A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe as the joint gradually shifts out of alignment. While bunions may worsen over time, certain steps can help reduce stress on the joint and slow progression. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box can help limit pressure that pushes the toes inward. Wearing supportive footwear and custom orthotics may improve foot mechanics and reduce strain during walking. Maintaining a healthy activity routine while avoiding repetitive pressure that increases pain may also help. In some cases, strengthening and stretching exercises may improve joint function and comfort. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the bunion, assess walking patterns, and recommend strategies based on your foot structure and symptoms. Early management may help delay worsening and reduce discomfort during daily activity. If you notice a bunion becoming more painful or more noticeable, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can help you to manage this condition.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Brain Middleton, DPM of Medical Foot Care Center. 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 Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Swollen feet and ankles can signal more serious problems than simple fluid retention. This condition, called edema, occurs when fluid collects in the soft tissues and causes visible puffiness. The skin may appear stretched, shiny, or feel tight. Some people notice discomfort or stiffness while walking. Swelling can affect one or both feet and may be linked to blood flow, veins, or internal organs like the heart or kidneys. It can also develop after an injury or infection, especially if inflammation occurs. When swelling appears suddenly or continues without a clear reason, it should not be ignored. A podiatrist can evaluate the feet, check circulation, and look for signs of underlying conditions using imaging and other tests. If you have unexplained swelling in the feet or ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Swollen feet can be a sign of an underlying condition. If you have any concerns, contact Brain Middleton, DPM of Medical Foot Care Center. 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 our office located in Rome, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor circulation can affect the feet and ankles in ways that make daily life uncomfortable, and, at times, risky. Blood flow depends on arteries and veins, which have different roles. Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the tissues, while veins return blood back to the heart. When arteries are narrowed, the feet may feel cold, painful, or tired, especially during walking. When veins do not work properly, blood can pool in the lower legs, leading to swelling, heaviness, and skin changes. Both problems can increase the risk of slow healing and infection. People may notice discoloration, numbness, or wounds that take longer to improve. A podiatrist can help identify circulation concerns, monitor skin health, and guide care to reduce complications. If you have symptoms of poor circulation such as foot pain, swelling, or slow-healing wounds, it is suggested that you seek care from a podiatrist.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact Brain Middleton, DPM of Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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

Strong feet help support balance, movement, and stability during activity. When small muscles in the feet become weak, people may notice fatigue, aching, or poor control when walking. Simple exercises can improve foot strength by targeting these muscles. They also improve flexibility in the feet and ankles. Movements that involve lifting the toes or spreading them apart can help build strength. Gentle pointing and flexing of the foot can improve range of motion. Better foot strength can support the arch and reduce strain on parts of the foot and ankle. A podiatrist can evaluate foot function and identify areas of weakness. They can guide patients through structured exercise programs and prescribe custom orthotics to support alignment. Strengthening the feet can help to improve comfort and mobility. If you have sore or aching feet that limit daily activities, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Brain Middleton, DPM from Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Cracked heels, also called heel fissures, develop when the skin on the bottom or edges of the heel becomes thick, very dry, and less flexible. As pressure increases during standing and walking, the skin can split, causing discomfort that ranges from mild tenderness to sharp pain. The heel may look rough, flaky, yellowed, or callused. Deeper cracks may bleed or become inflamed. Common causes include dry skin, prolonged standing, and open-back shoes. Excess pressure on the heel and certain medical conditions that affect skin health are also factors. A podiatrist can examine the severity of the fissures, safely trim thickened skin, and recommend moisturizing treatments, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics to reduce pressure. Targeted care can help prevent infection and improve healing, especially when walking becomes painful. Early treatment is important because untreated fissures can deepen and lead to more serious skin breakdown. If you have painful cracked heels or heel fissures, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Cracked heels are unsightly and can cause further damage to your shoes and feet. If you have any concerns, contact Brain Middleton, DPM from Medical Foot Care Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels appear unappealing and can make it harder for you walk around in sandals. Aside from looking unpleasant, cracked heels can also tear stockings, socks, and wear out your shoes. There are several methods to help restore a cracked heel and prevent further damage.

How Do You Get Them?

Dry skin is the number one culprit in creating cracked heels. Many athletes, walkers, joggers, and even swimmers suffer from cracked heels. Age and skin oil production play a role to getting cracked heels as well.

Promote Healing

Over the counter medicines can help, especially for those that need instant relief or who suffer from chronic dry feet.

Wear Socks – Wearing socks with medicated creams helps lock in moisture.

Moisturizers – Applying both day and night will help alleviate dryness which causes cracking.

Pumice Stones – These exfoliate and remove dead skin, which allows for smoother moisturizer application and better absorption into the skin. 

Change in Diet

Eating healthy with a well-balanced diet will give the skin a fresh and radiant look. Your body responds to the kinds of food you ingest. Omega-3 fatty acids and zinc supplements can also revitalize skin tissue.

Most importantly, seek professional help if unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels. A podiatrist will help you with any questions or information needed. 

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