Items filtered by date: April 2025

A foot ulcer may begin as something as minor as contact dermatitis, which is a red, itchy rash caused by irritation from a new shoe material, soap, or lotion. This kind of skin reaction can lead to scratching or open sores, which may worsen if not properly treated. In individuals with diabetes or poor circulation, the skin may not heal quickly, allowing bacteria to enter and cause infection. What starts as a harmless rash or scrape can turn into a deep ulcer, exposing underlying tissue and putting the foot at risk for serious complications. Early symptoms such as redness, oozing, or pain should never be ignored. Monitoring changes in skin condition is essential to prevent ulcers from forming. If you have a persistent foot rash, sore, or wound that is not improving, it is suggested you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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.

Heel pain can affect individuals of all ages. It is not tied to your level of activity, but often stems from conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, or bursitis. Plantar fasciitis, a leading cause of heel pain, occurs when the ligament supporting the foot’s arch becomes inflamed due to overuse or stress. The pain is often sharp, especially with the first few steps in the morning. Heel spurs, which are bony growths on the heel, can develop from prolonged strain on the foot. Achilles tendonitis causes pain at the back of the heel where the tendon connects to the calf muscle, often triggered by repetitive activity or poor footwear. Bursitis, inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs cushioning the heel, can also cause discomfort. A podiatrist can help identify the underlying cause of your heel pain through physical exams and diagnostic imaging like X-rays. Treatment may include rest, targeted exercises, orthotics, or even surgical options for severe cases. If you are experiencing ongoing heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

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

Cuboid syndrome is a condition that occurs when the cuboid bone in the foot becomes misaligned or partially dislocated, often due to overuse or injury. The cuboid is a small bone located on the outer side of the foot, near the middle, and plays a key role in foot stability and movement. Pain from cuboid syndrome is typically felt along the outer edge of the foot and may extend into the arch or toward the toes. The discomfort can be sharp or aching and often worsens with walking, running, or standing for long periods. Causes may include repetitive strain, wearing improper footwear, or sudden twisting motions. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat cuboid syndrome.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joints and ligaments near the cuboid bone in the foot become torn. If you have cuboid syndrome, 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.

Cuboid syndrome is a common cause of lateral foot pain, which is pain on the outside of the foot. The condition may happen suddenly due to an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly overtime from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures.

Causes

The most common causes of cuboid syndrome include:

• Injury – The most common cause of this ailment is an ankle sprain.
• Repetitive Strain – Tension placed through the peroneus longus muscle from repetitive activities such as jumping and running may cause excessive traction on the bone causing it to sublux.
• Altered Foot Biomechanics – Most people suffering from cuboid subluxation have flat feet.

Symptoms

A common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain along the outside of the foot which can be felt in the ankle and toes. This pain may create walking difficulties and may cause those with the condition to walk with a limp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of cuboid syndrome is often difficult, and it is often misdiagnosed. X-rays, MRIs and CT scans often fail to properly show the cuboid subluxation. Although there isn’t a specific test used to diagnose cuboid syndrome, your podiatrist will usually check if pain is felt while pressing firmly on the cuboid bone of your foot.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are ice therapy, rest, exercise, taping, and orthotics.

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.

When it comes to improving heart health, we often think about diet and cardio workouts. But what is happening below your ankles can also play a surprising role. Studies show that when exercise is paired with custom foot orthotics, the benefits extend beyond muscle tone and endurance. People experience better balance in their cardiovascular system, including more stable blood pressure and improved patterns in heart rate responses. Proper support from custom orthotics helps align the body during movement, reducing physical stress and promoting more efficient circulation. This combination encourages healthier signals between the heart and the nervous system, supporting overall wellness. If you have been working hard to improve your fitness but still struggle with issues like fatigue, lightheadedness, or inconsistent blood pressure, it could be time to look at your feet. For a tailored solution that supports your entire body, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for an evaluation and personalized treatment.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, 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.

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 Smyrna, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s foot bumps are small, itchy, and sometimes painful raised areas on the skin caused by a fungal infection known as tinea pedis. This condition thrives in warm and moist environments, making feet a common target. People who frequently wear tight or non-breathable shoes are at higher risk, as sweat and heat create the perfect setting for fungal growth. Walking barefoot in public places, such as locker rooms, areas around swimming pools, and communal showers, increases exposure to the fungus. Individuals with weakened immune systems or underlying conditions like diabetes may be more susceptible. Sharing footwear or towels with an infected person can also spread the infection. If you notice bumps on your feet that are itchy, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat athlete’s foot.

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.