Items filtered by date: September 2023

Pickleball, a popular sport combining elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, has gained a dedicated following in recent years. However, like any physical activity, it carries the risk of injuries, and one of the most common being plantar fasciitis. This is a painful condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot. The repetitive motions, quick lateral movements, and sudden stops and starts in pickleball can put immense strain on the plantar fascia. Over time, this strain can lead to tiny tears in the tissue, resulting in pain and discomfort, often most pronounced in the heel. Preventing plantar fasciitis in pickleball involves practicing proper warm-up routines, wearing appropriate footwear, and performing regular calf and Achilles tendon stretches. If injury strikes, resting and taking anti-inflammatory medications may help alleviate symptoms. Seeking professional guidance from a podiatrist is crucial for a tailored recovery plan, which may include exercises to strengthen the foot and improve biomechanics. By being proactive about injury prevention and prompt treatment, pickleball enthusiasts can continue enjoying this fun sport while minimizing the risk of plantar fasciitis and other common injuries. If you have heel pain from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional relief and treatment methods.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM of Choice Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to make contact with the ground. Running with flat feet may seem challenging, but with the right approach, it is entirely possible. To begin, it is important to understand your unique gait and foot biomechanics. Flat-footed runners often overpronate, which means their feet roll excessively inward during each stride. Choosing running shoes with adequate arch support and stability can help correct this issue and reduce the risk of injuries. In addition to wearing proper footwear, it is beneficial to focus on strengthening the muscles in your feet, ankles, and calves through targeted exercises. Pay attention to your running form and aim for shorter, more frequent strides to minimize impact. Gradually increase your mileage and incorporate rest days that can allow your body to adapt. Running with flat feet can be enjoyable and injury-free with the right care and attention. If you have flat feet, and would like more information about how to maximize your running experience, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking. 

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM from Choice Podiatry Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heels. They are visible on X-rays, and can protrude up to half an inch. While heel spurs themselves are generally not painful, they often accompany conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, which also lead to heel discomfort. These spurs can be caused by overstretching the tissue connecting the heel and the ball of the foot or by the gradual wear and tear of the protective membrane covering the heel bone. To prevent heel spurs, it is important to wear well fitting shoes, maintain a healthy weight, and have a gait, or walking style check. Treatment options may include stretching exercises or taping to alleviate stress on muscles and tendons. Wearing shoe inserts or orthotic devices for additional support and comfort may also help. If you have a heel spur, and especially if it is associated with pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM from Choice Podiatry Center. Our doctor will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

If you have any questions feel free to contact our office located in Marietta, GA . We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.

Clubfoot, a congenital condition, impacts the development of a newborn's foot or feet, leading to an abnormal position. The foot is turned inward and downward, resembling the shape of a golf club, hence the name. While the exact cause is not always clear, both genetic and environmental factors can play a role. During pregnancy, abnormal positioning of the baby's feet in the womb can contribute to developing clubfoot. Early treatment of this condition is important and generally begins within weeks of birth. The Ponseti method, a non-surgical approach involving gentle manipulation and casting, is a common treatment. Braces are used to maintain correction after the casting phase. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Timely intervention and comprehensive treatment enable children with clubfoot to lead active, fulfilling lives. If your child has been born with clubfoot, it is strongly suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can determine what the best course of treatment is to pursue.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact Vivian C. Iwu, DPM of Choice Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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