Village Podiatry Centers

Dr. Williamson- Honorary Chairman for Real Men Cook Atlanta

Village Podiatry Centers' own Dr. Williamson, will be an honorary chairman for Real Men Cook Atlanta. Here's what Dr. Williamson had to say: "I am an honorary chairman for Real Men Cook Atlanta which is a national event held in multiple cities on Fathers Day. The event will be held on Sunday, June 16 from 3-6 pm at the Georgia World Congress Center. I won't be cooking anything but will be there as an honorary chairman. Several noted celebrities from the city will be in attendance as well."

What to Expect from an Extremity MRI

A traditional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan requires the patient to lie on a table inside the device for about 30 minutes. These devices can sometimes be uncomfortable, and for some patients, they inspire anxiety. An extremity MRI offers a solution to these problems. When a podiatrist only needs an image of the foot and ankle, there’s no need to place the entire body into the scanning device. An extremity MRI can increase patient comfort and offer reduced scan times. Those who suffer from claustrophobia or anxiety with traditional MRIs will not likely require sedation with an extremity MRI. If the patient is a child, the parent or caregiver can remain with the child throughout the scan to offer reassurance.

Village Podiatry Centers in Georgia offers extremity MRIs to improve patient comfort. Schedule an appointment today at (678) 894-7535 or visit our website to learn more about our advanced diagnostic equipment and unparalleled patient care.

The Advantages of Using Digital X-Rays to Diagnose Problems in the Feet

Patients who go to podiatry offices that offer digital x-rays enjoy numerous diagnostic benefits. Traditional x-rays required the development of film, whereas digital x-rays direct light on a sensor, which is then instantly translated into a digital image. Today’s podiatrists often use an ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan to diagnose a foot problem.

Less Radiation

Although traditional x-rays emit a fairly low amount of radiation, digital x-rays emit even less. Those who are concerned about the potential effects of radiation should ask their podiatrists if digital x-rays are available. Children in particular may benefit from reduced radiation.

Clearer Picture

Podiatrists who use digital x-rays can see bones, tendons, and joints much more clearly, allowing for a more accurate diagnosis. This can be particularly important for those with conditions like stress fractures, which are very tiny cracks that might be otherwise difficult to detect. Digital x-rays also allow for magnification of areas of the image, and allow your podiatrist to view multiple angles of an area to get a better idea of the extent of the injury.

Less Time

Podiatrists and patients alike enjoy the speed with which digital x-rays produce images. Instead of waiting for the film to be developed, during which time you might aggravate a foot injury by continuing to walk on it, your podiatrist can evaluate and discuss the results with you much more quickly.

Digital Storage

Digital x-rays can be stored on a computer and on backup files, which significantly reduces the risk that they could be lost. Your podiatrist can also review your past x-rays to evaluate the progression of a condition over time.

Village Podiatry Centers offers state-of-the-art digital x-rays of the foot and ankle to provide an accurate diagnosis every time. If you suffer from foot or ankle pain, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced foot doctors today. Call us at (678) 894-7535 or visit our website to learn more.

Diabetes and Your Feet

People with diabetes are at an increased risk of a range of health complications, including foot problems. Diabetes can interfere with the blood circulation in the legs, which slows down the healing process. Peripheral neuropathy, a common complication of diabetes, makes you less likely to feel a cut or other injury. This can lead to infections, and in severe cases, possible amputation.

To learn more about taking care of your feet, watch this video. You’ll learn about the recommended types of socks that diabetics should wear and get helpful tips to help prevent foot injuries.

If you’re diabetic, a podiatrist should be part of your medical care team. Schedule an appointment with Village Podiatry Centers today at (678) 894-7535, or visit our website to learn more.

How High Heels Can Damage Your Feet

High heels might be the perfect accent to your favorite wardrobe, but have you considered the damage they could be doing to your feet? Foot doctors often treat those with foot pain due to wearing high heels excessively. Here’s a look at some of the foot problems your podiatrist might diagnose if you often wear high heels:

Hammertoe

High heels force your feet into an unnatural position. Your toes are jammed against the front of the shoe, which bends them. Over time, hammertoe can develop, which refers to a bend in the toe’s middle joint. If you’re diagnosed with hammertoe, your podiatrist will likely recommend wearing more suitable shoes and using custom orthotic devices. In severe cases, surgery might be required to release the tendon and remove part of the bone.

Metatarsalgia

When you wear high heels, the weight is shifted to the front of your feet, which significantly increases the pressure and strain exerted on those areas. Metatarsalgia refers to joint pain in the front of the foot. Your podiatrist will likely recommend rest and ice therapy, along with stretching exercises and orthotic inserts. You’ll also likely need physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery.

Stress Fracture

Stress fractures are common in athletes, but they can also occur in women who wear high heels frequently. Stress fractures are tiny cracks in the bone that occur when the muscle is no longer capable of absorbing shock. Stress fractures are considered a repetitive movement injury. For stress fractures, podiatrists emphasize the importance of rest to avoid a more serious injury. You’ll also need to wear more sensible shoes and you may require a brace.

If you experience foot pain, work with a podiatrist to get on the path to better health. Schedule an appointment with a foot doctor at Village Podiatry Centers today by calling (678) 894-7535. We offer 35 convenient locations for residents of central and northern Georgia.