Items filtered by date: May 2023

Wearing orthotics may be a wise choice for people who have had a previous foot injury. It may also benefit patients who have an abnormal foot structure, because it may help to realign the foot. There are several types of orthotics that are available, rigid, semi-rigid, cushioned, and flat cushion. A rigid orthotic does not bend and is made of hard materials. The semi-rigid orthotic can be firm and moderately flexible. A cushioned orthotic is not firm and is constructed with cushioning materials. Lastly, an orthotic that does not have support is referred to as a flat cushion. Choosing what type of orthotics to purchase largely depends on the specific foot condition that needs to be addressed. Foot ailments that may require orthotics to be worn can include Morton’s neuroma, bunions, or hammertoe. Additionally, wearing orthotics may be helpful for people who stand for the majority of the day. If you have a certain type of foot condition that may benefit by wearing orthotics, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine what the best type is for you.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from Georgia Blue Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct overarched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you or if you have a more severe foot concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

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

Many people take their feet for granted, even though they are the foundation of the body. The feet will feel better when everyday foot care methods are routinely applied, which can begin with washing and drying the feet thoroughly. This can be followed by using a good moisturizer and trimming the toenails once per week. It is beneficial to cut the toenails straight across instead of in a curved fashion, and this may be helpful in preventing an ingrown toenail from developing. When the skin on the feet is regularly exfoliated, the removal of dead skin can make them feel softer. Exfoliating can be accomplished using a pumice stone, and it can help to soak the feet in warm water before beginning this procedure. It is beneficial to wear shoes that fit correctly, which can help to prevent several uncomfortable foot conditions from developing. If you would like more information about successful everyday foot care tips, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Everyday foot care is very important to prevent infection and other foot ailments. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Georgia Blue Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Everyday Foot Care

Often, people take care of their bodies, face and hair more so than they do for their feet. But the feet are a very important aspect of our bodies, and one that we should pay more attention to. Without our feet, we would not be able to perform most daily tasks.

It is best to check your feet regularly to make sure there are no new bruises or cuts that you may not have noticed before. For dry feet, moisturizer can easily be a remedy and can be applied as often as necessary to the affected areas. Wearing shoes that fit well can also help you maintain good foot health, as well as making it easier to walk and do daily activities without the stress or pain of ill-fitting shoes, high heels, or even flip flops. Wearing clean socks with closed shoes is important to ensure that sweat and bacteria do not accumulate within the shoe. Clean socks help to prevent Athlete’s foot, fungi problems, bad odors, and can absorb sweat.

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

If you experience pain between the third and fourth toes, it may be caused by a condition known as Morton’s neuroma. It is also referred to as interdigital neuroma or plantar neuroma. You may be feeling numbness, burning, or aching in the area. These symptoms are the result of a thickening in tissue that surrounds a nerve near the toes. Morton’s neuroma is frequently experienced by women who wear high-heeled shoes with pointy toes. A frequently reported symptom is the feeling of a lump in the shoe near the ball of the foot. Adding a cushioned shoe insert and giving the foot a quick massage can sometimes alleviate the pain. A tingling sensation between the toes, known as paresthesia, also may develop as the result of Morton’s neuroma. Wearing shoes with a wider toe box can also help alleviate this. However, if the pain in the ball of the foot worsens whenever you put weight on it, it may be time to see a foot doctor for an exam. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose the cause of the pain and offer treatment options.  

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Georgia Blue Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

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

The ankle is a critical part of the human foot because it connects the foot to the lower leg and facilitates mobility and motion. However, sometimes an individual can experience ankle pain when walking and putting the weight of the body on the ankle. There are several possible reasons for this. Some patients have endured some kind of ankle injury that causes them pain while walking. For example, a person may have bruised, sprained, or fractured their ankle, resulting in pain. Also, some individuals experience ankle pain when walking due to an Achilles tendon injury, such as a tear or rupture. If you are experiencing ankle pain and walking has become difficult, it is highly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for an exam and treatment options.

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 Georgia Blue Foot and Ankle. 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 tendinitis
• 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 office located in Douglasville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

It is undeniable that wearing certain kinds of shoes can negatively impact the health of the feet. For example, flip-flops and high heels are just two kinds of shoes that can potentially harm the health of the feet. Flat shoes with little to no support or cushioning can also cause pain in the feet, especially the heels. There are many reasons for this phenomenon. Most importantly, when an individual walks with flat shoes, the heel bone takes the brunt of the force. Therefore, flat shoes may exacerbate heel pain. One can mitigate heel pain and prevent it by wearing supportive shoes instead of completely flat shoes. If you are someone currently struggling with heel pain, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist today for treatment and advice. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Georgia Blue Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

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