Sports-related foot and ankle injuries can interrupt training, limit performance, and make everyday movement uncomfortable. Running, jumping, and sudden changes in direction place repeated stress on the feet and ankles, increasing the risk of injury. Common problems include ankle sprains, stress fractures, tendon injuries, and heel pain. Tendons are strong bands of tissue that connect muscles to bones. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and stiffness. Difficulty putting weight on the affected foot or ankle is another sign. Some injuries develop suddenly after a fall or awkward landing, while others result from repeated stress that gradually damages bones or soft tissues. Early evaluation helps identify the source of pain before the injury becomes more serious.

A podiatrist carefully evaluates foot structure, ankle stability, and walking pattern to determine what is contributing to the injury. The examination also identifies areas of tenderness and movement problems that increase stress on the feet during sports and other activities. Treatment includes custom orthotics, footwear recommendations, and care tailored to the specific injury. A podiatrist can also recommend exercises that improve flexibility, strength, and balance to support recovery and help reduce the risk of future injuries. Regular evaluations help monitor healing and guide a safe return to athletic activities. Improving foot mechanics can also reduce unnecessary strain on the joints and supporting tissues while walking and running.

Ignoring a sports-related foot or ankle injury can lead to ongoing pain, reduced performance, and a greater chance of repeated injuries. Returning to sports too quickly can increase stress on healing tissues and delay recovery. Wearing shoes that provide proper support and addressing movement problems can help protect the feet and ankles during physical activity. Early podiatry care improves foot function, supports healthy movement, and helps patients return to their favorite activities with greater confidence. If you have sustained a sports-related foot and ankle injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

• Achilles Tendonitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains
• Broken Foot
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Stress Fractures
• Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes one or more of the smaller toes to bend downward at the middle joint instead of lying flat. The condition most often affects the second toe, although it can occur in other toes as well. In its early stages, the toe may still be flexible. Over time, it can become stiff and more difficult to straighten. Common symptoms include toe pain, swelling, and redness around the affected joint. Some people also develop corns or calluses because the bent toe rubs against footwear. As hammertoe progresses, walking and wearing shoes may become increasingly uncomfortable. A podiatric evaluation is important to identify the severity of the condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Several factors can contribute to hammertoe, including muscle imbalance, arthritis, and previous toe injuries. Wearing shoes that place excessive pressure on the toes may also increase the risk. As the toe remains in a bent position, the surrounding muscles and tendons may tighten, making the deformity more difficult to correct. Ongoing changes in toe alignment can also affect balance and alter normal walking patterns. A thorough podiatry examination helps determine how the deformity is affecting foot function and whether other conditions are contributing to the problem. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the toe becomes permanently rigid.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating hammertoe while evaluating the overall structure and function of the foot. Professional treatment focuses on relieving discomfort, improving mobility, and slowing the progression of the deformity. Care is tailored to each patient's condition and may be adjusted as symptoms change over time. Regular follow-up visits also help monitor foot health and address new concerns before they become more serious. If hammertoe is causing pain, limiting your mobility, or making it difficult to wear shoes comfortably, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Kinna Patel, DPM from Sava Podiatry & Wellness Centers. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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.

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet. Although it often begins between the toes, it can also spread to other areas of the foot if left untreated. The infection thrives in warm, moist environments, making locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pool areas common places for exposure. Symptoms include itching, burning, and cracked skin. Some people also notice redness, peeling, or a rash that causes ongoing discomfort. In more severe cases, the skin may become painful or develop blisters. Because other skin conditions can appear similar, a professional evaluation is important to confirm the cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing athlete's foot. Wearing damp footwear, sharing personal items, or spending time in moist environments may increase the chance of infection. People who sweat heavily or have small breaks in the skin may also be more susceptible. Without proper treatment, the infection can spread to the toenails or other areas of the body. Persistent symptoms may also make walking and other daily activities uncomfortable. Identifying the infection early allows treatment to begin before the condition becomes more difficult to manage.

A podiatrist can diagnose athlete's foot by examining the affected skin and determining whether additional testing is needed. Professional treatment focuses on eliminating the fungal infection, relieving symptoms, and helping prevent complications. If the infection has spread or continues to return, a podiatrist can recommend more advanced treatment options based on the severity of the condition. Early podiatry care may also reduce the risk of long-term skin or nail problems. If itching, peeling, or burning skin on your feet is affecting your comfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Kinna Patel, DPM from Sava Podiatry & Wellness Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.

Heel pain can make it difficult to stay active and enjoy everyday activities. The discomfort can develop gradually or begin after an injury. Pain is often felt on the bottom or back of the heel and can become worse with the first few steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for a long time. Several conditions can cause heel pain, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon injuries, and heel bursitis. Bursitis is inflammation of a fluid-filled sac that cushions joints and tendons. Standing for long periods, repeated stress, and wearing shoes that lack proper support also can increase pressure on the heel. Identifying the exact cause of the pain is important because different conditions require different treatments.

A podiatrist performs a detailed examination to determine why the heel hurts and how the condition affects foot function. The evaluation includes checking the heel for tenderness, swelling, and range of motion. The podiatrist also examines the foot's structure and observes how the patient stands and walks because changes in movement can increase stress on the heel. Imaging tests, like X-rays or ultrasound, provide additional information when a fracture, tendon injury, or another condition is suspected. Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of soft tissues, including tendons and ligaments. An accurate diagnosis allows the podiatrist to develop a treatment plan that matches the patient's condition and activity level.

Treatment focuses on relieving pain while improving foot function and reducing stress on the heel. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotics to improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly across the foot. Care also includes guided stretching and strengthening exercises that improve flexibility and support the muscles and tendons of the foot and ankle. The podiatrist can recommend shoes that fit properly and provide good support to reduce strain while walking. Patients with severe heel pain that does not improve with conservative treatment can benefit from surgery in selected cases. If you have symptoms of heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

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.