Items filtered by date: September 2025

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis is a long-term condition that can affect multiple joints, and the feet are often impacted in ways that change a child’s daily life. Inflammation may appear in the ankles, midfoot, or toes, leading to stiffness, pain, and swelling that limit mobility. Some children develop flatfoot or toe deformities, which place added strain on walking and balance. These challenges may cause hesitation in sports or even in simple play, reducing confidence and independence. Wearing supportive shoes, custom orthoses, and targeted exercises can help maintain movement, while medical treatment addresses the underlying inflammation. Early care is essential because preventing deformity is easier than correcting it, once established. Families who notice that a child struggles with foot pain or changes in walking should not delay seeking professional guidance. If your child has foot pain related to juvenile idiopathic arthritis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

The medical condition Pes Planus, or more commonly known as flat feet, is often noticeable while standing with your feet flat on the floor and no visible arch is present. Oftentimes babies are born with flat feet and the arch develops with age. There is a small percentage of adults who never develop an arch which is said to be caused by extended stress or a traumatic injury. Flat feet can also result from an abnormal foot structure, genetic factors, obesity, or an injury to the foot. The function of the arch is to help balance weight across the body, in addition to determining a walking style. If no pain coincides with flat feet immediate care is not needed, although shoe inserts or custom orthotics may be recommended to prevent future injuries. One common symptom of flat feet is foot pain, which can develop from strained ligaments and muscles. If you have flat feet it is strongly suggested to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can properly diagnose this condition and provide various treatment methods that are best for you.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Falls are a leading cause of workplace injuries and can have serious consequences, especially for the feet and ankles. Injuries from falls may include fractures, sprains, and long-term joint problems that affect mobility and quality of life. Preventing falls involves using proper safety equipment, maintaining clean and dry work areas, wearing slip resistant footwear, and following established safety protocols. A podiatrist can evaluate and treat foot and ankle injuries resulting from falls, provide guidance on supportive footwear, and recommend strategies to restore strength and balance. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury from falling, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with one of our podiatrists from Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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

Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, affects the appearance and health of toenails. It is usually caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms, public showers, and sweaty shoes. Symptoms include thickened, discolored nails that appear yellow, brown, or white. The nail may become brittle, crumbly, or distorted in shape and can sometimes emit a foul odor. It may feel uncomfortable or painful, especially when pressure is applied. A podiatrist can diagnose toenail fungus through a physical exam and laboratory tests to confirm the type of infection. Treatment options include topical antifungal medications, oral prescriptions, and regular nail care to prevent recurrence. Early intervention can help prevent the infection from spreading to other nails or people. If you notice changes in the color, texture, or thickness of your toenails, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment, which may include prescribed medication.

If left untreated, toenail fungus may spread to other toenails, skin, or even fingernails. If you suspect you have toenail fungus it is important to seek treatment right away. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Symptoms

• Warped or oddly shaped nails
• Yellowish nails
• Loose/separated nail
• Buildup of bits and pieces of nail fragments under the nail
• Brittle, broken, thickened nail

Treatment

If self-care strategies and over-the-counter medications does not help your fungus, your podiatrist may give you a prescription drug instead. Even if you find relief from your toenail fungus symptoms, you may experience a repeat infection in the future.

Prevention

In order to prevent getting toenail fungus in the future, you should always make sure to wash your feet with soap and water. After washing, it is important to dry your feet thoroughly especially in between the toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to trim straight across instead of in a rounded shape. It is crucial not to cover up discolored nails with nail polish because that will prevent your nail from being able to “breathe”.

In some cases, surgical procedure may be needed to remove the toenail fungus. Consult with your podiatrist about the best treatment options for your case of toenail fungus.  

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

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. Risk factors include wearing tight or narrow shoes, improper toenail trimming, genetic predisposition, and injury to the nail. Causes often involve repeated pressure, trauma, or abnormal nail shape. In severe or recurring cases, a podiatrist may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove part or all of the affected nail and prevent regrowth in the problem area. This type of doctor can also provide guidance on proper nail care, footwear, and preventive measures. If you are struggling with an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery for removal. 

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Parkwood Podiatry. Our doctors 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 offices located in Brunswick and Hinesville, GA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.