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Many people may take their foot health for granted, however it is extremely important to take care of your feet in order to prevent issues from arising. Not only can podiatrists help to prevent problems, their extensive knowledge on the feet allows for them to specialize and target their treatments in a more advanced manner as compared to a general practitioner. Podiatrists can help diagnose, treat, and rehabilitate foot related issues, including bunions, heel pain, bone fractures, fungal infections, and ingrown toenails. Podiatrists can also help patients find the proper orthotics to provide support for their feet. Additionally, they can help provide self-care and preventative tips, especially for patients with conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. If you are experiencing any issues with the feet, or you want to get ahead of any potential issues, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

If you are experiencing pain in the feet or ankles, don’t join the stubborn majority refusing treatment. Feel free to 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.

What Is a Podiatrist?

Someone would seek the care of a podiatrist if they have suffered a foot injury or have common foot ailments such as heal spurs, bunions, arch problems, deformities, ingrown toenails, corns, foot and ankle problems, etc.

Podiatric Treatment

A podiatrist will treat the problematic areas of the feet, ankle or lower leg by prescribing the following:

• Physical therapy
• Drugs
• Orthotic inserts or soles
• Surgery on lower extremity fractures

A common podiatric procedure a podiatrist will use is a scanner or force plate which will allow the podiatrist to know the designs of orthotics. Patients are then told to follow a series of tasks to complete the treatment. The computer will scan the foot a see which areas show weight distribution and pressure points. The podiatrist will read the analysis and then determine which treatment plans are available.

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.

People living with diabetes must give special attention to their feet to prevent serious complications. High blood sugar can reduce circulation and nerve sensitivity, increasing the risk of infection, ulcers, and slow-healing wounds. Daily inspection is key. Look for redness, blisters, or any change in skin color or temperature. Keep feet clean and moisturized, but avoid applying lotion between the toes where excess moisture can cause irritation. Wearing properly fitted shoes and seamless socks help protect sensitive skin from friction and pressure. Regular visits to a podiatrist allow early detection of minor problems before they become major concerns. Simple habits such as trimming toenails carefully, managing blood sugar, and avoiding walking barefoot can make a significant difference. Consistent diabetic foot care is necessary for comfort, mobility, and overall health. For personalized guidance, it is suggested that you schedule a diabetic foot examination with a podiatrist, who can help you to manage this serious condition.

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 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.

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 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.

Swollen feet are a common problem that can affect people of all ages. The reasons may range from temporary fluid buildup in hot weather or pregnancy to more serious health concerns that involve circulation or injury. The medical term for swelling caused by trapped fluid is edema. It often appears in the feet and ankles, causing stretched skin and dimpling when pressed. Injuries like ankle sprains can also lead to sudden swelling, restricting mobility, and causing pain. In pregnancy, swelling may occur gradually, but if it becomes severe and sudden, it could signal preeclampsia, a condition that requires immediate medical care. Prolonged standing or wearing shoes that lack adequate support can also contribute to swelling of the feet. A podiatrist can carefully evaluate the feet to determine the underlying cause and provide treatment to protect long-term foot health. If you suffer from excessive or unusual swelling in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. 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.

Swollen feet are a common ailment among pregnant women and people who stand or sit for extended periods. Aging may increase the possibility of swollen feet and patients who are obese often notice when their feet are swelling too. There may be medical reasons why swollen feet occur:

• Phlebitis - A condition that causes the veins to become inflamed and can also cause leg pain.
• Liver disease - This may lead to low blood levels of albumin which is a protein. This can cause fluid in the blood to pass into the tissues and several areas of the body can become swollen.
• Heart failure - When the heart doesn’t pump properly the blood that is normally pumped back to the heart can pool in the veins of the legs causing swollen feet.
• Kidney disease - One of the main functions of the kidneys is releasing excess fluid in the body. This type of condition can make it difficult for the kidneys to function properly, and as a result the feet may become swollen.
• Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT)- This is a serious condition where blood clots form in the veins of the legs. They can block the return of blood from the legs to the heart which may cause the feet to swell. It is important to be treated by a podiatrist if this condition is present.

Swollen feet can also be caused by bone and tendon conditions, including fractures, arthritis, and tendinitis. Additionally, there may be skin and toenail conditions and an infection may cause the feet to swell. Patients who take medicine to treat high blood pressure may be prone to getting swollen feet. 

Many patients elevate their feet to help relieve the swelling and this is generally a temporary remedy. When a podiatrist is consulted the reason behind the swelling can be uncovered and subsequently treated.

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.

Fungal infections are a frequent problem for people with active lifestyles, and one of the most well-known is commonly called athlete’s foot. This condition often develops in warm, damp spaces such as gym locker rooms, community showers, or inside shoes that trap moisture. The infection usually begins between the toes and may cause itching, burning, redness, or peeling skin. In some cases, the problem can spread to the toenails, creating thickened or brittle nails that are harder to treat. Preventive steps include wearing breathable socks, rotating shoes to let them dry fully, and never walking barefoot in public facilities. Mild antifungal creams often bring relief, but stubborn or recurrent cases may require prescription medication. If you notice ongoing irritation or scaling on your feet that does not improve, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with Naim G. Shaheed, DPM from Ankle and Foot Centers of Georgia. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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.