January 2024

The Achilles tendon, a robust fibrous band connecting the calf muscles to the heel bone, plays a pivotal role in facilitating movements like walking and running. Achilles tendon injuries encompass a spectrum of conditions, primarily characterized by inflammation, strain, or, in severe cases, tears within this vital tendon. Such injuries often result from overuse or excessive strain during physical activities, especially those involving sudden acceleration or deceleration. Poorly fitting footwear, inadequate warm-up routines, and abrupt changes in physical activity intensity may contribute to the risk of injury. Additionally, individuals with tight calf muscles or pre-existing foot conditions may find themselves more susceptible to Achilles tendon issues. Recognizing the signs, which may include pain, swelling, and restricted movement, is essential for prompt intervention. If you have endured an Achilles tendon injury, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Naim G. Shaheed, DPM of Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. 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 one of our offices located in Lithonia/Stonecrest and Emory/Midtown, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Hammertoe, a condition where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer, can result from various causes. One major factor is ill-fitting footwear, especially shoes with a tight toe box or high heels, forcing toes into a bent position and causing muscle imbalances. Individuals with longer toes, flat feet, or bunions are more susceptible, as are those with a family history of the condition. Hammertoe symptoms include toe deformity, pain, calluses, swelling, and difficulty in walking. Diagnosis involves a physical exam and X-rays, and treatment options depend on toe flexibility. In early stages, nonsurgical approaches like proper footwear, exercises, and splints can help. Surgery may be necessary if the toe becomes rigid. Early intervention is essential to manage hammertoe effectively. If you have a hammertoe that is causing you discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for the best treatment option for you.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Naim G. Shaheed, DPM from Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please 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.

Ankle sprains, a common injury, often result from the foot turning inward, causing pain, swelling, and tenderness, primarily in the outer ankle area. Diagnosis involves clinical evaluation and sometimes X-rays. Treatment for mild sprains includes protection, rest, compression, and elevation along with early weight bearing. Moderate to severe sprains may require immobilization, and severe cases may need surgery. Inversion injuries typically involve the foot turning inward. It can cause tears in the outer ligaments, beginning with the one in front called the anterior talofibular. Conversely, eversion injuries occur when the foot turns outward, and may result in fractures of the inner ankle bone or ligament injuries. Recurrent sprains can increase the risk of future injuries. Clinical evaluation primarily diagnoses ankle sprains, and stress testing helps assess ligament integrity. X-rays are performed if fractures are suspected. If you feel you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Although ankle sprains are common, they aren’t always minor injuries. If you need your ankle injury looked at, contact Naim G. Shaheed, DPM from Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains are the result of a tear in the ligaments within the ankle. These injuries may happen when you make a rapid shifting movement while your foot is planted. A less common way to sprain your ankle is when your ankle rolls inward while your foot turns outward.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Pain at the sight of the tear
• Bruising/Swelling
• Ankle area is tender to touch
• In severe cases, may hear/feel something tear
• Skin discoloration

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

In many cases, the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevate) is used to treat ankle sprains. However, you should see a podiatrist to see which treatment option would work best with your injury. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

It is important to ask your doctor about rehab options after you receive treatment for your injury. Stretching, strength training, and balance exercises may help the ankle heal while also preventing further 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.

Fungal nail infections, which are known as onychomycosis, are widespread and can affect up to 14 percent of the general population, with toenail infections being more common than fingernails. While usually not severe, they can cause discomfort and affect nail appearance. Symptoms include nail discoloration, thickening, fragility, and separation from the nail bed. Often, fungal toenail infections coincide with fungal skin infections on the foot, such as athlete's foot. These infections result from various environmental fungi entering small cracks in nails or surrounding skin. While anyone can get them, certain factors increase susceptibility, such as nail injuries, diabetes, and weakened immune systems. Prevention measures involve keeping hands and feet clean and dry, maintaining short, clean nails, and avoiding walking barefoot in public areas. Diagnosis requires laboratory testing, with podiatrists typically collecting nail clippings for microscopic examination or laboratory analysis. Effective treatment often involves prescription anti-fungal pills, initiated early. Severe cases may require nail removal. Recurrence is possible, especially in those with underlying health conditions, necessitating prompt attention if symptoms return. If you have toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a prompt evaluation and the correct treatment method.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact Naim G. Shaheed, DPM of Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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.

Foot blisters are defined as fluid-filled sacs that form on the skin, and are often encountered during daily activities or as a result of wearing ill-fitting footwear. They develop as a result of friction or repeated rubbing, which separates the layers of skin, creating a pocket of clear fluid. Several factors can contribute to the formation of foot blisters. Tight or improperly fitting shoes can lead to excessive rubbing, especially while walking or running. Moisture, such as sweat or wet conditions, softens the skin and makes it more prone to blistering. Certain materials consisting of rough socks or shoes, can exacerbate the problem. Additionally, activities that place excessive stress on the feet, like hiking or long-distance running, are common culprits. Understanding the definition and causes of foot blisters can help you take preventive measures. If you have blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can safely treat them and guide you on blister-prevention tactics. 

Blisters may appear as a single bubble or in a cluster. They can cause a lot of pain and may be filled with pus, blood, or watery serum. If your feet are hurting, contact Naim G. Shaheed, DPM of Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Foot Blisters

Foot blisters are often the result of friction. This happens due to the constant rubbing from shoes, which can lead to pain.

What Are Foot Blisters?

A foot blister is a small fluid-filled pocket that forms on the upper-most layer of the skin. Blisters are filled with clear fluid and can lead to blood drainage or pus if the area becomes infected.

Symptoms

(Blister symptoms may vary depending on what is causing them)

• Bubble of skin filled with fluid
• Redness
• Moderate to severe pain
• Itching

Prevention & Treatment

In order to prevent blisters, you should be sure to wear comfortable shoes with socks that cushion your feet and absorb sweat. Breaking a blister open may increase your chances of developing an infection. However, if your blister breaks, you should wash the area with soap and water immediately and then apply a bandage to the affected area. If your blisters cause severe pain it is important that you call your podiatrist right away.

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.