Items filtered by date: May 2024

Calluses and corns on the feet are skin conditions that develop as a protective response to prolonged friction and pressure. Although they might appear similar, there are key differences between them. Calluses are broad, evenly thickened areas of skin that typically form on the soles of the feet. They can arise from activities that place repeated stress on this area, such as walking or running in poorly fitting shoes. Calluses have a hard, yellowish appearance and can cause discomfort or pain, making it difficult to walk. In contrast, corns are smaller, more concentrated areas of thickened skin, usually found on the tops and sides of toes. They develop due to the pressure and friction from wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes. Corns feature a dense, central core and can be either hard or soft. Hard corns appear on the bony parts of the toes, while soft corns develop between the toes where moisture keeps them pliable. Both corns and calluses can cause significant pain and discomfort and can lead to infection if not properly managed. Persistent or painful corns and calluses may warrant medical attention. If corns or calluses on your feet are causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for targeted treatment. 

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Nrup Tolat, DPM of Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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.

Poor circulation in the feet and lower legs can be caused by several common health issues that impact blood flow. One of these health issues is peripheral artery disease, or PAD, where arteries narrow due to plaque buildup. This reduces blood supply to the lower limbs and feet. Diabetes can also contribute to circulation problems because changing blood sugar levels damages blood vessels, reducing their ability to transport blood efficiently. Obesity can also contribute by putting strain on the circulatory system, and sedentary lifestyles further hinder blood flow. Smoking is another major risk factor for poor circulation in the feet, as it causes constriction and hardening of the arteries. Symptoms of poor circulation include cold feet, numbness, tingling, swelling, and in severe cases, pain and skin color changes. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist, or foot doctor, can help you manage and mitigate the effects of poor circulation. If you have any symptoms of poor circulation in the feet, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist for care. 

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Nrup Tolat, DPM of Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness   
• Numbness or cramping in the legs 
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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.

There are several common causes of heel pain in adults, the most prevalent being plantar fasciitis. This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed due to overuse or stress. Heel spurs, bony growths that develop on the heel bone, are another common culprit of heel pain. Heel spurs often develop as a response to plantar fasciitis or excessive strain on foot muscles and ligaments. Another common cause of heel pain is Achilles tendonitis, which involves inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscle to the heel. Athletes and active people are particularly prone to this condition. Other factors contributing to heel pain can include wearing poorly fitting or inadequate shoes, obesity, and standing for long durations. Effective treatment often involves rest, proper footwear, and orthotics to alleviate pain and address the underlying cause. Regular visits to a podiatrist are key for relief from heel pain. If you have heel pain, whether it is new or chronic, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. 

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.

An ankle fracture occurs when one or more bones in the ankle break due to excessive force or trauma. Understanding its causes and symptoms is essential for prompt diagnosis and effective treatment. These types of fractures often result from sudden twists, falls, or direct impacts during activities like sports or accidents. Symptoms typically include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty bearing weight on the affected ankle. You may also notice deformity or instability in the joint. These signs indicate the need for immediate medical attention to prevent further damage and complications. Ankle fractures can vary in severity, ranging from hairline cracks to complete breaks, requiring different treatment approaches such as immobilization, casting, or surgery. Ignoring or neglecting these injuries can lead to long-term issues such as chronic pain, arthritis, and reduced mobility. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you promptly visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat broken ankles.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact Nrup Tolat, DPM from Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
•  Swelling around the area
•  Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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.