Toenail fungus is a common infection that affects the nail and the skin underneath it, often caused by dermatophyte organisms that thrive in warm and moist environments. It usually appears as a thickened, discolored nail that may turn yellow, white, or brown, and can become brittle or crumbly over time. Some people notice a mild odor or separation of the nail from the nail bed. The condition develops when fungi enter through small cracks in the nail or surrounding skin, often in places like locker rooms or public pool areas. It is difficult to treat because the infection sits deep under the nail, making it hard for topical products to reach. A podiatrist can confirm the diagnosis, trim and thin the nail, and provide advanced treatments to target the infection effectively. If you have developed toenail fungus, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can effectively treat this condition, which often includes prescribed medication.

For more information about treatment, 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.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a condition that affects many people and can be especially hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating and avoiding it.

Antifungals & Deterrence

Oral antifungal medicine has been shown to be effective in many cases. It is important to consult with a podiatrist to determine the proper regiment for you, or potentially explore other options.

Applying foot powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – Wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well.

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.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that develops when uric acid builds up in the body and forms sharp crystals in the joints. Gout commonly affects the big toe, but it can also affect the ankle and other foot joints. A gout flare usually begins suddenly causing intense pain and swelling. Redness, warmth, and tenderness may also occur. Even light pressure from a shoe or bed sheet can cause discomfort. Gout flares can last for several days, and may return if the condition is not properly managed. Risk factors include kidney problems, obesity, and alcohol use. Sugary drinks and joint injuries are other factors. A podiatrist can diagnose gout through an exam, imaging studies, and laboratory testing. Treatment includes reducing inflammation, protecting the affected joint, and helping prevent future flare-ups that can damage the joints. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for help in managing this painful condition.

Gout is a foot condition that requires certain treatment and care. If you are seeking treatment, contact Kinna Patel, DPM from Sava Podiatry & Wellness Centers. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. It often develops in the foot, especially the big toe area, although it can manifest in other parts of the body as well. Gout can make walking and standing very painful and is especially common in diabetics and the obese.

People typically get gout because of a poor diet. Genetic predisposition is also a factor. The children of parents who have had gout frequently have a chance of developing it themselves.

Gout can easily be identified by redness and inflammation of the big toe and the surrounding areas of the foot. Other symptoms include extreme fatigue, joint pain, and running high fevers. Sometimes corticosteroid drugs can be prescribed to treat gout, but the best way to combat this disease is to get more exercise and eat a better diet.

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.

In-toeing is a walking pattern in which the feet turn inward instead of pointing straight ahead. One common cause is metatarsus adductus. This condition develops in infancy when the foot is positioned inward while in the uterus. It can also appear later in childhood due to inward twisting of the shinbone. This may give the appearance of the toes pointing toward each other during walking. Risk factors include family history and developmental positioning. Symptoms include frequent tripping, uneven walking, or noticeable inward foot alignment. Many cases improve with growth, but some may need evaluation. A podiatrist can assess walking patterns and recommend guidance or treatment if needed. If you notice signs of in-toeing in your child, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you to monitor this condition while supporting comfortable movement.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, 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.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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.

Cracked heels refer to dry, thickened skin on the feet that splits due to pressure and lack of moisture. This condition can be more serious for individuals with diabetes, as nerve damage in the feet may reduce sensation and delay awareness of injury. Symptoms often include flaky skin, visible fissures, inflammation, and varying levels of pain from mild discomfort to severe tenderness. In advanced cases, ulcers may develop and increase the risk of infection. Risk factors include poor circulation, prolonged standing, improper footwear, and unmanaged blood sugar levels. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity, provide treatment, and prevent complications through specialized care. Seeking professional attention early can protect foot health and overall well-being. If you have diabetes and have developed cracked heels, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can provide effective treatment solutions, which may include prescribed medication.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, 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.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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.