Foot injuries from rock climbing are more common than many people think, especially during falls or from wearing tight climbing shoes. Falls can lead to bruises, sprains, or broken bones in the heel or ankle, which may require surgery to heal properly. However, repeated impact and pressure from tight shoes can also cause long-term problems. These include pain in the toes, thickened skin, and blood under the toenails. Many climbers wear shoes that are too small in order to get a better grip, but this can change how the foot moves and put too much pressure on certain areas. Over time, this can lead to chronic foot pain and deformities that may limit movement or cause discomfort even when not climbing. Changes in toe shape, such as bunions, or stiffness in the big toe joint may also develop. A podiatrist can diagnose climbing-related foot and ankle injuries, help manage pain, and recommend the best medical treatment, which may include surgery if needed. If you have injured your foot while rock climbing, whether indoors or outside, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Pennsylvania. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain in children is a common complaint that can stem from several causes, often related to growth and physical activity. Sever's disease is one of the most frequent sources, involving inflammation of the growth plate in the heel due to repetitive stress or impact during sports. Plantar fasciitis can also develop when the thick tissue that supports the arch becomes irritated, causing discomfort in the heel, especially after rest. Achilles tendinitis results from overuse of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel, leading to pain and stiffness. In more serious cases, a fracture may be the cause, often from a fall or direct impact. If your child has heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

An Achilles tendon tear is a painful injury that often occurs during activities that involve sudden starts, stops, or pivots, especially in sports or while running. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is essential for walking, running, and rising onto the toes. A torn Achilles tendon may happen suddenly, often with a popping sound, followed by sharp pain at the back of the ankle. Patients may find it difficult to push off the foot or stand on their toes. In many cases, the foot may exhibit abnormal movement, including excessive pronation or supination, which can place strain on the tendon. A podiatrist can examine your ankle and foot alignment, assess range of motion, and determine the extent of the tear using diagnostic tests. If the tendon is completely torn, surgery may be required to restore function. A podiatrist can also help guide you through non-surgical recovery methods, including immobilization, and provide support for proper foot biomechanics. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an immediate 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 one of our podiatrists of Pennsylvania. Our doctors 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 one of our offices located in Plymouth Meeting and Ambler, PA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.