Achilles tendon injuries are common among runners and active individuals who place repeated stress on the lower leg. The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, allowing for walking, running, and jumping. Injury occurs when this tendon becomes irritated, inflamed, or partially torn due to overuse or excessive strain. Many runners notice pain in the Achilles tendon during or after activity, which is often an early sign of tendon stress that should not be ignored.

Symptoms of Achilles tendon injuries include pain and stiffness along the back of the ankle, especially in the morning or after exercise. Swelling, tenderness, and a limited range of motion may also develop. Some individuals experience a burning or aching sensation that worsens with continued activity. Risk factors include intense training schedules, inadequate warm-up routines, and poor flexibility in the calf muscles. Runners who suddenly increase distance or speed may also place excessive strain on the tendon, increasing the likelihood of injury.

Pain in the Achilles tendon while running is often caused by repetitive impact and insufficient recovery time. When the tendon does not have enough time to repair between training sessions, small micro-injuries can accumulate and lead to inflammation. Unsuitable running shoes can also contribute by failing to provide proper cushioning and support, which increases stress on the tendon. Running on hard or uneven surfaces may further aggravate the condition and disrupt normal foot mechanics.

Preventing Achilles tendon injuries requires a balanced approach to training and proper footwear selection. Gradually increasing activity levels, allowing adequate recovery between sessions, and wearing supportive running shoes can reduce strain on the tendon. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also improve flexibility and resilience. Early attention to symptoms can help prevent more serious injury and support long-term performance. If you have had an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you consult 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.

A broken toe can cause enough pain to make walking and standing difficult. Breaks can happen after a hard stub, fall, or heavy object lands on the foot. Some fractures develop from repeated stress on the bone instead of one sudden injury. Pain and difficulty walking are key symptoms. A traumatic break can also cause throbbing, swelling, and bruising. Some patients hear a pop or crack when the injury occurs. However, being able to walk does not mean the toe is not broken.

Toe fractures range from small stress fractures to more serious breaks. A stress fracture is a tiny crack caused by repeated pressure on the bone. It can cause soreness after walking or running and tenderness when the area is touched. A displaced fracture occurs when the broken bone moves out of its normal position. The toe can look crooked, and severe injuries can break the skin. Broken toes and sprained toes can feel similar, so an accurate diagnosis matters. Most broken toes take about six to eight weeks to heal, although recovery varies by injury.

A podiatrist can examine an injured toe and determine whether symptoms point to a fracture. The evaluation can assess swelling, tenderness, and toe alignment. An X-ray can help confirm the break and show whether the bone has moved. Treatment depends on which toe is injured and how severe the fracture is. Options can include buddy taping, a rigid-sole shoe, or a walking boot. More serious fractures can require the bone to be repositioned or surgery to restore alignment. Proper treatment can lower the risk of lasting pain, reduced movement, or problems while walking. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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.

Toe injuries from tennis are often the result of repetitive stress and sudden movements that place strain on the front of the foot. The definition of tennis toe involves damage to the toenail or surrounding tissue from repeated impact inside the shoe. Turf toe, on the other hand, is a joint injury that occurs when the big toe bends upward too forcefully. Both conditions are common in tennis due to the demands of quick footwork and constant movement across the court.

Common symptoms of tennis toe include pain beneath the nail, discoloration, and sensitivity when pressure is applied. Turf toe symptoms include swelling, stiffness, and pain near the base of the big toe. Players may notice difficulty pushing off or reduced flexibility in the toe joint. These symptoms can worsen with continued activity and may limit performance if not addressed. Early recognition of these signs is important for effective management.

Risk factors include frequent participation in tennis, wearing shoes that are too tight or loose, and playing on hard surfaces. Improper footwear can increase friction and pressure on the toes, leading to injury. Turf toe is more likely to occur when the toe is forced into an extended position during sudden stops or directional changes. Weak foot support and lack of conditioning may also contribute to increased injury risk.

Reducing the risk of toe injuries requires wearing proper footwear, good foot hygiene, and attention to technique. Shoes should provide a secure fit and adequate cushioning to absorb impact. Regular rest and conditioning can help maintain strength and flexibility. Addressing pain early can prevent more serious complications. If you have toe pain from tennis activities, it is suggested that you seek evaluation from a podiatrist for effective relief, management and prevention techniques.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Athlete’s foot is a fungal skin infection that affects the feet, especially between the toes. Fungi thrive in warm and damp places, making locker rooms, public showers, and sweaty shoes ideal environments. The infection spreads through direct contact or contaminated surfaces. It can also develop after wearing shoes for long periods without allowing the feet to stay dry. Early evaluation helps prevent the infection from spreading to other areas of the foot or toenails.

Symptoms include itching, peeling, and flaky skin. Some people develop blisters, soreness, or an unpleasant odor. Others notice dry, scaly skin that spreads across the sole or around the edges of the foot. Scratching the affected skin can increase irritation and allow the infection to spread more easily. A careful examination helps confirm the diagnosis and identify whether the infection has reached the toenails.

Podiatrists evaluate the affected skin, toenails, and foot structure to determine the best treatment. They can recommend prescription antifungal medication when necessary and monitor healing to make sure the infection is improving. They also check for skin damage and signs that the infection has spread beyond the original area. Prompt treatment helps reduce discomfort, protect healthy skin, and lower the risk of repeated infections. Healthy feet support comfort while walking and everyday activities. Professional care also helps identify conditions that can look similar to athlete’s foot, including eczema or psoriasis, so patients receive the correct diagnosis. Regular follow-up visits allow the podiatrist to monitor progress, answer questions, and help protect the skin from future problems. This ongoing attention supports healthier feet and reduces the chance of recurring infections affecting daily comfort and mobility. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Braden Jenkins, DPM from The Ridge Foot & Ankle Center.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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 and ankle needs.