Living with diabetes means paying extra attention to the feet, since changes in circulation and sensation can allow small issues to develop without early warning. A daily look at the skin helps you spot irritation, dryness, or minor injuries before they worsen. Gentle washing, careful drying between the toes, and regular moisturizing support healthier skin and reduce the chance of cracking. Choosing shoes that fit well and protect pressure points is equally important, as rubbing or tight areas can lead to sores that heal slowly. Trimming toenails straight across helps prevent ingrown edges, and any redness, swelling, or unusual warmth should be taken seriously. Routine podiatric care makes it easier to catch problems early and maintain comfortable mobility. If you notice color changes, numbness, or a spot that does not improve, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for proper evaluation and guidance in diabetic foot care.

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 one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors 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 Dothan, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Painful legs and moving toes syndrome is an uncommon condition that causes ongoing leg discomfort along with slow, involuntary toe movements. The pain is often described as aching, burning, or deep, and can be constant or come and go. At the same time, the toes may move on their own in a twisting or writhing pattern without control. This condition is sometimes linked to nerve injury, spinal problems, or past trauma, but the exact cause is not always clear. Diagnosis involves a detailed exam and may include imaging or nerve testing to rule out other conditions. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and controlling movement through medications, nerve-based therapies, or targeted exercise. Because symptoms can be complex and long-lasting, early evaluation is important. If you notice ongoing leg pain with unusual toe movements, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Some foot conditions may require additional professional care. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Rare Foot Conditions

The majority of foot conditions are common and can be treated by a podiatrist.  Standard diagnostic procedures are generally used to identify specific conditions and treatment can be rendered. A podiatrist also treats rare foot conditions which can be difficult to diagnose and may need extra attention and care. 

There are many rare foot conditions that can affect children. Some of these can include:

• Freiberg’s disease
• Kohler’s disease
• Maffucci syndrome

Freiberg’s disease - This can be seen as a deterioration and flattening of a metatarsal bone that exists in the ball of the foot. It typically affects pre-teen and teenage girls, but can affect anyone at any age. Symptoms that can accompany this can be swelling, stiffness, and the patient may limp. 

Kohler’s disease - This often targets the bone in the arch of the foot and affects younger boys. It can lead to an interruption of the blood supply which ultimately can lead to bone deterioration. The patient may limp or experience tenderness, swelling, and redness.

Maffucci syndrome - This affects the long bones in a child’s foot leading to the development of abnormal bone lesions. They are benign growths and typically develop in early childhood and the bones may be susceptible to breaking. 

A podiatrist can properly diagnose and treat all types of rare foot conditions. If your child is affected by any of these symptoms or conditions, please don’t hesitate to call our office so the correct treatment method can begin.

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

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 one of our podiatrists of Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors 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 Dothan, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Scar tissue can develop in the foot or ankle after an injury, surgery, or repeated strain to the soft tissues. It forms as the body repairs damaged areas, but the new tissue is often thicker and less flexible than the original structure. When scar tissue builds up around muscles, tendons, or ligaments, it may limit normal movement and create ongoing discomfort. Some people notice stiffness, tenderness, or a pulling sensation during walking or exercise. Treatment often focuses on restoring mobility and reducing irritation in the affected area. Gentle stretching, targeted exercises, and focused massage techniques may help improve flexibility and circulation. Wearing supportive footwear and activity changes can also reduce pressure on healing tissues. In some cases, medical treatments may be recommended to help break up restrictive scar tissue. When scar tissue leads to persistent foot or ankle pain or reduced movement, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Podiatry Health Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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