February 2022

Many active people develop what is known as Achilles tendonitis, which occurs when the tendon becomes inflamed over a period of days, rather than suddenly. It is usually the result of repetitive use and the tightening of the calf muscles. A regular routine of stretching can help to strengthen the tendon and lengthen the muscles. Before starting any exercises, it may be wise to consult with a podiatrist who can examine the painful area and diagnose your injury properly. The calf is made up of two muscles, the gastrocnemius and the soleus, that the Achilles tendon connects to your heel. Both can be stretched using the same exercise in slightly different ways. Stand with both hands pressed against a wall, touch the toes of one foot to the wall with the knee bent. Place the leg to be stretched straight back, with the heel up and the leg straight. Be sure that the heel lines up with the foot. Slowly lower the heel. This should stretch the gastrocnemius (larger) calf muscle. Hold the stretch for a few seconds and repeat several times. To stretch the soleus muscle, do the same exercise with both legs bent. This releases the gastrocnemius and allows the smaller muscle to be stretched. If you are afflicted with an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact William Urton, DPM of British Columbia. 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 Langley, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Sprained ankles are a common injury, particularly among athletes. They cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, a limited range of motion, and difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected ankle. Ankle sprains occur when one or more of the ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn. There are two main types of ankle sprains – high ankle sprains and lateral ankle sprains. While their symptoms are similar, treatments can vary. Because of this, getting a proper diagnosis is very important. A podiatrist can diagnose the type of ankle sprain that you have by completing a thorough physical examination of the ankle. Imaging tests may also be used. If you suspect that you may have sprained your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact William Urton, DPM from British Columbia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

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

Heel fissures are cracks in the skin on your heels. For many, these cracks are simply a cosmetic concern, but for some people, the skin can become extremely dry and crack deeply. This can cause discomfort or pain, especially when you stand or walk., and the fissures may even bleed. Cracked heels have many potential causes. These include environmental or lifestyle factors, like living in a dry climate, taking excessively hot showers, or wearing open-back shoes, and underlying medical problems, such as diabetes, eczema, or a fungal infection. If you have dry, cracked heels that are bothering you, please seek the care of a podiatrist. 

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact William Urton, DPM from British Columbia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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

Tinea Pedis,  more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a fungal infection that affects the feet and toes. The fungi that cause athlete’s foot thrive in warm and moist environments. The condition is very contagious and often spreads in areas such as communal locker rooms, pools, showers, and even sweaty footwear. Common signs of athlete’s foot include scaling, redness, itchiness, and in severe cases, fissuring (or deep cracking) of the skin. Since athlete’s foot can spread easily, patients who believe they have this condition would be wise to consult with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The infection will likely need to be treated with antifungal medications, and measures may need to be implemented to keep the feet clean and dry. 

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 William Urton, DPM from British Columbia.  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 Langley, BC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.