Items filtered by date: September 2023

Heel pain is a common ailment that can disrupt daily life and activities. One of the primary culprits is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the thick band of tissue known as the plantar fascia becomes inflamed or irritated. The plantar fascia is found on the bottom of the foot, and connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis often results from overuse, wearing improper footwear, or a sudden increase in physical activity. Another common cause of heel pain is Achilles tendonitis, which affects the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel, usually as a result of excessive strain or overuse. To alleviate heel pain, it is beneficial to rest and elevate the affected foot. Wearing proper footwear with adequate arch support can significantly help, in addition to wearing custom orthotic inserts. Performing stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon also can aid in recovery. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. If you are experiencing heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the cause and offer treatment options that are right for you.

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact Nrup Tolat, DPM of Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. 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 offices located in Woodstock and Atlanta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

As we age, the risk of falls in our homes becomes a growing concern. The good news is that with a few thoughtful modifications, you can transform your living space into a safe haven for elderly family members. This can begin by decluttering walkways, ensuring clear, unobstructed paths, followed by removing tripping hazards such as loose rugs and electrical cords. Installing handrails and grab bars which can provide essential support, is critical in bathrooms and staircases. Adequate lighting is vital, and dimly lit areas can be brightened, in addition to adding nightlights which can reduce the risk of stumbling in the dark. Consider anti-slip flooring options to improve traction. In the bathroom, invest in a shower chair and non-slip mats to prevent accidents. Regular maintenance of your home's infrastructure, including checking for loose floorboards or uneven surfaces, is also important. If you would like additional information about effective methods to keep your home safe for senior family members, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Nrup Tolat, DPM from Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Bunions, those painful bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, can be a source of immense discomfort and self-consciousness. When conservative measures fail to provide relief, bunion surgery may become a viable option. Medically known as a bunionectomy, this surgical procedure aims to correct the misalignment of the big toe joint, eliminating pain and improving foot function. During the surgery, the podiatrist will remove the bony bump and realign the bones and tissues to their proper position. Recovery may take several weeks, during which weight must be kept off the affected foot. It is important to follow post-operative care instructions diligently. While bunion surgery is a significant step, it offers a promising path toward a life free from the pain and inconvenience of bunions, allowing you to walk comfortably and confidently once again. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can determine if surgery is correct for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Nrup Tolat, DPM of Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Achilles tendonitis is a painful condition affecting the Achilles tendon which is found at the back of the ankle. Achilles tendinitis is characterized by inflammation and irritation of the Achilles tendon, leading to discomfort during movement. Common symptoms can include pain and stiffness near the heel, often worsening after physical activity. Overuse and repetitive stress are primary culprits, frequently affecting athletes and those who engage in intense physical activities. Having tight calf muscles, wearing improper footwear, and sudden increases in exercise intensity can also contribute to getting an Achilles tendon injury.  Managing Achilles tendinitis involves rest, compression, and elevation, along with performing gentle stretching and strengthening exercises. Severe cases may require medical intervention, and it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and tailor a treatment plan that is right for you.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Nrup Tolat, DPM of Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

• Inflammation
• Dull to severe pain
• Increased blood flow to the tendon
• Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

• Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
• Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

• Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
• Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Woodstock and Atlanta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.