Achilles tendon injuries are a common cause of ankle pain, particularly among athletes and active individuals. The Achilles tendon, located at the back of the lower leg, is the largest tendon in the body and connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is responsible for enabling key movements, such as walking, running, and jumping. However, overuse, repetitive strain, or sudden force can lead to tendon damage, leading to discomfort and reduced mobility.

Exploring the right treatment for damaged Achilles tendons is a critical step toward recovery, especially when mobility and quality of life are affected. For many patients, the thought of undergoing foot and ankle surgery can be daunting. However, surgery is not always the first or only option. Many cases of Achilles tendon damage can be managed successfully through non-surgical treatments, allowing individuals to recover and regain function without the need for invasive procedures.

Understanding Achilles Tendon Damage

Before diving into non-surgical treatment for damaged Achilles tendons, it’s important to understand the nature of Achilles tendon damage. There are several types of injuries that can occur:

• Tendinitis: This refers to inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often caused by overuse or repetitive strain. Tendinitis typically leads to pain, stiffness, and swelling along the tendon.
  
  
• Tendinosis: Unlike tendinitis, tendinosis involves the degeneration of the tendon’s collagen fibers due to chronic stress. It is often a result of untreated tendinitis and can lead to long-term pain and dysfunction.
  
  
• Tendon Tears or Ruptures: A complete rupture of the Achilles tendon is a more severe injury that typically requires surgical intervention to repair. However, partial tears may be treatable with conservative methods.

While tendinitis and tendinosis can often be managed without surgery, a full tendon rupture or tear may require surgical repair, especially if conservative treatments fail.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Damaged Achilles Tendons

Fortunately, most Achilles tendon injuries, including tendinitis and tendinosis, can be managed without resorting to foot and ankle surgery. The goal of non-surgical treatments is to reduce pain, improve function, and promote healing. Here are some of the most common approaches:

1. Rest

Rest is often the first step in recovering from Achilles tendon injuries. Overuse is a major factor in the development of tendon damage, so taking a break from activities that place strain on the tendon, such as running or jumping, is crucial. This allows the tendon to heal and reduces the risk of further injury.

Activity modification doesn't mean complete immobility, but rather adjusting your exercise routine to prevent stress on the Achilles. Low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, can be excellent alternatives during the recovery period.

2. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a key role in Achilles tendon rehabilitation. A podiatrist or physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles surrounding the Achilles tendon, improve flexibility, and promote better movement patterns. 

Eccentric strengthening exercises are among the most effective physical therapy techniques for Achilles tendon injuries. These exercises involve lengthening the tendon while it is under tension, which has been shown to stimulate healing and improve tendon strength. Regular stretching and strengthening can help restore functionality and reduce the likelihood of future injuries.

3. Foot and Ankle Bracing

For individuals with Achilles tendon damage, using a brace or orthotic device can help support the foot and ankle while the tendon heals. A podiatrist may recommend an ankle brace or custom orthotics to relieve pressure from the tendon and improve overall alignment. Bracing can help stabilize the tendon, preventing it from overstretching and providing relief from acute pain.

In some cases, a walking boot or a heel lift may be recommended to reduce strain on the tendon during treatment for a damaged Achilles tendon. Heel lifts work by slightly elevating the heel, which helps to relieve tension on the Achilles tendon and allows for pain-free movement.

4. Ice and Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Applying ice to the Achilles tendon can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Icing the tendon after activities or when experiencing flare-ups is a simple and effective way to manage discomfort. Typically, 15 to 20 minutes of ice application, a few times a day, can make a significant difference in reducing swelling and pain.

In addition to ice, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation. However, these should only be used as directed by a healthcare provider, as prolonged use can lead to side effects. It’s always best to consult with a foot doctor before starting any medication regimen.

5. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)

For individuals with chronic pain that does not respond to conventional treatments for damaged Achilles tendons, extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) may be an option. This non-invasive procedure uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues.

ESWT has been shown to promote collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve blood flow to the tendon, which can aid in the healing process. While it may not be effective for every individual, ESWT can be a promising option for those looking to avoid surgery and improve long-term tendon health.

6. Corticosteroids

Corticosteroid injections may be considered in certain cases of Achilles tendonitis. These injections work by reducing inflammation and relieving pain. Caution is required when using steroids for Achilles injuries, as repeated use can weaken the tendon and increase the risk of rupture.

Steroid injections are usually reserved for cases where other non-surgical treatments have failed. A foot doctor or podiatrist will carefully evaluate whether this option is appropriate, considering the potential risks.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

While non-surgical treatments are often effective for managing Achilles tendon damage, there are cases where surgery becomes necessary. If conservative approaches fail after several months of treatment, or if the tendon is severely ruptured or torn, surgery may be the best option for restoring function.

Foot and ankle surgery for Achilles tendon injuries typically involves repairing a ruptured tendon or removing damaged tissue. Post-surgical rehabilitation is essential for regaining strength and mobility, and it may take several months before a full recovery is achieved.

However, most cases of Achilles tendonitis and tendinosis can be treated successfully without surgery. Consulting with a foot doctor or podiatrist is the best way to determine the right course of action for your specific injury.

Can You Avoid Surgery with the Right Treatment for Damaged Achilles Tendons?

Achilles tendon damage can be a painful and debilitating condition, but surgery is not always necessary to achieve a full recovery. Many individuals can successfully reverse tendon damage and alleviate ankle pain through non-surgical treatments, such as rest, physical therapy, bracing, and specialized therapies.

If you're experiencing Achilles tendon pain, the first step is to consult a foot doctor or podiatrist who can evaluate your condition and recommend a personalized treatment plan. With the right approach, you can recover from Achilles tendon damage, restore your mobility, and return to the activities you love without the need for foot and ankle surgery.

The path to recovery is within reach! Take the first step today.

Whether you’ve twisted your ankle while running, sprained it during a sports game, or experienced a traumatic event that led to a foot and ankle fracture, it can be easy to assume that ankle pain is always linked to a past injury. While this is a reasonable assumption, the causes of chronic ankle pain aren’t always injury-related. There are a variety of other factors that can contribute to ongoing discomfort, which is why it's important to consult with a foot doctor or podiatrist for a proper diagnosis. 

Today, we will explore some of the reasons why chronic ankle pain may occur, even in the absence of a previous injury.

1. Overuse and Repetitive Stress

Chronic ankle pain often arises due to overuse or repetitive stress, which can lead to wear and tear on the ligaments, tendons, and joints in the ankle. Running, walking long distances, and participating in high-impact sports can strain the ankle over time, causing pain that persists long after any specific injury has occurred.

One common cause of this type of pain is overuse of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Overloading this tendon through activities like running or jumping can cause inflammation or tendinitis, resulting in chronic ankle pain. People who engage in sports that require sudden changes in direction, such as basketball or soccer, may be especially susceptible to this condition. Even if there wasn’t a major injury, the repeated stress on the ankle structures can lead to chronic discomfort.

2. Arthritis in the Ankle Joint

Arthritis is one of the more significant causes of chronic ankle pain and can develop even if you’ve never had a direct injury to the ankle. Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, occurs when the cartilage that cushions the joints breaks down over time. This leads to bone-on-bone contact, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.

Ankle arthritis can be particularly debilitating, and it often results from general wear and tear rather than a specific incident. It can affect individuals who have engaged in repetitive movements over the years, such as athletes, military personnel, or even people who are on their feet for long periods due to their work. Symptoms of ankle arthritis may include limited range of motion, pain when bearing weight on the foot, and swelling, which might mimic the discomfort associated with an old injury.

3. Tendonitis and Tendon Tears

Tendons are strong, fibrous structures that connect muscles to bones, and they play a key role in movement and stability. The Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, is especially prone to tendonitis, a condition characterized by inflammation and irritation of the tendon.

Tendonitis can occur due to repeated stress, sudden changes in physical activity, or simply poor footwear. Symptoms can include pain and swelling in the tendon, particularly when walking or climbing stairs. In some cases, the tendon can tear, which may result in severe pain, difficulty walking, and a visible gap or deformity in the tendon. While an acute injury might cause a tendon tear, chronic tendonitis may develop gradually over time without a specific incident to blame.

4. Nerve Impingement or Entrapment

Nerve impingement or entrapment in the ankle can also lead to chronic pain. This occurs when a nerve in the ankle or foot becomes compressed or irritated, causing pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness. One example of nerve impingement is tarsal tunnel syndrome, which occurs when the posterior tibial nerve is compressed as it passes through the tarsal tunnel on the inside of the ankle.

Nerve impingement can result from a variety of factors, including swelling or inflammation in the area, structural abnormalities, or even tight footwear that places pressure on the nerves. While it can be associated with previous injuries, it can also develop without any prior trauma. In some cases, chronic nerve pain may be mistaken for other types of foot or ankle pain, especially if there is no obvious history of injury.

5. Post-Traumatic Pain After a Foot and Ankle Fracture

While it's true that some chronic ankle pain is linked to old injuries, it’s important to note that even after a foot and ankle fracture has healed, residual pain can persist. Fractures, even if they are well-treated with foot and ankle surgery, can sometimes lead to lingering discomfort due to factors such as poor healing, misalignment, or changes in how the body compensates for the injury.

Post-traumatic pain can manifest as chronic aches, stiffness, or discomfort in the area of the original injury, and it may persist even after the fracture has fully healed. A foot doctor or podiatrist may recommend physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, or further interventions to address any ongoing symptoms.

6. Poor Foot Mechanics or Alignment

Poor foot mechanics and alignment issues are common causes of chronic ankle pain. Structural abnormalities, such as flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns, can put additional stress on the ankle joint, leading to pain and discomfort over time. People with improper foot mechanics may experience recurring ankle pain even if they have never experienced a specific injury.

Misalignments in the foot and ankle can affect the way force is distributed through the lower limbs during walking or running. This abnormal distribution of force can result in overuse or strain of certain tendons and ligaments, leading to chronic ankle pain. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure and alignment to determine if this is a contributing factor to your discomfort and recommend orthotics to help with your alignment.

7. Infection or Inflammatory Conditions

Though rare, infections or inflammatory conditions can also cause chronic ankle pain. Infections can develop after a surgical procedure, such as foot and ankle surgery, or after an injury where the skin has been broken. Infections may cause redness, swelling, and significant pain around the ankle joint. Additionally, inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout can lead to chronic ankle pain due to the immune system attacking the joints or crystals building up in the joint, respectively.

Treatment & Causes of Chronic Ankle Pain

Chronic ankle pain can stem from various causes, and it isn’t always linked to a past injury. Whether due to overuse, arthritis, tendonitis, nerve impingement, or alignment issues, understanding the true source of your ankle pain requires a professional evaluation from a foot doctor or podiatrist. 

If you’re experiencing ongoing ankle pain, it's important to seek out an expert who can properly diagnose the issue and recommend the appropriate treatment. Early intervention can help prevent the pain from becoming more severe and allow you to return to your normal activities without discomfort.

Don’t ignore your ankle pain any longer. Find a solution at Physicians Footcare!

Foot health can be easy to overlook, but when foot pain strikes, it’s impossible to ignore. Some of the most common causes of foot pain are corns, bunions, and calluses, but despite being frequently mentioned together, they’re distinct in both appearance and cause. Understanding the differences between a corn vs a bunion vs a callus can help you figure out the best approach for treating them, and when it's time to consult a podiatrist.

These conditions can be more than just cosmetic concerns - they can lead to significant discomfort and interfere with your daily activities. By recognizing the signs early on and seeking professional advice from a podiatrist, you can prevent these problems from escalating.

What Are Corns, Bunions, and Calluses?

Corns, bunions, and calluses are all foot conditions related to pressure and friction, but each manifests in a different way.

Corns

Corns are small, hardened layers of skin that form as a result of pressure or friction. They are often found on the tops and sides of toes, where shoes or other footwear rub against the skin. There are two main types of corns: hard corns and soft corns. Hard corns are more common and form on the tops of toes. Soft corns, in contrast, typically develop between the toes and are softer due to moisture in the area.

Bunions

Bunions are a bone deformity where the big toe joint begins to bulge outward, causing the big toe to lean towards the second toe. This protrusion can lead to pain, irritation, and even the formation of corns or calluses over time. Bunions are usually caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes, but genetics, flat feet, or abnormal foot mechanics can also contribute to their development.

Calluses

Calluses, on the other hand, are larger, thicker patches of skin that form on the soles of the feet or on the heels. Like corns, calluses form in response to friction, but they tend to be more widespread and less focused on a single spot. While calluses are often not painful, they can become uncomfortable if left untreated, especially when they grow thick or cracked.

Causes and Risk Factors

Corns & Calluses

Corns and calluses are primarily caused by pressure or friction against the skin, often from tight shoes, high heels, or excessive walking. For individuals with flat feet, the abnormal foot structure can lead to uneven pressure distribution, making certain areas of the foot more susceptible to corns and calluses. High-heeled shoes, for example, can push the toes into an unnatural position, causing corns to form on the top of the toes or sides of the feet.

Bunions

In contrast, bunions are generally a result of long-term abnormal pressure on the big toe joint, which can cause the bones in the foot to shift. This condition is often exacerbated by wearing shoes that don’t provide proper support or by wearing narrow-toed shoes that crowd the toes together. People with flat feet are also at a higher risk of developing bunions because their feet may overpronate (roll inward), leading to misalignment of the toes.

People with high arches or low arches can be more vulnerable to bunions due to the way their feet distribute weight during walking. An imbalance in foot mechanics may make the big toe joint more prone to deformity.

Corn vs Bunion vs Callus: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Corns

One of the main differences between these conditions is where they occur and how they feel. Corns tend to develop in smaller, more concentrated areas of the foot, usually on the toes or between them. They often cause sharp, localized pain because the hardened skin presses against underlying tissue. You may also notice that corns can cause discomfort when wearing shoes, especially those with tight or pointed toes.

Bunions

Bunions are easy to spot because they cause a visible bump on the side of the foot. The big toe may point inward toward the other toes, and the bunion itself may be swollen, red, or painful to touch. In more severe cases, the misalignment of the big toe can lead to difficulty walking or wearing regular shoes. Bunions often make the skin over the joint sore, and you might also develop calluses or corns due to pressure from the deformity.

Calluses

Calluses, on the other hand, generally don’t cause sharp pain but can become uncomfortable if they grow too thick. They usually form on the soles of the feet, often under the balls of the feet or on the heels. Calluses are more spread out, providing a broad, tough area of skin that acts as a protective layer against friction. However, when calluses get too thick, they can crack and even become infected.

A foot doctor or podiatrist is the best resource for diagnosing any of these conditions. They can perform a thorough examination and use X-rays to check for structural issues, particularly in the case of bunions.

Treatment Options for Corns, Bunions, and Calluses

While corns and calluses are generally treated in similar ways, bunions require more specialized care. Foot orthotics can significantly reduce pain related to all three of these conditions. These custom insoles are designed to redistribute pressure across the foot, helping to alleviate pain and prevent the formation of corns and calluses. For people with flat feet, orthotics can also provide the necessary support to prevent the abnormal foot mechanics that lead to bunions.

Corns & Calluses

For corns and calluses, treatment typically involves reducing the friction or pressure causing the buildup of thickened skin. A podiatrist may gently trim the corn or callus using specialized tools. They might also recommend soaking the foot to soften the affected area, followed by gentle exfoliation. It's important to avoid trying to remove corns or calluses at home using sharp objects, as this can lead to injury or infection.

In some cases, over-the-counter creams containing salicylic acid can help soften the thickened skin of corns and calluses. However, these treatments are not suitable for everyone, especially for individuals with diabetes or poor circulation, as they can cause damage to the skin.

Bunions

When it comes to bunions, the treatment approach will depend on the severity of the condition. For early-stage bunions, it is important to wear properly fitted shoes that provide adequate support. A foot doctor may also recommend bunion pads, which can cushion the affected area and reduce pressure from shoes. In some cases, a podiatrist might advise the use of foot orthotics to improve alignment and relieve pain.

If non-surgical treatments fail and the pain becomes chronic or debilitating, surgery may be necessary to correct the alignment of the big toe joint. Surgical options vary depending on the severity of the bunion, but the goal is always to reduce pain and restore normal function to the foot.

When to See a Foot Doctor

While corns and calluses are often manageable at home, there are situations where you should seek the expertise of a podiatrist. If you experience persistent foot pain, especially in the form of sharp or radiating discomfort, it’s a sign that your condition may require medical attention. Bunions, in particular, can cause significant pain and interfere with your ability to walk. If you notice a visible bump or swelling around the big toe, it’s time to consult a podiatrist.

If corns or calluses become infected, crack open, or cause difficulty walking, it’s also important to seek professional treatment. A podiatrist will help remove the growths safely and may recommend solutions such as foot orthotics to prevent further issues.

Corns, Bunions, Calluses, and Foot Pain

Whether you’re suffering from heel pain or managing painful bunions, consulting a podiatrist is often the best way to relieve pain fast. With the right treatment, you can alleviate pain, prevent further damage, and keep your feet feeling healthy and strong.

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Athlete’s foot is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s caused by a fungal infection, typically in the skin between the toes, and can lead to itching, burning, and unpleasant rashes. Unfortunately, for many individuals, athlete’s foot doesn’t seem to go away permanently. It often returns, sometimes in the same spot, and sometimes even spreading to other areas of the foot.

If your athlete’s foot keeps coming back, you're not alone, and understanding why it is such a persistent issue is the first step toward finding a lasting solution. In this article, we'll explore why athlete’s foot comes back, factors that contribute to its persistence, and the best methods for eradicating the infection once and for all. If you're tired of dealing with the constant flare-ups, keep reading - it’s time to take control and put an end to your battle with athlete's foot for good!

What Is Athlete's Foot?

Athlete's foot is a type of fungal infection caused by fungi known as dermatophytes. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, which makes your feet the perfect breeding ground. The infection typically begins between the toes but can spread to other areas of the feet and even to the toenails, causing a secondary condition like fungal toenails.

The classic symptoms of athlete’s foot include:

• Itching
• Burning
• Redness
• Dry or scaly skin
• Cracked or peeling skin

The infection is highly contagious and can be passed from person to person or through contaminated surfaces, like shared showers or locker rooms.

Why Does Athlete’s Foot Keep Coming Back?

If you’ve battled athlete’s foot more than once, you may have wondered why it seems to reappear no matter what you do. There are several reasons why athlete’s foot can be persistent and difficult to eliminate.

1. Inadequate Treatment or Noncompliance

One of the most common reasons athlete’s foot keeps coming back is that it wasn’t treated properly in the first place. Over-the-counter antifungal creams, sprays, and powders can be effective, but they often require consistent and complete use. Some people stop using the treatment once the symptoms subside, but this doesn’t mean the infection is completely gone. Fungal spores may still remain, waiting for the right conditions to resurface.

If you’re using an antifungal treatment, it's important to follow the instructions closely. Even if the itching and burning subside, continue using the medication for the recommended period. A failure to complete the full course of treatment is one of the most common reasons for recurrence.

2. Improper Foot Hygiene

Fungal infections thrive in warm, damp environments, which makes poor foot hygiene a contributing factor to recurring athlete's foot. If you don’t dry your feet properly after washing them, or if you wear socks or shoes that trap moisture, you’re creating the perfect conditions for fungi to grow. Sweaty feet are a common culprit, especially for people who wear the same pair of shoes every day or who use shared spaces like gym showers.

Ensuring that your feet are thoroughly dried after washing, especially between the toes, is one of the most important steps in preventing the recurrence of athlete’s foot. If you’re prone to sweaty feet, you might also want to use foot powders or antifungal sprays to help keep moisture at bay.

3. Fungal Toenails

If you have fungal toenails in addition to athlete’s foot that keeps coming back, the problem can become even more difficult to tackle. Fungal toenails, or onychomycosis, are caused by the same type of fungi that cause athlete’s foot. The infection often starts in the toenails and can spread to the surrounding skin. Because toenails are harder to treat than skin, the infection may linger for an extended period.

Fungal toenails often appear yellow, thickened, and brittle, and may cause pain or discomfort. If athlete’s foot is being treated but fungal toenails are left untreated, the fungus can continue to spread. It’s essential to consult a podiatrist or foot doctor if you have both athlete’s foot and fungal toenails, as a combination of treatments may be needed to fully eliminate the infection.

4. Reinfection

When treating an athlete’s foot infection, mind the possibility of reinfection. Fungi can survive on surfaces like towels, shoes, and socks, meaning that even if you treat your feet, you may reintroduce the infection. For example, if you don’t wash your towels or change your socks regularly, the fungi can survive and multiply, reinfecting your feet when you come into contact with them.

To prevent reinfection, wash your socks and towels with hot water and disinfect your shoes. You may also want to consider using antifungal sprays on your shoes to kill any remaining fungi.

5. Underlying Medical Conditions

In some cases, underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or immune system disorders can make it harder for your body to fight off fungal infections. People with diabetes, for example, are at an increased risk of developing foot infections due to poor circulation and nerve damage. If your immune system is compromised, either due to medication or a chronic condition, your body may not be able to effectively fight off fungal infections.

If you have a medical condition that affects your immune system or circulation, it’s even more important to seek help from a podiatrist or foot doctor. They can offer specialized advice and treatments to prevent the recurrence of athlete’s foot.

How to Get Rid of Athlete’s Foot for Good

If athlete’s foot keeps coming back despite your efforts, it’s time to take a more proactive approach to ensure the infection is eradicated for good. Below are some strategies that will help you break the cycle of recurrent athlete’s foot.

1. See a Podiatrist or Foot Doctor

The first step in getting rid of athlete’s foot permanently is to consult with a podiatrist or foot doctor. A foot specialist can accurately diagnose the infection and recommend the most effective treatment. In some cases, prescription-strength antifungal medications may be required to completely eliminate the infection.

Your podiatrist may also check for any underlying conditions, such as fungal toenails or diabetes, that could be contributing to the recurrence of athlete’s foot. They can offer personalized advice on foot care and hygiene practices to prevent future infections.

2. Complete Your Treatment

As mentioned earlier, it’s crucial to complete your entire treatment regimen, even if the symptoms improve. Most antifungal treatments need to be used for at least two weeks, and sometimes longer, to fully eliminate the infection. If you stop treatment too soon, the fungus may survive and cause the infection to come back.

3. Practice Proper Foot Hygiene

Good foot hygiene is key to preventing the recurrence of athlete’s foot. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and make sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. If you’re prone to sweaty feet, consider using foot powder or antifungal sprays to keep your feet dry.

Additionally, make sure to change socks regularly, especially if they become damp or sweaty. Opt for socks made from materials that wick moisture away from your feet, such as cotton or moisture-wicking blends.

4. Disinfect Your Shoes

Fungal spores can linger in your shoes, reinfecting your feet every time you wear them. After treating athlete’s foot, make sure to disinfect your shoes with antifungal sprays or powders. You may also want to rotate between pairs of shoes to allow them time to dry out between uses.

5. Avoid Contaminated Areas

Since athlete’s foot is highly contagious, avoid walking barefoot in public areas where fungi may thrive, such as gym showers, locker rooms, or swimming pools. Wearing flip-flops or shower shoes in these areas can help protect your feet from reinfection.

Getting Rid of Athlete’s Foot For Good

Athlete’s foot can be a frustrating and persistent problem, but with the right approach, it can be eliminated for good. By practicing good foot hygiene, completing your treatment, and seeking help from a podiatrist or foot doctor, you can break the cycle of recurring infections. If you have fungal toenails or other underlying conditions that are contributing to your athlete’s foot, make sure to address those issues as well.

If you’ve been battling this condition for a long time but your athlete’s foot keeps coming back, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Take control of your foot health today and say goodbye to athlete’s foot for good!