Items filtered by date: November 2025

A rupture of the Achilles tendon, the strong cord that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, often causes sudden pain in the back of the ankle and difficulty pushing off the foot. An Achilles tendon rupture usually occurs during activities that involve a quick change in direction or an explosive push from the foot. When the tendon tears, patients often describe hearing or feeling a “pop,” followed by swelling and weakness when standing on the toes. A podiatrist can diagnose this injury through a physical exam and imaging tests to confirm the extent of the rupture. Treatment depends on the severity of the tear and can involve immobilization with a boot or surgery to repair the tendon. Early, controlled movement during recovery helps maintain strength and flexibility while reducing the chance of re-injury. If you have injured your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Keleigh Muxlow, DPM of Colorado. 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 Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

The human foot is a complex structure made up of bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments that work together to support movement and balance. It contains the tarsal bones in the rear and midfoot, the metatarsals in the arch and forefoot, and the phalanges that form the toes. These bones connect through joints that allow smooth motion while walking or running, as the alignment and function of these structures are essential for stability and shock absorption. When any part of the foot becomes strained or injured, pain and imbalance can occur. A podiatrist can evaluate the biomechanics of the foot, identify abnormalities, and provide treatments or custom orthotics for improved comfort. If you have persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Keleigh Muxlow, DPM from Colorado. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Hammertoe surgery is performed to correct a deformity where a toe bends abnormally at one or more joints, often causing pain, irritation, and difficulty wearing shoes. Surgery becomes necessary when conservative treatments no longer relieve discomfort. There are two main types of procedures, internal fixation and decompression techniques. Internal fixation involves straightening the toe and stabilizing it with small implants. Decompression surgery releases tight tendons or removes a small piece of bone to restore alignment. A podiatrist evaluates the severity of the deformity and recommends the most suitable option for lasting relief. If you have this condition that is interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of hammertoe surgery and discuss whether it is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Keleigh Muxlow, DPM of Colorado. 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 office located in Littleton, CO . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A baby’s feet are soft, flexible, and still developing, which makes proper care essential for healthy growth. Gently wash and dry your baby’s feet daily, and trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. Avoid wearing tight socks or shoes that restrict natural movement and allow the feet to move freely. Encourage gentle foot exercises such as kicking or grasping to strengthen muscles and improve coordination. Common foot concerns in babies include in-toeing, out-toeing, and curly toes, which often improve as they grow. A podiatrist can evaluate your baby’s feet, provide guidance on healthy development, and address any concerns early. If your child has any foot pain or has symptoms of specific foot conditions, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment solutions.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Keleigh Muxlow, DPM of Colorado. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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