The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It helps lift the heel when a person walks, runs, or jumps. Achilles tendonitis develops when this tendon becomes irritated and inflamed. Pain appears above the back of the heel and can become worse with activity. Signs include swelling, stiffness, and limited ankle motion. The area also can feel tender when touched. Runners and patients face a higher risk because repeated strain can irritate the tendon. An increase in exercise can place stress on it as well.

Several factors can contribute to Achilles tendonitis. Tight calf muscles can pull on the tendon and increase strain near the heel. Shoes that fit poorly or lack proper support can affect how pressure moves through the foot. Wearing high heels can shorten the calf muscles and place added stress on the tendon when other shoes are worn. Achilles tendonitis may be linked to a joint condition that affects other areas of the body. Without treatment, the tendon can weaken and become more likely to tear. Persistent heel pain should therefore receive professional attention before it interferes with daily movement or exercise.

A podiatrist can examine the heel, assess ankle motion, and identify the location of tenderness. The evaluation includes questions about symptoms, activity levels, and recent changes in exercise. The podiatrist may ask the patient to rise onto the balls of the feet to observe heel strength and movement. Imaging can provide detail when the cause or severity is unclear. An ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to reveal inflammation, damage, or a tear. Treatment from a podiatrist can include orthotics, supportive shoe recommendations, or a brace that limits harmful movement. If you have symptoms of Achilles tendonitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. 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 Charleston, WV . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

A heel spur is a bony growth that develops on the underside of the heel bone due to long-term stress and strain. It often forms where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel, creating irritation over time. Although the spur itself may not always cause pain, it is commonly associated with inflammation in the surrounding tissues. Heel spurs are frequently linked to plantar fasciitis, which can worsen discomfort during daily activities. Understanding this condition helps individuals recognize symptoms early and seek appropriate care.

Heel spur pain is often described as a sharp or stabbing sensation in the bottom of the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning. As the day progresses, the pain may become a dull ache that worsens with prolonged standing or walking. Some individuals report tenderness when pressing on the heel or a feeling of tightness along the arch. Swelling and mild inflammation may also be present. These symptoms can interfere with normal movement and reduce overall comfort.

Several risk factors contribute to the development of heel spurs. Repetitive stress from walking, running, or standing for long periods of time can strain the plantar fascia. Poor foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches, may increase tension on the heel. Wearing unsupportive footwear can worsen the condition by failing to absorb shock. Age-related changes in tissue flexibility and a history of foot strain also play a role. These factors can lead to gradual damage that results in heel pain over time.

Managing heel spurs involves reducing stress on the heel and improving foot support. Wearing properly fitted shoes with cushioning and arch support can help relieve pressure. Stretching exercises for the foot and calf may improve flexibility and reduce tension. Early evaluation is important to prevent worsening symptoms. If you have persistent heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat heel spurs.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of growing straight outward. The condition usually affects the big toe and can become increasingly painful as the nail continues to press into the skin. Wearing shoes that are too tight or shoes that lack proper support can increase pressure on the toes and contribute to the problem. Improper nail trimming and toe injuries also can increase the risk. Symptoms include pain, redness, and tenderness along the edge of the nail. As the condition becomes more severe, the skin can become infected and produce drainage. Patients with diabetes or poor circulation should receive prompt evaluation because infections can become more serious when healing is slower.

A podiatrist performs a detailed examination to determine the severity of the ingrown toenail and whether an infection is present. The evaluation includes checking the skin around the nail, the shape of the nail, and the overall health of the foot. The podiatrist also looks for swelling, drainage, or extra tissue that has developed around the edge of the nail because these changes can indicate that the condition has progressed. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the nail grows deeper into the skin or the infection becomes more difficult to treat. A complete evaluation also helps identify factors that increase the chance of the problem returning.

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail and whether the surrounding skin is infected. A podiatrist can safely remove the portion of the nail that is growing into the skin to relieve pressure and reduce pain. Patients with repeated ingrown toenails can benefit from a procedure that removes part of the nail root to help prevent the nail from growing into the skin again. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and confirm that the toe is recovering properly. The goal is to relieve pain, protect the toe from infection, and restore normal foot function. If you have symptoms of ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Carrie Frame, DPM of West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

Orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that improve the way the feet support the body while standing and walking. They help control foot movement, reduce pressure, and improve balance. Unlike simple insoles, orthotics are designed to match a person's foot shape and movement patterns. A podiatrist examines the feet, watches how you walk, and identifies areas of extra stress before recommending treatment. Orthotics can help relieve pain caused by problems like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and arthritis. They also reduce strain on joints by improving foot alignment. Better alignment helps the feet work more efficiently and can make everyday activities more comfortable. Research also shows that properly prescribed orthotics improve function and reduce pain for many patients with foot conditions.

Orthotics come in different designs to meet different needs. Some are custom-made after a detailed assessment, while others are prefabricated and selected for specific foot problems. A podiatrist determines which option provides the best support based on your symptoms, foot structure, and activity level. Custom orthotics provide a more precise fit for complex conditions. Prefabricated devices can also provide meaningful relief for certain patients. Modern materials allow orthotics to remain lightweight, durable, and comfortable while fitting inside many styles of shoes. Proper fit is important because shoes that lack proper support or fit too tightly can reduce the benefits of orthotics.

A podiatrist also checks how orthotics perform after they are prescribed and makes adjustments when necessary to improve comfort and function. Regular follow-up visits help confirm that the devices continue supporting the feet correctly. Orthotics can reduce stress on painful areas, improve stability, and help people stay active with greater confidence. Early evaluation also helps address foot problems before they become more difficult to manage. If you have symptoms of foot pain or a condition that could benefit from orthotics, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine what type of orthotics are right for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact Carrie Frame, DPM from West Virginia Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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