Items filtered by date: April 2025

Hiking with ankle pain requires extra care and thoughtful planning to prevent further injury and enjoy the experience. Choosing smaller, well-maintained trails can help reduce stress on the ankle by providing even surfaces and shorter distances to manage. It is important to wear supportive hiking shoes or boots that stabilize the ankle and cushion each step. Carrying light loads can make a big difference, as heavy backpacks place added pressure on the joints and increase fatigue. Maintaining a healthy weight also supports the ankles by easing the strain placed on them during movement. Taking breaks when needed and using trekking poles for balance can enhance comfort and reduce the risk of aggravating the pain. If you enjoy hiking and have developed ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective management tips, providing a more enjoyable hiking experience.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with George Tellam, DPM from Ankle & Foot Associates. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Orange Park and Jacksonville Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. This tissue, called the plantar fascia, supports the arch and absorbs shock during movement. When it becomes irritated or strained, sharp heel pain can develop, especially during the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. This discomfort can make walking difficult and alter the natural gait, leading to further strain on the feet and legs. Factors that can worsen plantar fasciitis include standing for extended periods, wearing shoes with inadequate support, having flat feet or high arches, and engaging in repetitive activities. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you promptly contact a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact George Tellam, DPM from Ankle & Foot Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Orange Park and Jacksonville Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a condition where one or more of the smaller toes bends at the middle joint, causing a curled appearance that resembles a hammer. This condition often develops due to an imbalance in the tendons controlling toe movement. It may result from genetics, injury, or pressure from other foot issues such as bunions. The second toe is most commonly affected. The pain can be quite uncomfortable, especially when wearing tight shoes. In addition to pain, you may notice corns on the top of the toe and calluses on the ball of the foot due to extra pressure during walking. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, often with an X-ray to assess its severity. Treatment may involve taping or splinting the toe to reduce strain, along with custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and redistribute pressure. In more severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend surgery for relief and to restore proper foot function. If you have a painful hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact George Tellam, DPM of Ankle & Foot Associates. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Orange Park and Jacksonville Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Running places significant stress on the feet and toes, making them prone to injury, especially over long distances or running downhill. One common issue is runner’s toe, medically known as a subungual hematoma, which develops when the toenail repeatedly strikes the inside of your shoe. This can lead to bleeding beneath the nail, resulting in changes in nail color, pain, and sometimes nail loss. Poorly fitting running shoes, tight socks, and heat-induced foot swelling can increase the risk. The big toe is most often affected, but the second through fifth toes may also suffer damage from shoe pressure or toe-on-toe friction. In some cases, the nail becomes thick, loose, or may fall off entirely. Repeated trauma may also lead to fungal infection or nail deformity. A podiatrist can assess the extent of the injury and determine if the nail bed or bone has been affected. Treatment includes draining any fluid buildup or in some cases removing the damaged nail. If you have problematic or painful toes that impede your running activities, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact George Tellam, DPM of Ankle & Foot Associates. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Trauma
• Sports injury
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Sprains
• Fractures (broken bones)
• Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

• Severe pain
• Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
• Signs of infection
• Continued swelling
• Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These 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

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Orange Park and Jacksonville Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, typically between the toes. It causes itching, burning, redness, and peeling or cracking skin. In severe cases, blisters may form, leading to pain and discomfort. Athlete’s foot is caused by fungi thriving in warm, damp environments like locker rooms, around swimming pools, or sweaty shoes. To prevent athlete’s foot, it is important to keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes. Change socks regularly, wear breathable shoes, and avoid walking barefoot in public places. Antifungal powders or sprays can help keep the feet dry and reduce the risk of infection. A podiatrist can treat athlete's foot with prescription antifungal medications and provide guidance on proper foot hygiene. They can also offer advice on footwear and recommend lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of recurrence. If you are continuously dealing with athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment methods, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with George Tellam, DPM from Ankle & Foot Associates. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Orange Park and Jacksonville Beach, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.