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Treatment Options for Achilles Insertional Tendinopathy

Tuesday, 03 March 2026

Pain where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heel bone is called Achilles insertional tendinopathy. This condition often develops gradually and can be stubborn to resolve. Treatment usually begins with reducing strain on the tendon. Activity modification is important, especially avoiding hills, stairs, and sudden increases in exercise. Wearing supportive shoes with a slightly elevated heel can decrease tension at the site. Stretching should be approached carefully, since aggressive stretching may worsen symptoms in this area. Targeted exercises often focus on strengthening the lower leg muscles and improving ankle motion in a controlled way. Anti-inflammatory measures may help calm pain and swelling. In some cases, orthotics or heel lifts are used to improve foot mechanics and reduce stress on the tendon. Advanced options may be considered if pain persists. When heel pain limits walking or daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM of Texas. 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 Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Sunday, 01 March 2026

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Ankle Ulcers and How They Develop

Tuesday, 24 February 2026

An ankle ulcer is an open sore that forms when the skin and deeper tissue break down and cannot repair themselves, often due to circulation problems, diabetes, or long-term pressure on the area. These wounds usually appear on the inner or outer ankle, and may start as a small patch of irritated skin before slowly opening into a moist or dry sore. The edges can look red, dark, or swollen, and some ulcers may drain or feel tender when touched or rubbed by shoes. Because the ankle has limited soft tissue and is exposed to constant movement, healing can be slow without proper care. A podiatrist can evaluate blood flow, clean and protect the wound, select dressings that support healing, and identify any factors that delay recovery. If your ankle wound is not improving or begins to cause more discomfort, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, consult with Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic.

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Lake Jackson, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Have I Broken My Toe?

Tuesday, 17 February 2026

Toe fractures are breaks or cracks in one or more of the small bones of the toes, often resulting from trauma, stubbing, dropping a heavy object on it, or sports injuries. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty walking, and sometimes visible deformity of the toe. Risk factors that increase the likelihood of toe fractures include participating in high-impact activities, having weak bones, or wearing improper footwear that does not protect the toes. Untreated fractures can lead to chronic pain, joint stiffness, or improper healing. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose toe fractures, provide proper immobilization, recommend pain management, and create a treatment plan to ensure correct healing. If you think you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions that are right for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

Throbbing pain
Swelling
Bruising on the skin and toenail
The inability to move the toe
Toe appears crooked or disfigured
Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

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

Common Causes of Foot Pain

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Foot pain can arise from a variety of medical conditions that affect circulation, metabolism, or joint health. Vascular disease may reduce blood flow, causing cold or painful feet. Diabetes can lead to neuropathy, resulting in numbness, tingling, or slow-healing wounds. Thyroid disorders may cause swelling, stiffness, or changes in foot structure. Gout produces sudden, intense joint pain and redness, often in the big toe. Bunions create a visible bump, discomfort, and difficulty walking. Recognizing symptoms early is essential for preventing complications. A podiatrist can evaluate underlying causes, provide customized treatment plans, and offer interventions like orthotics, footwear recommendations, or specialized care to manage pain and improve mobility. If you have any type of foot problem, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot and ankle conditions.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jack A. Sasiene, DPM from Texas. Our doctor 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.