Items filtered by date: July 2024

Enhancing foot circulation is critical for overall foot health and can be achieved through several practical methods. Elevating the feet above heart level helps facilitate blood flow back to the heart, reducing swelling and promoting circulation. Managing stress levels is beneficial, as stress constricts blood vessels, impacting circulation negatively. Compression stockings provide gentle pressure that aids blood return from the feet to the heart, especially useful for those who stand or sit for long periods. Regular stretching exercises, such as ankle circles and toe curls, stimulate circulation and maintain flexibility in the feet and ankles. Incorporating daily walks or light aerobic exercises improves cardiovascular health, enhancing overall circulation throughout the body, including the feet. If you have symptoms of poor foot circulation, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. 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

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

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 care needs.

A Lisfranc foot injury involves damage to the midfoot, specifically the Lisfranc joint, which connects the forefoot and the arch. This injury can occur from a direct blow to the foot or from twisting or falling, leading to fractures or ligament tears. Symptoms of a Lisfranc injury include swelling, bruising, and significant pain in the midfoot, often exacerbated by standing or walking. The top of the foot may appear swollen, and there can be difficulty bearing weight. Misdiagnosis or delayed treatment can lead to chronic pain and instability. Prompt medical attention from a podiatrist is critical for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan, which may include immobilization or surgery to ensure proper healing and restore function to the affected foot. If you have this type of foot fracture, it is suggested that you are under the care of this type of doctor who can offer you the best treatment solution.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, 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 Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome causes significant ankle pain, resulting from the compression of the posterior tibial nerve within the tarsal tunnel. This narrow space on the inside of the ankle acts as a passageway for nerves, tendons, and blood vessels between the foot and the back of the leg. Compression of the tarsal tunnel can lead to burning or tingling sensations, numbness, and sharp, shooting pain along the path of the tibial nerve. Causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include trauma, systemic diseases, or other factors, though in many cases, the exact cause remains unknown. Diagnosis by a podiatrist typically involves a combination of patient history, clinical examination, nerve conduction studies, and imaging techniques to accurately assess the extent and origin of the nerve entrapment. Conservative treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications and rest. In more severe cases, surgery may be suggested as a way to alleviate the symptoms. Early treatment can help to prevent the progression of tarsal tunnel syndrome and avoid permanent nerve damage. If you are experiencing pain on the inside of the ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
• Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
• At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

• Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
• The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
• If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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.

Peripheral neuropathy results from damage to the peripheral nerves, which transmit signals between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. This damage often leads to numbness, tingling, burning, and sharp pain in the feet. Diabetic neuropathy occurs in individuals with diabetes as a result of prolonged high blood sugar levels that damage the nerves. Symptoms in the feet may include a loss of sensation, making it difficult to detect injuries or a feeling of wearing tight socks when barefoot. These symptoms can significantly impact balance and mobility, increasing the risk of falls and infections. Proper management of blood sugar levels, in addition to medications and lifestyle changes, may help to alleviate symptoms of neuropathy. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

Neuropathy

Neuropathy can be a potentially serious condition, especially if it is left undiagnosed. If you have any concerns that you may be experiencing nerve loss in your feet, consult with Nrup Tolat, DPM from Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment for neuropathy.

What Is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy is a condition that leads to damage to the nerves in the body. Peripheral neuropathy, or neuropathy that affects your peripheral nervous system, usually occurs in the feet. Neuropathy can be triggered by a number of different causes. Such causes include diabetes, infections, cancers, disorders, and toxic substances.

Symptoms of Neuropathy Include:

• Numbness
• Sensation loss
• Prickling and tingling sensations
• Throbbing, freezing, burning pains
• Muscle weakness

Those with diabetes are at serious risk due to being unable to feel an ulcer on their feet. Diabetics usually also suffer from poor blood circulation. This can lead to the wound not healing, infections occurring, and the limb may have to be amputated.

Treatment

To treat neuropathy in the foot, podiatrists will first diagnose the cause of the neuropathy. Figuring out the underlying cause of the neuropathy will allow the podiatrist to prescribe the best treatment, whether it be caused by diabetes, toxic substance exposure, infection, etc. If the nerve has not died, then it’s possible that sensation may be able to return to the foot.

Pain medication may be issued for pain. Electrical nerve stimulation can be used to stimulate nerves. If the neuropathy is caused from pressure on the nerves, then surgery may be necessary.

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.

Pickleball, a fast-paced sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, often leads to foot injuries among players. The most common injuries include plantar fasciitis, characterized by pain in the heel or arch due to inflammation of the plantar fascia. Achilles tendonitis is another frequent issue, involving pain and stiffness in the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel. Ankle sprains are prevalent as well, occurring when the foot twists unnaturally during quick lateral movements. Stress fractures can also develop from repetitive impact on the feet. Preventing these injuries involves wearing proper footwear with good arch support, warming up before playing, and incorporating strength and flexibility exercises into a regular fitness routine. If you have injured your foot while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer appropriate treatment solutions, and educate you on effective prevention techniques.

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 Nrup Tolat, DPM from Atlanta Total Foot & Ankle Care. 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 offices located in Woodstock and Atlanta, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.