People with diabetes can develop several serious foot problems because high blood sugar can damage nerves and reduce blood flow to the feet. Nerve damage can make it hard to feel pain, heat, or cuts on the skin. A person might step on something sharp or develop a blister without noticing it. Reduced blood flow slows healing and raises the risk of infection. Common diabetic foot problems include numbness, burning pain, and tingling sensations in the feet. Diabetes also increases the risk of dry skin, cracked heels, and thick calluses.

Any small cuts or cracks in the skin can turn into open sores, called ulcers. These wounds can become infected and lead to severe tissue damage when left untreated. Some infections spread into deeper skin layers and bone, which can make standing or walking very painful. Changes in foot shape can also develop because weak muscles and damaged nerves affect how the feet support body weight. People with diabetes sometimes develop hammertoes, bunions, or collapsed arches. Ingrown toenails and fungal nail infections are also common because poor circulation affects skin and nail health.

A podiatrist can examine the feet for signs of nerve damage and poor circulation. Treatment includes removing thickened skin, caring for wounds, and recommending diabetic-friendly shoes that reduce pressure on painful areas. A podiatrist can also provide custom orthotics to improve balance and protect sensitive skin. Regular foot exams are important because early treatment can help prevent more serious complications. Daily foot checks at home are also helpful for finding cuts, redness, swelling, or skin changes before they become severe. Diabetes-related foot problems can worsen quickly when ignored, especially when infections develop. If you have foot problems linked to diabetes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment options.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Donovan Gowdie, DPM from The Foot & Ankle Treatment Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

A fracture of the fifth metatarsal is a break in the long bone on the outer side of the foot. This injury is common in athletes and dancers because of repeated stress, quick direction changes, and high impact activity. It may appear as pain along the outer foot, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking or placing weight on the foot. Some fractures happen suddenly from a twist or fall, while others develop gradually from overuse. Because this area has a limited blood supply, proper evaluation is important for healing. A podiatrist can identify the type of fracture with imaging and determine the best course of treatment. Care may include immobilization or surgical support to ensure proper alignment and recovery. If you have a foot fracture, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer the treatment that is best for you.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Donovan Gowdie, DPM from The Foot & Ankle Treatment Center. 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 office located in Watkinsville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity that causes one or more toes to bend abnormally at the middle joint, creating a curled or hammer-like appearance. Hammertoe most commonly affects the second toe, and may begin as a flexible deformity before becoming stiff and difficult to straighten. Patients often experience pain, corns, or calluses from the toe rubbing against footwear. The top of the toe may appear red or swollen, and discomfort can increase while walking or standing for long periods of time. Hammertoe may develop because of muscle imbalance, arthritis, or injury. Shoes that crowd the toes and place pressure on the joints can also be a factor. The deformity can worsen and affect balance or foot function. A podiatrist can evaluate the alignment of the toes and determine the severity of the condition. Treatment may include wearing wider footwear, targeted exercises, or splinting. In more advanced cases, surgery can help to improve toe position and reduce discomfort. If you have hammertoe pain or deformity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for appropriate treatment solutions.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Donovan Gowdie, DPM of The Foot & Ankle Treatment Center. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

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

Flexible flat feet occur when the arch appears low while standing, but becomes more visible when the foot is lifted or not bearing weight. Some people have no symptoms, while others experience fatigue, foot pain, or discomfort during activity. In certain cases, targeted exercise can help improve support and movement by strengthening the muscles that influence foot position and overall lower body function. Treatment is not always limited to the foot itself, since weakness in the legs or hips may also affect alignment and how pressure moves through the feet during walking. A podiatrist can evaluate gait, foot structure, and muscle function to determine whether strengthening exercises may be helpful as part of treatment. Supportive care may also include shoe guidance or custom inserts when needed. If you have painful or symptomatic flat feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist for appropriate relief and management solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Donovan Gowdie, DPM from The Foot & Ankle Treatment 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 Watkinsville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.