Items filtered by date: November 2024

Poorly fitting ski boots can lead to foot pain, turning a fun day on the slopes into an uncomfortable experience. When the boot shape does not match your foot, pressure points develop, causing soreness and even bruising. An incorrect flex level can also strain the feet, with overly stiff boots restricting movement, and softer boots failing to offer needed support. Worn-out or packed-down soles worsen stability, increasing the risk of pain or injury. Improperly buckling the boots or wearing thick socks can also add unnecessary pressure, compressing the foot and restricting circulation. Choosing thinner, moisture-wicking socks helps with warmth and comfort without extra bulk. If you are having trouble with foot pain from your ski boots, a podiatrist can assist in helping you select the right ski boots, and perhaps provide custom orthotics to improve fit and support.

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

Caregivers play a critical role in assisting diabetic patients with foot care, significantly impacting ulcer prevention and overall health management. Daily foot checks are essential to catch early signs of problems like cuts, blisters, or calluses, which can quickly worsen in diabetic individuals. By regularly inspecting feet, caregivers help detect issues before they escalate, preventing complications that could lead to ulcers or infections. Education is another key aspect. Caregivers can reinforce proper foot care practices, including washing, moisturizing, and avoiding tight shoes. They may also assist with wound care, ensuring any cuts or sores are cleaned, dressed, and monitored. If you have diabetes, it is suggested that you ask for help, even from an informal caregiver, and schedule regular visits to a podiatrist for professional evaluations, toenail care, and customized care.

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 and ankle needs.

Athlete's foot, a common fungal infection, primarily affects the skin between the toes and on the soles of the feet. It thrives in warm and moist environments, making communal areas like pools and locker rooms prime breeding grounds. The main causes include direct contact with the fungus, damp socks, and poor foot hygiene. Symptoms typically include itching, burning, and peeling skin, in additon to redness and cracking, which can lead to more severe complications if untreated. Individuals may also experience blisters and a persistent odor. A podiatrist can effectively diagnose and treat athlete's foot. They may prescribe antifungal medications, recommend proper foot care routines, and provide advice on footwear to prevent future infections. In some cases, they might suggest lifestyle changes to minimize exposure to the fungus. If you are experiencing symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for tailored advice and treatment.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Kinna Patel, DPM from Sava Podiatry & Wellness Centers.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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 and ankle needs.

Diabetic foot ulcers occur due to a combination of poor circulation and nerve damage, making even minor injuries prone to infection. Wound care materials vary depending on the type and severity, or grade, of the ulcer. For superficial ulcers, Grade 1, foam dressings and hydrocolloid dressings are commonly used, as they maintain a moist environment and promote healing. For deeper Grade 2 ulcers, alginate dressings, which absorb excess wound fluid, are beneficial, along with silver-infused materials to prevent infection. More severe ulcers, Grades 3 or 4, often require advanced wound care, including negative pressure wound therapy to promote tissue regeneration, and bioengineered skin substitutes to cover exposed bone or tendons. Debridement, the removal of dead tissue, is often necessary to prevent further infection. Proper care and regular monitoring are imperative to healing diabetic foot ulcers and avoiding complications like infection or amputation. If you have any type of diabetic foot ulcer, it is strongly suggested that you include a podiatrist on your health care team for proper care.

Wound care is an important part in dealing with diabetes. If you have diabetes and a foot wound or would like more information about wound care for diabetics, 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.

What Is Wound Care?

Wound care is the practice of taking proper care of a wound. This can range from the smallest to the largest of wounds. While everyone can benefit from proper wound care, it is much more important for diabetics. Diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation which causes wounds to heal much slower than they would in a non-diabetic. 

What Is the Importance of Wound Care?

While it may not seem apparent with small ulcers on the foot, for diabetics, any size ulcer can become infected. Diabetics often also suffer from neuropathy, or nerve loss. This means they might not even feel when they have an ulcer on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to properly care for any and all foot wounds.

How to Care for Wounds

The best way to care for foot wounds is to prevent them. For diabetics, this means daily inspections of the feet for any signs of abnormalities or ulcers. It is also recommended to see a podiatrist several times a year for a foot inspection. If you do have an ulcer, run the wound under water to clear dirt from the wound; then apply antibiotic ointment to the wound and cover with a bandage. Bandages should be changed daily and keeping pressure off the wound is smart. It is advised to see a podiatrist, who can keep an eye on it.

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.