Hammertoe surgery is performed to correct a deformity where a toe bends abnormally at one or more joints, often causing pain, irritation, and difficulty wearing shoes. Surgery becomes necessary when conservative treatments no longer relieve discomfort. There are two main types of procedures, internal fixation and decompression techniques. Internal fixation involves straightening the toe and stabilizing it with small implants. Decompression surgery releases tight tendons or removes a small piece of bone to restore alignment. A podiatrist evaluates the severity of the deformity and recommends the most suitable option for lasting relief. If you have this condition that is interfering with your daily activities, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can discuss the benefits of hammertoe surgery and discuss whether it is right for you.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Mindy J. Trotter, DPM, CWSP of Georgia. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Achilles tendinitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It often develops from overuse, wearing poor footwear, tight calf muscles, or a sudden increase in physical activity. Runners are especially prone to this condition due to repetitive stress on the tendon. Symptoms include stiffness, tenderness, and pain along the back of the heel or lower calf, especially during activity or after rest. A podiatrist can provide a thorough evaluation, recommend custom orthotics, design stretching and strengthening programs, and offer advanced treatments to promote healing and prevent recurrence. If you have pain in your heel or lower calf, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide expert care and lasting relief from Achilles pain.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Mindy J. Trotter, DPM, CWSP 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 our office located in Peachtree City, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Bunions are a common foot deformity that appears as a bony bump at the base of the big toe. They often develop due to genetics, flat feet, arthritis, or prolonged wearing of tight or narrow shoes. Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, and pain that worsens with walking or shoe pressure. As the big toe begins to lean toward the second toe, the base of the toe pushes outward causing a deformity. In mild cases, a podiatrist can help with conservative treatments, such as padding, custom orthotics, footwear modifications, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, when pain becomes constant, mobility is limited, or if the bunion interferes with daily activities, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones and relieve discomfort. A podiatrist will evaluate the severity of the bunion through a physical exam and X-rays and determine whether surgery is needed. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist if a bunion is causing ongoing pain or difficulty with wearing footwear.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Mindy J. Trotter, DPM, CWSP of Georgia. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a frequent problem among men, especially those who wear tight shoes or spend long hours in socks. This fungal infection thrives in warm, moist environments and often begins between the toes, causing itching, burning, peeling skin, and an unpleasant odor. If left untreated, it can spread to the toenails or other parts of the body. Good hygiene, wearing breathable footwear, and regular sock changes can help prevent recurrence. Persistent infections may require prescription-strength treatment. Avoiding shared locker rooms or showers barefoot also helps stop reinfection. For men who notice ongoing irritation or cracked, itchy skin between the toes, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to ensure an accurate diagnosis, and fast relief from this stubborn and uncomfortable condition.

Athlete’s foot is an inconvenient condition that can be easily reduced with the proper treatment. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Mindy J. Trotter, DPM, CWSP from Georgia.  Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Athlete’s Foot: The Sole Story

Athlete's foot, also known as tinea pedis, can be an extremely contagious foot infection. It is commonly contracted in public changing areas and bathrooms, dormitory style living quarters, around locker rooms and public swimming pools, or anywhere your feet often come into contact with other people.

Solutions to Combat Athlete’s Foot

• Hydrate your feet by using lotion
• Exfoliate
• Buff off nails
• Use of anti-fungal products
• Examine your feet and visit your doctor if any suspicious blisters or cuts develop

Athlete’s foot can cause many irritating symptoms such as dry and flaking skin, itching, and redness. Some more severe symptoms can include bleeding and cracked skin, intense itching and burning, and even pain when walking. In the worst cases, Athlete’s foot can cause blistering as well. Speak to your podiatrist for a better understanding of the different causes of Athlete’s foot, as well as help in determining which treatment options are best for you.

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