Proper foot washing is an important part of daily care for diabetics because it helps protect the skin and lowers the risk of infection. Always use warm water rather than hot water to avoid burns, and gently wash all areas of the feet, including the heels, soles, and between the toes. Pat the skin dry with a soft towel and make sure the spaces between the toes are fully dry to prevent moisture buildup. Apply moisturizer afterward to keep the skin soft, but avoid putting lotion between the toes. A podiatrist can check for early signs of skin changes, guide safe care habits, and treat any concerns before they become serious. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 Kinna Patel, DPM from Sava Podiatry & Wellness Centers. Our doctor 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 office located in Smyrna, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Neuropathy occurs when nerves become damaged, often affecting sensation and movement. In the feet, it can cause tingling, burning, numbness, or sharp pain that worsens over time. Common causes include diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, infections, and certain medications. Poor circulation, alcohol use, and metabolic disorders increase the likelihood of developing nerve damage. Over time, neuropathy can lead to balance issues and injuries that go unnoticed due to loss of feeling. A podiatrist can evaluate nerve function, identify underlying causes, and recommend treatments such as medication, therapy, or specialized footwear. If you are experiencing unusual sensations or pain in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Kinna Patel, DPM from Sava Podiatry & Wellness Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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

Plantar fascial disorders include two common conditions, plantar fasciitis and plantar fibromatosis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, causing sharp heel pain, especially with the first steps in the morning. Plantar fibromatosis involves the growth of firm nodules within the same tissue, leading to discomfort or lumps along the arch. Both conditions may have possible genetic variants that increase susceptibility to tissue changes or inflammation. A podiatrist can diagnose these disorders through an examination and imaging tests, provide stretching programs, custom orthotics, and advanced therapies to reduce pain and improve mobility. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an expert diagnosis and individualized treatment plan.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Kinna Patel, DPM of Sava Podiatry & Wellness Centers. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Smyrna, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet do not develop properly or collapse over time, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. Individuals with flat feet may experience fatigue, pain in the heels or arches, swelling along the inner foot, and difficulty standing or walking for long periods. Causes include genetics, as some people are born with naturally low arches, or conditions that affect muscles, nerves, or joints, such as cerebral palsy or rheumatoid arthritis. Flat feet can also develop due to injury or aging. A podiatrist can assess the structure and function of the feet, recommend custom orthotics, provide supportive footwear guidance, and develop exercises to strengthen foot muscles and improve alignment. If you have flat feet, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide personalized care, helping you to better manage this condition.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Kinna Patel, DPM from Sava Podiatry & Wellness Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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