Items filtered by date: December 2024

Diabetes can significantly impact the health of the feet, leading to complications that may affect the toes, feet, and ankles. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the peripheral nerves, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy. This nerve damage can cause tingling, pain, or loss of sensation, which makes it difficult to notice injuries like blisters or cuts. When unnoticed and untreated, these minor issues can develop into infections or ulcers. Diabetes also can impair blood circulation to the feet, reducing the ability to heal and increasing the risk of gangrene in severe cases. People with diabetes may also develop foot deformities, such as Charcot's foot, which causes swelling and bone changes that alter the shape of the foot. Preventive measures are essential, including regular inspections by a podiatrist, along with improved daily foot care habits. A podiatrist can monitor your feet for early signs of complications and offer appropriate wound care treatment as needed. If you have foot problems as a complication of diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ankle pain is often a symptom of arthritis, with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout being some of the leading causes. Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage in the ankle joint breaks down, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition, causes inflammation in the joints, leading to pain and limited mobility. Gout, a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals, often affects the ankle, causing sudden, intense pain and redness. Arthritis in the ankle can significantly impact daily activities, making walking or standing difficult. Over time, untreated arthritis can lead to joint deformities, further restricting movement. Treatment for arthritis-related ankle pain typically includes taking anti-inflammatory medications, targeted exercises, and lifestyle changes like weight management. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. A podiatrist can accurately diagnose the type of arthritis and create a personalized treatment plan to manage pain and improve mobility. If you are experiencing ankle pain from arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinopathy is a common foot and ankle issue caused by overuse of the Achilles tendon. It can be classified into two types, which are insertional, where the tendon attaches to the heel, and non-insertional, which impacts the middle portion of the tendon. While both cause pain, swelling, and stiffness, insertional tendinopathy often involves discomfort at the back of the heel, while non-insertional pain is felt higher up along the tendon. If left untreated, the tendon can go through non-healing stages known as reactive tendinopathy, or early swelling and pain, tendon disrepair, and degenerative tendinopathy, causing long-term damage with thickening and weakness. Proper treatment includes rest, targeted exercises, and addressing any biomechanical issues. If you are experiencing persistent pain in your Achilles tendon, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. Our doctors 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 Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

High heels are fashionable but can worsen hallux valgus, commonly known as bunions. These shoes often have narrow toe boxes that squeeze the toes, forcing the big toe out of alignment and aggravating the bony bump at its base. The elevated heel shifts body weight forward, increasing pressure on the forefoot and the bunion, leading to inflammation and discomfort. High heels also alter the natural mechanics of walking, limiting toe movement and stressing the joints, which can accelerate the progression of hallux valgus. For those already experiencing bunion pain, high heels amplify friction and irritation, causing swelling and redness that make walking uncomfortable. Opting for shoes with a wider toe box and a lower heel height can help minimize pain while preserving foot health. If you have developed a bunion from wearing high heels, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for relief options and guidance on choosing shoes that will protect against further foot damage.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spur surgery may be recommended when chronic heel pain does not improve with non-surgical treatments. Heel spurs are bony outgrowths on the calcaneus, often linked to conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. Heel spur surgery aims to alleviate pain by removing the bone spur and addressing the underlying issue. Procedures vary based on the spur's location. Inferior spurs, which develop on the bottom of the heel, are often treated alongside plantar fasciitis release surgery. Posterior spurs, which occur near the Achilles tendon, require more complex techniques. Treatment may involve open surgery or less invasive endoscopic methods, with recovery typically taking several weeks to months. Risks include nerve damage, foot instability, or prolonged discomfort. A podiatrist can guide you through diagnosis, recommend the appropriate treatment, and support your recovery. If you are suffering from heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot and Ankle Reconstruction of Georgia. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our offices located in Woodstock, Jasper, and Marietta, GA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.