A sudden pop behind the ankle, followed by the feeling of being kicked in the leg, sometimes signals an Achilles tendon rupture. This injury occurs when the strong band connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone tears partly or completely. The Achilles tendon helps lift the heel and push the body forward with each step. A rupture disrupts that movement, making ordinary activities difficult. Although many injuries happen during sports, a tear also occurs when the ankle bends upward unexpectedly. Prompt evaluation helps protect the tendon and allows treatment to begin before healing becomes more complicated.

Achilles tendon ruptures frequently happen during a forceful push-off, a jump, or a sudden change in direction. Sports like basketball and tennis place considerable demands on this tendon, and players often sustain such injuries. Returning to intense activity after a long break also increases strain. Tendon damage that develops with aging raises the risk of injury, even without previous pain. Symptoms include pain behind the ankle, swelling, and difficulty pushing off the foot. Bruising sometimes appears near the heel. Some people still manage to walk after a rupture, so the ability to take steps does not rule out a serious tear. Pain sometimes eases despite significant tendon damage.

A podiatrist asks how the injury happened and examines the foot and lower leg. The examination includes checking for tenderness and feeling for a gap along the tendon. The podiatrist also assesses ankle strength and movement. During a calf-squeeze test, the doctor gently squeezes the calf while watching for movement of the foot. Little or no response suggests a complete rupture. Ultrasound helps show the location and size of a tear. An MRI scan provides detailed images when the diagnosis remains unclear or treatment planning requires more information. These findings help distinguish a rupture from other causes of ankle pain.

Treatment depends on the severity of the tear, the patient's health, and activity goals. A podiatrist discusses non-surgical care and surgery, explaining the benefits and risks of each approach. Non-surgical treatment uses a cast or specialized boot to hold the foot in a position that brings the torn tendon ends closer together. Surgery repairs the tendon by joining the torn ends. Follow-up appointments allow the podiatrist to monitor healing and adjust protection as recovery progresses. The foot doctor also guides the return to weight-bearing and regular activities. If you have symptoms of a ruptured Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you schedule an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & 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 office located in Idaho Falls, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Blisters on the feet develop when fluid collects beneath the outer layer of skin, forming a raised pocket that protects the tissue underneath. One of the most frequent causes is friction, which occurs when the skin repeatedly rubs against another surface. Tight shoes or footwear that does not fit properly may create enough pressure to cause a blister. These fluid-filled areas often appear on the heels, toes, or soles of the feet. Blisters on the feet may also develop from burns, exposure to extreme cold, or contact with irritating substances. Although many blisters heal without complications, larger or painful blisters may interfere with walking and everyday activities.

Foot blisters vary in size and appearance depending on their cause. Most contain clear fluid, although some may contain blood or pus. The surrounding skin may become tender, red, or irritated. Friction blisters often develop after repeated rubbing against the same area, particularly during activities involving extended walking or standing. When a blister breaks open, the exposed skin becomes more vulnerable to infection. Warning signs include increasing pain, swelling, and redness around the affected area. Pus draining from the blister may also indicate an infection. While minor blisters generally heal within one to two weeks, persistent irritation or infection may delay recovery and require professional attention.

A podiatrist examines foot blisters to determine their cause and assess the condition of the surrounding skin. Treatment focuses on protecting the affected area, relieving discomfort, and reducing the risk of infection. In certain cases, a podiatrist may professionally drain a large or painful blister using sterile equipment. Protective dressings may also be recommended to support healing and prevent additional irritation. Addressing repeated friction is important for individuals who frequently develop blisters. Popping a blister yourself is not recommended as it may lead to infection. If you are experiencing painful foot blisters or signs of infection, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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

Foot surgery may be recommended when pain, injury, or a structural problem makes everyday movement difficult. Surgery is usually considered after other treatments have not provided enough relief, or when a condition needs correction to protect long-term foot function. Common reasons include severe arthritis, fractures, and chronic wounds. Symptoms that may point toward surgery include ongoing pain, swelling, or stiffness. Trouble walking may also develop. Risk factors can include repeated stress, previous injury, or arthritis. Diabetes and structural problems may also increase risk.

The type of foot surgery depends on the condition and the goal of treatment. Fusion, also called arthrodesis, joins two bones at a joint so they heal as one stable bone. It may be used for painful arthritis or severe joint damage. Debridement removes damaged, infected, or unhealthy tissue from a wound or affected area. This can help clear infection and support healthy tissue growth. An osteotomy involves carefully cutting and repositioning a bone to improve alignment.

Before surgery, a podiatrist evaluates your symptoms, medical history, and imaging results. The podiatrist may recommend X-rays or other imaging tests to understand the problem clearly. Your podiatrist may also discuss activity goals, footwear needs, and realistic expectations before recommending the appropriate procedure. During treatment, the surgical approach is planned around the affected bone, joint, or soft tissue. After surgery, healing may involve protecting the foot, managing swelling, and following weight-bearing instructions. Follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to check healing and address concerns early.

Foot surgery can sound intimidating, but understanding the reason for surgery and the treatment plan can make the process easier. If you have a foot condition that may require surgery,  it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this is the correct choice for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM of The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Diabetic limb salvage is an approach used to protect a foot or limb when diabetes has caused a wound, infection, or tissue damage. The goal is to save as much tissue as possible and prevent loss of limb when appropriate. Diabetes can reduce sensation and slow healing, so small problems may become severe before they are noticed. Warning signs can include an open sore, redness, or increasing pain.

Several factors can increase the need for diabetic limb salvage. High blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels. Reduced sensation can make it difficult to feel an injury. Poor circulation may limit oxygen and nutrients needed for healing. Infection can also spread into deeper tissues or bone. A history of foot ulcers, previous limb loss, kidney disease, or smoking may increase risk. Prompt evaluation is important when a wound does not heal normally.

Diabetic limb salvage may involve several steps based on the person’s condition. A podiatrist may examine the wound, check circulation, and order imaging tests. Treatment may include wound cleaning, removal of damaged tissue, and protective dressings. Some patients may need vascular care or surgery to improve blood flow or remove infected tissue while preserving healthy structures. This approach can be life-changing because saving a limb may support mobility, independence, and activities.

Healing requires careful follow-up and foot protection. A podiatrist may monitor the wound regularly and adjust treatment based on improvement. Patients may also receive guidance about blood sugar control, footwear, and daily foot checks. Early care can make an important difference when diabetes threatens the health of a foot or limb. If you have severe foot complications from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss the pros and cons of diabetic limb salvage with you. 

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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