Achilles tendon pain can result from conditions like tendonitis, tendinosis, or a partial or complete tendon rupture. The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel and is vital for walking, running, and jumping. Tendonitis is an acute inflammation, often triggered by sudden activity or repetitive strain, and may cause swelling, warmth, and pain. Tendinosis is a chronic condition caused by long-term overuse, which leads to gradual tendon degeneration. Symptoms include stiffness, aching, and pain that worsens with activity but eases with rest. The tendon may feel thickened, tender, or produce a creaking sensation. A rupture can occur suddenly, often during sports, and may feel like a sharp pain or a kick to the back of the leg. It often causes difficulty walking and may result in a visible gap in the tendon. Diagnosis typically involves ultrasound or MRI imaging. Treatment includes rest, orthotics, targeted exercises, or surgery, in severe cases. If you are experiencing heel or ankle pain, especially during or after physical activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Chuc Dang, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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

Hammertoes often begin when there is an imbalance between the muscles and tendons that control toe movement. Over time, this imbalance causes the toe to bend downward at the middle joint, creating a fixed or flexible deformity. Wearing poorly fitting shoes can make the problem worse, especially styles that squeeze the toes or force them into an unnatural position. High arches, flat feet, and certain nerve or joint conditions can also contribute by changing the way pressure is distributed across the foot. As the toe becomes more rigid, it may rub against shoes, leading to corns, calluses, and pain. Early treatment can help prevent progression and may reduce the need for surgery. If you have a toe that is beginning to curl or cause discomfort, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Chuc Dang, DPM of California . Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Selecting appropriate footwear for babies and children is important for healthy foot development and safe exploration. For babies and new walkers, barefoot time indoors encourages natural movement and muscle growth. When shoes are needed, they should be lightweight, flexible, and allow the feet to move freely. As children begin walking independently outdoors, shoes with non-slip soles and secure fastenings offer protection and stability. It is important to ensure a proper fit to avoid restricting growth or causing discomfort. For activities like climbing and hiking, sturdy shoes with good grip and ankle support help prevent injuries and enhance confidence on uneven terrain. If your child has injured his foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and provide further guidance on appropriate shoes.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Chuc Dang, DPM of California . Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

Ankle taping is a common practice among gymnasts, serving multiple important purposes during training and competition. One of the main reasons for ankle taping is injury prevention, as the ankles are under constant stress from repetitive impact and dynamic movements. Ankle sprains are common among gymnasts, often taking weeks to recover. Taping helps reduce the risk of sprains and strains by limiting excessive motion. It also enhances joint awareness, allowing athletes to better sense their body position and make quicker adjustments. During powerful landings, taping provides added stability to support the ankle joint and absorb shock more effectively. This type of protection makes taping a valuable tool in the sport. However, injuries still happen, and if  you have endured an ankle or foot injury while performing gymnastics, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, consult with Chuc Dang, DPM from California . Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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