Foot and Ankle Care | Piedmont Orthopedics | OrthoAtlanta Piedmont Orthopedics

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Foot and ankle problems can make everyday activities such as standing, walking, or exercise difficult. If you have ongoing foot and ankle pain, swelling, or any other issue that is disrupting your routine, then it may be time to seek a foot and ankle specialist.

At Piedmont Orthopedics | OrthoAtlanta, our fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialists provide comprehensive orthopedic care for foot and ankle injuries and conditions, helping patients to return to normal function as quickly and safely as possible. Schedule your appointment today!

Topic at a Glance

Foot and ankle specialists diagnose and treat conditions affecting the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves of the foot and ankle.
Common problems include heel pain, plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, ankle sprains, fractures, tendon injuries, arthritis, and other conditions that can affect mobility.
Treatment depends on the underlying condition and may include activity modification, bracing, orthotics, physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgery when appropriate.
Early evaluation can help identify the cause of persistent foot and ankle pain and support a treatment plan focused on restoring mobility and function.

What Does a Foot and Ankle Specialist Do?

Our foot and ankle specialists are orthopedic surgeons who have been fellowship-trained in diagnosing and treating foot and ankle conditions. They specialize in conditions that affect the various structures in the foot and ankle, including the bones, muscles, ligaments, nerves, and structures such as the foot's arch.

jogger stretching her ankle with sunset in view

When Should You See a Foot and Ankle Specialist?

There are many reasons why you might need to see an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist. The following list contains some of those reasons:

Persistent foot or ankle pain
Heel pain
Swelling
Difficulty walking or standing
Reduced mobility
Stiffness
Recurrent ankle sprains
Weakness or instability
Numbness or other nerve symptoms
Pain after an injury
Pain that interferes with normal activities
Symptoms that aren't improving

Acute injuries, particularly suspected fractures or significant swelling/deformity, require prompt medical attention.

Common Foot and Ankle Conditions

Foot and ankle specialists treat a wide range of conditions affecting the bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and other structures that support movement. Some problems develop gradually, while others result from an injury or repeated stress. Common conditions treated by Ortho Atlanta include the following:

Tendon and Soft Tissue Conditions

Tendon problems can cause pain, swelling, weakness, and difficulty with movement. Conditions treated by OrthoAtlanta include the following:

Foot and Toe Conditions

Foot and ankle specialists also treat structural problems and deformities in the feet. These can affect your comfort while walking and your mobility. Common foot and toe conditions include the following:

Ankle and Foot Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries can affect the bones, ligaments, and other supporting structures. Ortho Atlanta treats the following conditions:

Arthritis and Diabetic Foot Conditions

Ortho Atlanta also treats rheumatoid arthritis (RA) of the foot and ankle (Arthritis Foundation Approved) and diabetic foot conditions. At times these conditions may require specialized evaluation and treatment.

How Are Foot and Ankle Problems Diagnosed?

During your first visit with a foot and ankle specialist, they will diagnose the reasons for your symptoms. They will begin by discussing your medical history and the symptoms you're experiencing. During the physical examination, they will look at things like strength, range of motion, and walking pattern (gait).

To help confirm their diagnosis, they may order imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI scan.

Foot and Ankle Treatment Options

Following your diagnosis, your foot and ankle specialist will create a custom treatment plan. Treatment will be based on the severity of the condition and the extent to which it is affecting your mobility. Where possible, they will recommend nonsurgical treatment first. In other cases, surgery may be the best option.

Nonsurgical Foot and Ankle Treatments

Several conservative treatments can help foot and ankle conditions. Your foot and ankle specialist will select those appropriate to your condition. They can include the following:

Activity modification
Bracing
Orthotic inserts
Physical therapy
Medications

Ortho Atlanta also offers PRP therapy and stem cell therapy to support the recovery of certain soft tissue injuries, including Achilles tendon pain, peroneal tendonitis, and plantar fasciitis.

Foot and Ankle Surgery

Our foot and ankle surgeons provide minimally invasive procedures to treat many foot and ankle conditions. They also provide reconstruction procedures to restore function when necessary. The surgical procedures we provide include the following:

For certain surgical and wound-care situations, Ortho Atlanta also provides amniotic and placental graft tissue treatments.

Conditions Treatments Diagnostic Tests & Information

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What Can You Expect During Recovery?

Your recovery will largely depend on the type of treatment required and the severity of the condition. Many benefit from rehabilitation through a physical therapist to get them back to everyday activities. Through follow-up appointments, your recovery will be progressive, restoring your strength and mobility.

Why Choose Ortho Atlanta for Foot & Ankle Care?

Choosing the right foot and ankle specialist can make a difference when pain or an injury affects your mobility and daily life. Ortho Atlanta combines specialized expertise with coordinated orthopedic care to help patients understand their condition and explore treatment options suited to their needs.

Fellowship-Trained Foot & Ankle Specialists
Our physicians are board-certified and have advanced training in treating complex foot and ankle conditions, including sports injuries, arthritis, reconstruction, and other conditions affecting mobility and function.
Comprehensive, Coordinated Care
Our orthopedic team works together across diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation to provide a more connected approach to care.
Advanced Diagnostic and Treatment Options
Modern imaging, arthroscopic techniques, and evidence-based treatment approaches help our specialists accurately evaluate foot and ankle conditions and develop personalized treatment plans.
Conservative Treatment When Appropriate
When appropriate, treatment may begin with nonsurgical options such as physical therapy, bracing, or other conservative approaches. Surgery can be considered when these treatments do not provide adequate relief or when the condition requires surgical intervention.
Orthopedic Care
Ortho Atlanta has served patients throughout the region for decades, providing comprehensive orthopedic care with a focus on helping patients maintain or regain mobility and function.

Get Specialized Foot and Ankle Care

Foot and ankle pain can affect your mobility and make everyday activities more difficult. Piedmont Orthopedics | OrthoAtlanta provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, with nonsurgical and surgical options available.

If pain, swelling, stiffness, or an injury is affecting your daily life, schedule an appointment with Ortho Atlanta to discuss your symptoms and explore a personalized treatment plan.

Meet Our Foot & Ankle Specialists

Sudhir R. Belagaje, M.D.

Foot & Ankle

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Steven E. Blackwood, M.D.

Foot & Ankle

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Felix A. Rodriguez-del Rio, M.D.

Foot & Ankle

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Jeffrey P. Smith, M.D.

Foot & Ankle

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Carson J. Smith, M.D.

Foot & Ankle

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What to Expect: Your Care Journey

Comprehensive Evaluation

We review your symptoms, medical history, and activity level to determine the cause of your pain.

Advanced Imaging & Diagnosis

On-site imaging allows for accurate and timely diagnosis.

Personalized Treatment Plan

We begin with conservative therapies whenever appropriate and outline surgical options only if necessary.

Treatment & Recovery

Whether non-surgical or surgical, your recovery plan includes clear guidance and structured follow-up care.

Rehabilitation & Return to Activity

Targeted physical therapy programs help restore mobility, strength, and long-term stability.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does a foot and ankle specialist treat?

A foot and ankle specialist treats a wide range of conditions affecting the foot and ankle, including tendon injuries, plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, ankle sprains, fractures, arthritis, and other problems that may affect mobility and function.

Q: When should I see a foot and ankle specialist?

Consider seeing a specialist if foot or ankle pain, swelling, stiffness, weakness, or difficulty walking persists or interferes with your daily activities. You should also seek an evaluation after a significant injury or if symptoms are not improving with initial care.

Q: How are foot and ankle problems diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically begins with a review of your medical history and symptoms, followed by a physical examination. Your specialist may evaluate your strength, range of motion, stability, and gait. Imaging such as X-rays or an MRI may also be recommended when needed.

Q: Can foot and ankle problems be treated without surgery?

Yes. Depending on the condition, treatment may include activity modification, bracing, orthotic inserts, physical therapy, and medications. Some patients may also be candidates for treatments such as PRP therapy. Your specialist can recommend options based on your diagnosis and individual needs.

Q: When might foot and ankle surgery be necessary?

Surgery may be considered when a condition causes significant structural damage, affects mobility, or does not respond adequately to appropriate nonsurgical treatment. Depending on the problem, procedures may include arthroscopy, fracture repair, tendon surgery, bunion surgery, ankle replacement, or other reconstructive procedures.

Q: How long does it take to recover from foot and ankle treatment?

Recovery varies depending on the condition, treatment, and overall health. Some problems may improve with conservative care, while recovery from surgery can take longer and may involve physical therapy and activity restrictions. Your specialist can provide a more specific recovery plan based on your treatment.

Hear What Other Patients Have to Say

Dr. Blackwood is simply the best! He’s been nothing but kind and professional since the first day I seen him. It’s no wonder his team is awesome as well. Every step of the way has been professional, and treated with kindness and very responsive.

- Trey Jackson
Dr.B has done both of my feet. Had planters Fasciitis in both soHe did a plantersFasciitis release in both feet over the last two years.He’s awesome and the staff is awesome as well. If you have problems With your feet he is the best of the best.

- Nikki Payne
I tore my Achilles tendon in August. Dr Rodriguez del Rio did surgery in August. I followed his instructions and now in February I can walk normally without my cane and for long periods of time. I am very pleased with the results of his treatment and highly recommend him if you have need of foot or ankle surgery.

- Nancy Stevens