A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe joint. It develops when the big toe gradually shifts toward the second toe, causing the joint to stick outward. This change can lead to swelling, redness, and pain, especially when wearing tight or narrow shoes. Bunions often develop due to inherited foot structure, arthritis, or repeated pressure on the toes from footwear. As the joint becomes more misaligned, walking and standing may become uncomfortable. Early treatment often focuses on reducing pressure and irritation. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box, using protective padding, and adding custom orthotics can help support the foot and ease discomfort. Anti-inflammatory care may also reduce swelling. When bunions become severe and interfere with daily activities, surgical correction may be considered to realign the joint. If you notice a painful bump forming near your big toe, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can evaluate the problem and recommend appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, 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?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

• Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
• Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
• Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
• Orthotics or foot inserts
• Surgery

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.

Infected ingrown toenails can turn a small nail problem into a painful swollen toe that makes walking uncomfortable. This condition develops when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing bacteria to enter the irritated area. Redness, warmth, drainage, and throbbing pain are common warning signs. Wearing tight shoes, improper nail trimming, and naturally curved nails often increase the risk. Early care can prevent deeper infection. Avoid digging into the nail or cutting the corner too deeply, since this can worsen the infection. Supportive roomy shoes reduce pressure on the tender toe. When toe pain, swelling, or drainage continues, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, 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.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

• Bacterial infections
• Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
• Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
• Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
• Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right 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 care needs.

Foot and ankle injuries are frequent concerns for basketball players because quick pivots, sharp stops, and repeated jumping place heavy stress on the lower limbs. Sprains are especially troublesome, often occurring when the foot rolls inward or outward and overstretches the supporting ligaments of the ankle. These basketball injuries can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty pushing off the ground. Fractures of the foot or ankle can also occur from forceful landings or repeated impact, sometimes affecting bones such as the fifth metatarsal or the talus. Conditions like Achilles tendon strains or ruptures develop when the tendon is pushed beyond its limit during explosive movements. Shoes that lack adequate support or worn-out athletic shoes can increase the risk of injury, as can wearing flip-flops before or after games. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury, order imaging if needed, and provide effective treatment or discuss surgery when necessary. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while playing sports, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, 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.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

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

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin between the toes and sometimes spreads to the soles of the feet. It often presents as an itchy, scaly, red rash that can cause discomfort and cracking of the skin. This condition develops when fungi thrive in warm, damp environments such as the inside of shoes or boots, wet clothing, locker room floors, or public bathrooms. Risk factors include excessive sweating, wearing tight or non-breathable footwear, and shared communal spaces. A podiatrist can diagnose the infection, recommend antifungal treatments, and provide guidance on footwear and hygiene to prevent recurrence. If you have symptoms of athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can begin early treatment, which can 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 Mindy J. Trotter, DPM, CWSP from 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 our office located in Peachtree City, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.