Athletes place repeated pressure on their feet during running, jumping, and quick direction changes. Over time, this constant friction and stress can cause the skin to thicken in certain areas. Corns and calluses are the body’s natural response to protect the skin from ongoing pressure. Calluses usually appear as larger areas of thickened skin on the ball of the foot or heel, while corns are smaller and often form on the tops or sides of toes where shoes rub. Although this thickened skin may begin as a protective response, it can become painful if it continues to build up. Wearing poorly fitting athletic shoes, tight cleats, or foot structure differences may increase pressure on certain parts of the foot. Proper footwear, protective padding, and routine foot care may help reduce irritation. When corns or calluses become painful or keep returning, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

The Achilles tendon is a thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It plays an important role in walking, running, and jumping by transferring force from the leg to the foot. One key mechanical property of the tendon is strength. The Achilles tendon is one of the strongest tendons in the body and can handle high levels of force during daily movement. Another important feature is elasticity, which allows the tendon to stretch slightly and then return to its original shape. This ability helps store and release energy when the foot pushes off the ground. The tendon also has stiffness, which allows it to move force efficiently from the calf muscles to the foot. However, repeated stress or tight muscles can place extra strain on the tendon and lead to injury. If you experience heel or tendon pain, 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 Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner 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 Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Supination and pronation describe the natural rolling motion of the foot during standing, walking, and running. Pronation occurs when the foot rolls inward to absorb shock and adapt to the ground, while supination occurs when the foot rolls outward, placing more weight along the outer edge. Proper balance between these motions supports healthy alignment and efficient movement. Genetics, foot structure, muscle imbalance, previous injuries, and improper footwear can contribute to excessive pronation or supination. Abnormal mechanics may lead to heel pain, ankle instability, shin splints, or knee discomfort. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, identify underlying causes, and recommend custom orthotics or supportive treatment. If you have foot pain from walking in a specific way,  it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and monitor your foot health. 

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Harold Koehler, DPM from University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner 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 Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when a major nerve on the inside of the ankle becomes compressed as it travels into the foot. This pressure can create tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp discomfort that may radiate into the arch, heel, or toes. Symptoms often feel worse after long periods of standing or walking, and some people notice relief only when they rest. Because the nerve sits in a tight space surrounded by ligaments and bone, anything that increases swelling or strain in the area can trigger irritation, including flat feet, prior injury, or certain medical conditions. Ignoring these sensations can lead to ongoing instability or increasing sensitivity in the foot. Early care focuses on reducing pressure, improving support, and calming inflammation to protect the nerve. If the tingling or burning continues or begins to affect your daily routine, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact Harold Koehler, DPM of University Foot & Ankle. Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Auburn Hills and Holly, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.