Optimum Podiatry

A bone spur is an extra area of bone that forms where your foot is dealing with repeated pressure, tension, or irritation. You may notice it as a hard bump on your heel, the top of your foot, or near your toes.

Even though the bump itself may not seem serious at first, it can become painful when it starts rubbing against your shoes or affects the way you walk. The good news is that treatment often starts with simple, conservative options that help relieve pressure and improve comfort.

If you have foot pain or a concern that is slowing you down, give us a call at 770-727-0614 to schedule an appointment.

In our latest blog, Dr. Cowans explains five conditions that may be treated with laser therapy for pain, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, arthritis-related discomfort, soft tissue injuries, and certain types of nerve-related foot pain.

If you are looking for a non-invasive option that may help you get back to activity with less discomfort, start by learning more here:

Five Conditions We Treat with Laser Therapy for Pain Conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis often resolve with laser therapy for pain. Contact Marietta podiatrist Dr. Alvin Cowans for info.

Most people think turf toe only happens to professional football players. But this injury can affect anyone who plays on artificial turf, from youth soccer players to weekend athletes. It is a sprain of the ligaments at the base of your big toe, and if left untreated, it can lead to long-term stiffness and mobility issues.

If your toe is sore or swollen after a game, do not push through it. Give us a call at 770-727-0614.

That sudden pain in your big toe after a game? It could be turf toe, a sprain of the ligaments that support your big toe joint.

Turf toe happens when your big toe gets jammed or bends too far backward during play. The pain is immediate, and without treatment, the joint can stiffen and lose mobility over time. The good news is that most turf toe injuries respond well to nonsurgical care, including rest, immobilization, and custom orthotics.

Read more about turf toe causes and treatment:

What Is Turf Toe and How Is It Treated? What is turf toe? This is an athletic injury to the ligaments at the base of the big toe. If you play sports on turf and have a sore toe, call Dr. Alvin Cowans.

Playing on artificial turf puts extra stress on your feet, especially your big toe. A quick warmup that includes toe stretches and ankle circles can help protect the ligaments in your feet before you step onto the field.

If you are dealing with toe pain, stiffness, or swelling after a game, do not wait for it to go away on its own. Give us a call at 770-727-0614.

Summer activity can catch up with your Achilles tendon, especially if you've been playing pickleball, taking longer walks, or wearing more sandals than usual. If the back of your heel is sore, morning stiffness is setting in, or you're noticing tenderness, Achilles tendinitis could be the culprit.

The key to recovery is addressing it early.

End-of-Summer Achilles Tendinitis: Why Your Heel May Hurt Now Achilles tendinitis often develops after a long summer of increased activity. Contact Marietta podiatrist Dr. Alvin Cowans for relief at the first sign of pain.