements such as jumping, sprinting, or quickly changing direction. Many people describe a sharp pain or a popping sensation in the back of the ankle, followed by difficulty walking or pushing off the foot. Causes may include overuse, tight calf muscles, or weakened tendon tissue over time. The injury can appear without warning, even in people who are active but not conditioned properly. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis through examination and imaging, then guide treatment which may include bracing, immobilization, or surgical repair to restore strength and function. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. 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 Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term inflammatory condition that can affect the joints in the feet and ankles. It is related to psoriasis, a skin condition, and occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. In the feet, it can cause noticeable swelling in the toes and ankles along with stiffness and pain. Many people also experience discomfort in the bottom of the feet, especially when walking or standing for long periods. Symptoms may come and go but often become more persistent, if not treated. The condition can lead to joint damage and changes in foot structure. A podiatrist can evaluate joint health, reduce inflammation through treatment plans, and help preserve comfort and mobility. If you have consistent swelling or foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose the problem and offer effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM from Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a term that is commonly used to describe joint pain.  The condition itself can occur to anyone of any age, race, or gender, and there are over 100 types of it.  Nevertheless, arthritis is more commonly found in women compared to men, and it is also more prevalent in those who are overweight. The causes of arthritis vary depending on which type of arthritis you have. Osteoarthritis for example, is often caused by injury, while rheumatoid arthritis is caused by a misdirected immune system.

Symptoms

• Swelling
• Pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased Range of Motion

Arthritic symptoms range in severity, and they may come and go. Some symptoms stay the same for several years but could potentially get worse with time. Severe cases of arthritis can prevent its sufferers from performing daily activities and make walking difficult.

Risk Factors

• Occupation – Occupations requiring repetitive knee movements have been linked to osteoarthritis
• Obesity – Excess weight can contribute to osteoarthritis development
• Infection – Microbial agents can infect the joints and trigger arthritis
• Joint Injuries – Damage to joints may lead to osteoarthritis
• Age – Risk increases with age
• Gender –Most types are more common in women
• Genetics – Arthritis can be hereditary

If you suspect your arthritis is affecting your feet, it is crucial that you see a podiatrist immediately. Your doctor will be able to address your specific case and help you decide which treatment method is best for you.

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

People may assume that any soreness along the edge of a toenail is caused by an ingrown nail, but overgrown skin around the nail can create similar discomfort. An ingrown toenail develops when the nail edge presses into the surrounding skin, often causing redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes drainage or infection. Overgrown toe skin, however, may form from pressure, friction, or irritation that causes thickened tissue to build beside the nail. While both conditions can look alike, treatment is often different. A podiatrist can examine the toe closely to determine whether the nail itself is the problem, or if excess skin is causing the pain. Treatment may include trimming the nail properly, removing irritated tissue, reducing inflammation, or correcting recurring nail growth issues. Proper diagnosis can prevent ongoing discomfort and infection. If you have persistent toe pain, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate care.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor 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 offices located in Lakeport and Ukiah, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sore ankles after skiing are common because the ankles play an important role in balancing the body and guiding movement on the slopes. When ankle position is off, extra strain can build in the joints and surrounding tissues. Poorly fitted boots can add pressure and limit natural motion, increasing discomfort. Tendon irritation may also develop with repeated stress. Risk factors include fatigue, weak supporting muscles, and improper technique. Symptoms include soreness, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. A podiatrist can assess alignment, recommend proper support, and provide treatment to relieve pain and prevent further injury. If your ankles are sore from skiing, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer relief and treatment solutions, enabling you to return to this popular sport. 

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Matthew McQuaid, DPM of Lake Mendocino Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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