December 2024

A ruptured Achilles tendon is a significant injury where the thick tendon connecting the calf muscles to the heel tears, often during sudden, forceful movements. This injury is most common in men between 30 and 40 years of age, and frequently occurs during sports that involve explosive movements or quick direction changes, such as tennis, football, pickleball, and basketball. Patients often describe hearing a snapping or popping sound at the time of injury, followed by sharp pain and swelling at the back of the ankle. Walking becomes difficult, and standing on tiptoe is typically impossible. Early diagnosis is essential to determine the extent of the injury and the best course of treatment. A podiatrist can provide a thorough assessment and recommend appropriate care, which may include immobilization or supportive devices like walking boots. Addressing the injury promptly can improve recovery outcomes and help prevent further complications in the foot or ankle. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Gary Cesar of Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. 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 Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Aging brings significant changes to the feet, which can affect mobility and overall comfort. Over time, ligaments and tendons lose elasticity, causing the arches to flatten and the feet to lengthen. This often leads to an increase in shoe size and can make previously comfortable footwear unsuitable. Additionally, bunions, a bony bump on the side of the big toe, and hammertoe, where toes curl abnormally, are common issues related to aging feet. Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, can cause joint stiffness and pain, inhibiting daily activities. Conditions such as gout, which causes intense swelling and discomfort at the big toe joint, may also develop. Chronic conditions like diabetes often result in diabetic neuropathy, where reduced sensation in the feet increases the risk of unnoticed injuries and infections. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot changes and provide custom orthotics for added support. Additionally, this type of doctor can address bunions or hammertoes through corrective procedures, and manage arthritis or diabetic-related complications to prevent further damage. If you are a senior experiencing foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Cricket might seem like a game with minimal risk of injuries, but it can take a toll on players’ bodies, especially their feet. Bowlers and batters experience different stresses based on their roles and techniques. Pace bowlers, known for their high-speed deliveries, are more likely to have pronounced foot posture, where the foot rolls inward on impact. This results from the intense forces generated during their run-up and landing. Spin bowlers, who rely on slower, spinning deliveries, more often display supinated foot posture, where the foot rolls outward. This is due to the twisting and pivoting movements needed to spin the ball effectively. Batters, who focus on quick, agile footwork to face the ball, may develop imbalances in foot posture due to repeated pressure on the front of the foot and uneven weight distribution. If you play cricket and foot pain or injuries arise, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and care.

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 Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. 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 offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A bunion is a deformity that occurs when the big toe and its connecting joint shift out of alignment, often resulting in a bony bump at the base of the toe. A bunion, also referred to as hallux valgus, can cause pain, redness, and swelling in the big toe joint, particularly when wearing tight or narrow shoes. Over time, the joint may become increasingly enlarged, and complications like bursitis, limited motion, or osteoarthritis can develop. Diagnosis is typically made through a podiatrist's examination and may include imaging scans to assess the extent of joint damage. Treatment of bunions often focuses on relieving pressure and discomfort through orthotic devices, wider footwear, or in severe cases, surgery to correct the misalignment. A podiatrist can provide personalized care to address symptoms, improve mobility, and prevent further progression of your bunion. If you have a painful bunion, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Dr. Gary Cesar of Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar warts are small, rough growths that develop on the soles of the feet, often causing discomfort or pain when walking. They are caused by the human papillomavirus, or HPV, which enters the skin through tiny cuts or abrasions. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments, making public areas like swimming pools, showers, and gym floors common places for transmission. Plantar warts typically appear as firm, raised bumps with a rough texture and may have small black dots in the center, which are blood vessels. The pressure from walking or standing often causes them to grow inward, making them more painful. Although plantar warts are generally not dangerous, they can be extremely painful. If you have developed a plantar wart, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

Plantar warts can be very uncomfortable. If you need your feet checked, contact Dr. Gary Cesar from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

About Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are the result of HPV, or human papillomavirus, getting into open wounds on the feet. They are mostly found on the heels or balls of the feet.

While plantar warts are generally harmless, those experiencing excessive pain or those suffering from diabetes or a compromised immune system require immediate medical care. Plantar warts are easily diagnosed, usually through scraping off a bit of rough skin or by getting a biopsy.

Symptoms

• Lesions on the bottom of your feet, usually rough and grainy
• Hard or thick callused spots
• Wart seeds, which are small clotted blood vessels that look like little black spots
• Pain, discomfort, or tenderness of your feet when walking or standing

Treatment

• Freezing
• Electric tool removal
• Laser Treatment
• Topical Creams (prescription only)
• Over-the-counter medications

To help prevent developing plantar warts, avoid walking barefoot over abrasive surfaces that can cause cuts or wounds for HPV to get into. Avoiding direct contact with other warts, as well as not picking or rubbing existing warts, can help prevent the further spread of plantar warts. However, if you think you have developed plantar warts, speak to your podiatrist. He or she can diagnose the warts on your feet and recommend the appropriate treatment options.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.