The accessory soleus muscle, or ASM, is a rare muscle condition that can cause pain and numbness on the inner side of the ankle, similar to tarsal tunnel syndrome. ASM usually starts from the fibula or soleus muscle and connects to the Achilles tendon or heel bone. It often appears as a small lump or swelling along the inner back of the ankle. An MRI scan is typically used to confirm its presence. Most cases are mild and can be managed by simply observing the symptoms. However, if the pain becomes severe or impacts daily activities, surgery to remove the extra muscle may be considered. If you have this type of muscle pain, it is strongly suggested that you visit a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is right for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast Foot Care. 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 Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. They often result from improper trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury, and can worsen if infection develops. Early treatment helps relieve discomfort and prevents further complications. Other toenail conditions, such as fungal infections, thickened nails, or nail trauma, can also cause changes in nail color, shape, and texture. These issues may be uncomfortable and make walking or wearing shoes difficult. A podiatrist can safely remove part of an ingrown nail, prescribe medication for infection, or recommend treatments to restore healthy nail growth. Paying attention to nail health, keeping feet clean and dry, and trimming nails straight across are simple steps that help prevent problems. If you have painful or abnormal toenails, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate care.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

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

A broken ankle can occur from a fall, sports injury, or twisting motion that causes one or more of the ankle bones to fracture. Symptoms often include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight. Because breaks can range from small cracks to complex fractures, a professional diagnosis through X-rays is essential to determine the best course of care. Treatment may involve immobilization with a cast or boot, the use of crutches, and rest to allow the bones to heal properly. More serious fractures might require surgical repair with pins or plates to realign the bones and restore stability. Targeted exercises are often given afterward to rebuild strength, balance, and flexibility. If you have sustained an ankle injury with significant pain or swelling, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist promptly for a complete evaluation and appropriate treatment plan.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact David Lambarski, DPM from Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Hammertoes occur when one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, often due to muscle imbalance, wearing tight shoes, or underlying structural problems. When conservative treatments such as padding, footwear changes, or splints no longer relieve discomfort, surgery may be considered. Hammertoe surgery aims to straighten the affected toe, relieve pressure, and restore normal alignment. A podiatrist may remove a small piece of bone, release a tightened tendon, or realign the joint, depending on the severity of the deformity. Recovery typically involves rest, wearing protective footwear, and a gradual return to activity with guidance from your podiatrist. If you are experiencing pain, irritation, or difficulty wearing shoes due to a hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to discuss whether surgical correction may be the best option for long-term comfort and function.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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