November 2019

Many people who are over the age of sixty-five are aware of the injuries that may occur from falling. A broken foot may be a common ailment that can happen as a result of falling. Research has indicated that falls are the leading cause of injuries that elderly people endure. There are measures that can be implemented which may help to reduce the risk of falling. These can include removing worn carpets from the living environment, improving the lighting in the house, and installing grab bars in the toilets and shower area. Additionally, seniors may experience dehydration and poor eating habits, which may lead to reduced strength. These factors can help to increase the risk of falling. It may be beneficial to have frequent eye exams performed. This may help to prevent tripping over objects which may not have been seen. If you would like more information about how falling can affect the feet, please 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 Naim G. Shaheed, DPM from Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. 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 one of our offices located in Lithonia/Stonecrest and Emory/Midtown, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you are experiencing pain on the ball of the foot, it may be indicative of a condition that is referred to as Morton’s neuroma. It is typically caused by irritation that happens to a nerve connected to a toe. It can become thickened, and will most often occur between the second and third toes. It may be common among patients who have flat feet, high arches, or conditions that can include bunions and hammertoes. People who enjoy sporting activities that involve running may also be susceptible to developing this condition. Additionally, skiers or ballerinas may be prone to getting Morton’s neuroma as a result of wearing shoes that put pressure on the ball of the foot. Symptoms that are often associated with this ailment can include a numbing and tingling sensation, and pain or difficulty walking. If you suffer from this condition, please consult with a podiatrist who can properly treat this condition.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact Naim G. Shaheed, DPM of Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lithonia/Stonecrest and Emory/Midtown, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken toe is generally caused by a heavy object falling on it, or if you stub your toe against a heavy piece of furniture. One of the symptoms that may be experienced is immediate pain and discomfort, followed by possible bruising and swelling. Additionally, it may be difficult to move or bend the affected toe, and in severe fractures, the toe may be bent at an abnormal angle. After a proper diagnosis is performed, which typically consists of having an X-ray taken, correct treatment can begin. This can include taping the broken toe to an adjacent toe, which is referred to as buddy taping. This procedure can be helpful in providing adequate support as the healing process occurs. In severe fractures, it may be helpful to wear a boot that can ensure limited mobility as the toe heals. If you have broken your toe, it is strongly advised that you consult with a podiatrist who can begin the correct treatment technique that is right for you.

A broken toe can be very painful and lead to complications if not properly fixed. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Naim G. Shaheed, DPM from Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What to Know About a Broken Toe

Although most people try to avoid foot trauma such as banging, stubbing, or dropping heavy objects on their feet, the unfortunate fact is that it is a common occurrence. Given the fact that toes are positioned in front of the feet, they typically sustain the brunt of such trauma. When trauma occurs to a toe, the result can be a painful break (fracture).

Symptoms of a Broken Toe

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising on the skin and toenail
• The inability to move the toe
• Toe appears crooked or disfigured
• Tingling or numbness in the toe

Generally, it is best to stay off of the injured toe with the affected foot elevated.

Severe toe fractures may be treated with a splint, cast, and in some cases, minor surgery. Due to its position and the pressure it endures with daily activity, future complications can occur if the big toe is not properly treated.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lithonia/Stonecrest and Emory/Midtown, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

A corn can form on different parts of the foot as a result of excess friction. It is defined as a hard, thickened area, and will typically cause severe pain and discomfort. If the shoes that are worn do not fit properly, a corn may form on the inside of the pinky toe. Relief may be found if a pad is worn over the affected area. Additionally, it may help to soak the affected foot in warm water, as this may aid in softening the corn. Afterward, a pumice stone can be used in gently filing the corn to remove any dead skin. When toenails are properly trimmed, pressure may be avoided from the nail touching the skin, and this may help to prevent corns from developing. If you are afflicted with corns, it is suggested that you seek the counsel of a podiatrist who can assist you in choosing the proper treatment.

If you have any concerns regarding your feet and ankles, contact Naim G. Shaheed, DPM of Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns can be described as areas of the skin that have thickened to the point of becoming painful or irritating. They are often layers and layers of the skin that have become dry and rough, and are normally smaller than calluses.

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

• Well-fitting socks
• Comfortable shoes that are not tight around your foot
• Shoes that offer support

Treating Corns
Treatment of corns involves removing the dead skin that has built up in the specific area of the foot. Consult with Our doctor to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Lithonia/Stonecrest and Emory/Midtown, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.