Achilles tendinopathy is a common cause of pain near the back of the ankle and heel. The Achilles tendon is a strong band of tissue connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role in walking, running, and pushing the foot off the ground. Achilles tendinopathy develops when the tendon becomes irritated or changes from repeated stress. Pain may occur where the tendon attaches to the heel or farther up the tendon. Common symptoms include aching, stiffness, and tenderness. The tendon may also become swollen or thickened as the condition progresses.

Achilles tendon pain often develops gradually rather than after a single injury. Repeated strain from running, jumping, or other demanding activities can place added stress on the tendon. Limited ankle movement and certain foot mechanics may also contribute. Pain may become more noticeable during activity or when pressure is placed on the affected area. As symptoms worsen, walking and other movements may become uncomfortable. Achilles tendinopathy differs from an Achilles tendon rupture, which involves a partial or complete tear. Sudden severe pain, weakness, or difficulty walking should receive prompt professional evaluation to determine whether a serious tendon injury has occurred.

A podiatrist can evaluate Achilles tendon pain and determine which factors may be contributing to the condition. An examination may include checking the tendon for tenderness or swelling and assessing foot and ankle movement. Imaging may be recommended when more information is needed. Treatment depends on the location and severity of the Achilles tendon problem. A podiatrist can develop an individualized treatment plan focused on reducing tendon stress, improving foot and ankle function, and supporting recovery. Professional care can also help address movement problems that may contribute to continued discomfort. If persistent Achilles pain, stiffness, or swelling is affecting your ability to walk comfortably, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Stefanie M. Thomas, DPM of Premier Foot Clinic. 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 Clinton, MS. Servicing the Clinton and Jackson, MS area. . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Foot problems in older adults often develop after years of daily use, pressure, and natural changes in the body. A lifetime of walking, running, and standing can place repeated stress on the feet, leading to structural changes and discomfort. Common conditions include corns, toenail disorders, bunions, and hammertoe. These issues can affect mobility, balance, and overall quality of life if they are not properly managed. Understanding these conditions can help older adults take steps to maintain foot health and independence.

Symptoms of foot problems in seniors can vary depending on the condition. Corns often appear as thickened areas of skin that cause pain when pressure is applied. Toenail disorders may include thickened, discolored, or brittle nails that are difficult to trim. Bunions develop as a bony bump at the base of the big toe, often leading to swelling, redness, and discomfort while wearing shoes. Hammertoe causes the toes to bend abnormally, which may result in pain, stiffness, and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. These symptoms can make walking and standing more challenging over time.

The causes of these conditions are often linked to long-term wear and tear on the feet. Years of repetitive movement can weaken muscles and ligaments, leading to changes in foot structure. As the body ages, the natural cushioning in the feet may thin, increasing pressure on certain areas and leading to pain and irritation.

Risk factors for foot problems in older adults include reduced circulation, chronic health conditions, and decreased mobility. Individuals with arthritis, diabetes, or poor balance may be more likely to develop foot issues. Regular foot care, wearing supportive footwear, and early attention to symptoms can help prevent complications. A podiatrist can provide personalized care and treatment to improve comfort and function. If you are elderly and have painful foot conditions, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you need your feet checked, contact Stefanie M. Thomas, DPM of Premier Foot Clinic. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs and provide you with quality treatment.

Geriatrics and Podiatry
When people age, some common issues that may occur are bone density loss, dry skin, poor circulation, and rough brittle nails. These issues may also affect your foot health if the necessary steps are not taken to alleviate the problems.

It is important to take care of your feet because feet that are injured or diseased can affect your overall health. Having painful feet hinders your ability to do daily activities or may decrease your willingness to do the things that you need to do.

Visiting Your Geriatrician
As we age, health problems become more likely, so it is essential to visit your doctor for check-ups to ensure that you are doing the best you can to take care of your health. It is recommended to check your feet frequently for any possible cuts, bruises, swelling, corns or any other irregularities. 

Taking Care of Elderly Feet
Cracked or dry feet can be treated by applying moisturizer often. It is also important not to wear old socks because the older the sock is, the higher the possibility there will be that there is bacteria there. Wear fresh socks and make sure they fit properly.

Proper foot health means that you can have a more active lifestyle and you will not be bogged down by pain. Foot health also leads to good circulation, which is paramount for overall health.

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

Gout develops when uric acid forms sharp crystals in a joint. Uric acid is a waste product that leaves the body through the kidneys. When too much remains in the blood, crystals can collect and trigger inflammation. An attack typically begins in the big-toe joint, though it can also affect the ankle. Symptoms include intense pain, swelling, and redness. The joint can also feel warm and extremely tender. Even light pressure from a sock or bedsheet can become difficult to tolerate. Repeated attacks can damage nearby bone and threaten the long-term health of the joint.

Gout research has found bone erosions in nearly half of the patients studied. These findings show why recurring attacks deserve careful medical attention. Bone erosions are damaged areas along the surface of a bone near a joint. The damage was more likely to occur among older patients and those who had lived with gout longer. It was also linked to frequent flare-ups. High blood pressure, high blood sugar, and kidney disease were associated with greater risk. Tophi, which are firm deposits of uric acid crystals around joints, were also connected with bone deterioration. 

A podiatrist can examine the painful joint and review the pattern of gout attacks. The evaluation includes checking swelling, skin color, and joint movement. Imaging can reveal crystal deposits or bone damage, while laboratory testing can help support the diagnosis. The podiatrist can develop a treatment plan and coordinate care with the patient’s primary doctor or another specialist. Professional foot care can protect irritated skin and reduce pressure around a tender joint. A podiatrist can also recommend fitted shoes or custom orthotics that improve comfort and support. Regular evaluations help track changes in the joint and identify complications before more damage occurs. Early diagnosis and steady medical management can reduce future attacks and protect joint health. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact Stefanie M. Thomas, DPM from Premier Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Bunions and buninettes develop when the bones in the toe area gradually shift out of alignment. A bunion, also called hallux valgus, forms when the big toe moves toward the smaller toes as the joint at the base of the big toe becomes enlarged and prominent. A buninette, also known as a tailor’s bunion, develops on the outside of the foot near the base of the little toe. Both conditions can change foot structure and may become painful without proper care.

Symptoms of bunions and buninettes often include a visible bump, swelling, redness, and tenderness around the affected joint. People may experience discomfort while walking or wearing shoes, especially narrow footwear that places pressure on the affected area. Other symptoms can include stiffness, difficulty moving the toe, and irritation caused by friction against shoes. In advanced cases, these deformities may contribute to changes in walking patterns and increased stress on other areas of the foot.

Several risk factors can contribute to the development of bunions and buninettes. Genetics often play a role because inherited foot structure, such as flat feet or abnormal joint alignment, can increase the likelihood of developing these conditions. Wearing tight, narrow, or poorly fitting shoes may place additional pressure on the toes and worsen symptoms. Other risk factors include arthritis, muscle imbalance, and activities that place repeated stress on the feet.

The causes of bunions and buninettes are often related to gradual changes in foot mechanics and alignment. Abnormal movement while walking can place uneven pressure on the toe joints, leading to progressive changes over time. Early evaluation and proper treatment can help reduce discomfort and support better foot function. Wearing supportive footwear, activity adjustments, and custom orthotics may help manage symptoms and improve comfort. If you have developed a bunion or bunionette, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Stefanie M. Thomas, DPM of Premier Foot Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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