The Achilles tendon is a thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping by transferring force from the leg to the foot. One key mechanical property of the tendon is strength. The Achilles tendon is one of the strongest tendons in the body and can handle high levels of force during daily movement. Another important feature is elasticity, which allows the tendon to stretch slightly and then return to its original shape. This ability helps store and release energy when the foot pushes off the ground. The tendon also has stiffness, which allows it to move force efficiently from the calf muscles to the foot. However, repeated stress or tight muscles can place extra strain on the tendon and lead to injury. If you experience heel or tendon pain, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper 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 Metro Foot & Ankle. 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 Tempe, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Functional ankle instability is a condition where the ankle repeatedly feels weak, unstable, or prone to giving way, often after previous sprains. Ongoing ankle pain can limit how well the joint moves, especially the up and down motion that is needed for walking and balance. When range of motion is reduced, nearby muscles may weaken because they are not used fully or correctly. This loss of strength can make it harder for the ankle to respond quickly during movement. Balance is also affected, since the ankle plays a major role in sensing position and adjusting to uneven surfaces. When pain, stiffness, and weakness combine, the risk of repeat injury increases. Treatment focuses on restoring motion, improving muscle strength, and retraining balance to improve stability. If ankle pain or repeated instability continues, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and targeted care.

Ankle pain can have many different causes and the pain may potentially be serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Metro Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendinitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

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

Daily foot care plays a growing role in comfort and mobility as people get older. Aging skin tends to lose moisture and elasticity, making regular cleansing and gentle moisturizing important to reduce cracking and irritation. Nails often thicken or become brittle, so careful trimming helps prevent pressure and discomfort. Changes in circulation and sensation mean small issues may go unnoticed without routine visual checks. Wearing clean socks and properly fitting shoes each day protects the feet from friction and uneven pressure. Staying active within personal limits supports circulation and joint movement, while rest allows irritated areas to recover. These simple habits help maintain foot health and reduce the risk of complications that can affect walking and balance. Paying attention to the feet as part of everyday self-care supports independence and comfort. If concerns arise despite routine care, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Metro Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

Poor circulation in the feet occurs when blood flow to the lower extremities is reduced, making it harder for oxygen and nutrients to reach the tissues. People may notice coldness, numbness, tingling, cramping, or skin that appears pale or discolored. Common causes include diabetes, peripheral artery disease, smoking, high blood pressure, and prolonged sitting or standing. Aging can also affect circulation, especially when combined with reduced activity levels or underlying medical conditions. Improving circulation often involves consistent movement throughout the day. Walking, ankle rotations, and gentle stretching help activate the muscles that support blood flow. Elevating the feet when resting, maintaining healthy hydration, and wearing shoes that do not restrict the forefoot or ankle can also be beneficial. Addressing chronic conditions and avoiding tobacco play an important role in long-term improvement. If foot circulation problems persist, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Metro Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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