The shoes worn for running play a large role in how the feet handle repeated force. Because every step places pressure through the heels, arches, and toes, cushioned running shoes can help absorb shock and protect the joints. When shoes lack adequate support, the arches can collapse or roll inward, which may lead to heel pain, shin pain, or irritation of the Achilles tendon. A well-built running shoe keeps the foot aligned, improves ankle stability, and lessens stress on the bones during long distances. People with flat feet, high arches, or neutral arches often benefit from different shoe designs that match their structure. A podiatrist can examine the feet, assess gait, and recommend shoe features that reduce injury risk and keep runners active. If you are experiencing foot pain from running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.

More Tips for Preventing Injury

• Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
• Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
• “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
• Cross-Training is Crucial
• Wear Proper Running Shoes
• Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An Achilles tendon rupture is a tear in the strong tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This injury often occurs when the tendon experiences high stress or sudden force, such as during jumping, rapid acceleration, or intense physical activity. Symptoms can include a snapping sound, sharp pain in the back of the ankle, and aching in the lower leg that makes walking difficult. Many people also notice weakness or an inability to push off the foot. A podiatrist can help by evaluating the severity of the rupture, guiding proper treatment, and supporting recovery with specialized care. Early attention can prevent complications and promote better healing outcomes. If you have symptoms of an Achilles tendon rupture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can restore strength, so you can return to activity with confidence.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. 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 offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that forms when fungus grows on the skin of the feet, especially in warm and damp spaces between the toes. It can affect people of all ages. The risk of athlete’s foot increases when people walk barefoot in shared locker rooms, wear heavy boots for long hours, sweat excessively, or have circulation problems. Tight shoes that lack adequate support or worn-out flip-flops can trap moisture around the toes. Symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, peeling skin, redness, and soft, whitish areas between the toes. In some cases, small blisters can form on the inner foot or dry scaling may develop along the sole. A podiatrist can examine the infected area, confirm the cause, and guide a treatment that helps clear the infection and prevent complications. If you have an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a 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 Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM from Progressive Podiatry.  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 offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel pain can result from several causes, including plantar fasciitis, fractures, or tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes becomes inflamed, often due to overuse, improper footwear, or high impact activities. Heel fractures can result from trauma or stress and may cause swelling, bruising, or difficulty walking. Tendonitis involves inflammation of the tendons around the heel, often from repetitive strain or sudden increases in activity. Heel pain may look subtle from the outside but can feel sharp, stabbing, or aching, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged activity. A podiatrist can diagnose the cause through physical examination, imaging if needed, and gait analysis. Treatment may include stretching, orthotics, supportive footwear, anti-inflammatory therapies, or targeted interventions for fractures. Early evaluation supports faster healing and prevents chronic pain. If you experience persistent heel discomfort, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Julie Jurd-Sadler, DPM of Progressive Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Ijamsville and Mouth Airy, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.