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Who May Be a Candidate for Ankle Joint Replacement

Tuesday, 10 February 2026

Total ankle replacement is a surgical option designed to relieve pain and restore motion in people with severe ankle arthritis. Not everyone qualifies for this procedure. Ideal candidates usually have advanced joint damage that has not improved with conservative care such as bracing, injections, or targeted exercises. Good bone quality and stable ligaments are important to support the implant. Overall health also matters, as healing and long-term outcomes depend on circulation, skin integrity, and the ability to follow postoperative instructions. Patients with significant deformity, active infection, or severe nerve damage may not be appropriate candidates. Activity level is considered as well, since high impact demands can shorten implant lifespan. A thorough evaluation helps determine whether replacement or another treatment is more appropriate. If ankle arthritis is causing ongoing pain or limited mobility, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment that is best for you.

In certain cases, in which the patient suffers from extreme pain or damage in a joint, joint replacement surgery may be deemed useful. If you have constant pain in a foot joint, consult with Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Joint Replacement Surgery?

Over time, joints wear down; this can be exacerbated by diseases and conditions. Joint replacement surgery, also known as arthroplasty, is when a damaged joint is surgically removed and replaced with a prosthesis. Prostheses, which can be made of ceramic, plastic, or metal, act as joints in lieu of an actual joint. One of the most prevalent causes for joint replacement is arthritis.

Arthritis in the Foot

Arthritis can occur in any joint in the body, including in the feet. Common types of arthritis in the foot are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. The big toe is usually where arthritis occurs in the foot; this is known as hallux rigidus.

Joint Replacement Surgery in the Foot

The most common form of joint replacement in the foot is a first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint placement. MTP joint replacement surgery is designed to treat hallux rigidus. Surgery is not intensive, and recovery occurs within one to two months after the procedure has been done. Overall, joint replacement surgery is a safe and effective way to treat pain in the joint of the foot.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Palatka and Saint Augustine, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

When Diabetic Feet Feel Uncomfortable, Puffy, or Out of Balance

Tuesday, 03 February 2026

Diabetic feet can reveal a great deal about overall health, especially when they feel unusually cool, look enlarged, or develop rough, flaky skin. Changes in temperature may point to circulation concerns, while altered sensation can be related to nerve function. A puffy appearance around the feet or ankles often reflects fluid buildup, which may occur after long periods of standing or sitting, or in connection with vascular, heart, or medication-related issues. Skin that feels tight or irritated may signal reduced moisture, impaired blood flow, or environmental exposure. These signs often appear together because circulation, nerves, skin, and soft tissues are closely connected. If these changes are persistent, uncomfortable, or worsening, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can help identify the cause and guide appropriate treatment.

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 Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor 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.

Arthritis Can Cause Pain in the Feet and Ankles

Friday, 30 January 2026

If you are suffering from tenderness, pain, or stiffness in the joints of your feet or ankles, call us to schedule an appointment.

When the Fat Pad Under the Foot Breaks Down

Tuesday, 27 January 2026

Fat pad syndrome affects the soft cushioning under the heel or ball of the foot that helps absorb impact during walking. Over time, this padding can thin out, shift, or lose its shock absorbing ability. Aging, repetitive impact, long periods of standing, walking barefoot on hard surfaces, and poorly cushioned shoes can all contribute. Pain is often described as a deep ache or bruised feeling that worsens with activity and improves with rest. Discomfort is usually felt directly under the heel or forefoot rather than along the sides. The area may feel tender to the touch, and walking barefoot can be especially uncomfortable. Because symptoms can resemble other foot problems, proper evaluation is important. Supportive footwear and targeted care can help protect the area and reduce strain. If your foot feels bruised or painful and persists or worsens with walking, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions

Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
Shoes that don’t fit properly
Pressure sores
Loss of circulation in legs & feet
Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

Hammertoes That Involve Ligament Changes

Tuesday, 20 January 2026

A hammertoe can develop when the soft tissues that guide toe movement stop working together the way they should. In some cases this includes a ligament in the foot that becomes overly tight or loses its normal support, causing the toe to lift at the middle joint and settle into a curved position. When this happens, the toe may feel stiff, sore, or crowded in a shoe because its alignment no longer matches the surrounding toes. The skin can become irritated from rubbing, and pressure points may form that make walking uncomfortable. Addressing the problem depends on how rigid the toe has become and how much the involved ligament is influencing the deformity. A podiatrist can examine the toe, review how the ligament is functioning, and suggest options such as shoe adjustments, protective padding, inserts, or procedures that correct the underlying cause. If the toe is becoming painful or harder to move, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for effective treatment solutions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact Dawn Miles, DPM from Florida. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

Pain in the affected toes
Development of corns or calluses due to friction
Inflammation
Redness
Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

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