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Dr. Eric Bouldin is your board certified podiatrist in Tullahoma, Tennessee. Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C. serves Coffee County and surrounding areas.

Are you suffering with foot and ankle pain?

You deserve a life free from constant pain.

Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C. are experts in treating all ailments of the foot and ankle. Here are some examples of common complaints we see everyday in our practice.

  • Achilles Tendon Pathology

    The Achilles tendon, the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, connects the calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to the calcaneus (heel bone). It plays a critical role in walking, running, and jumping by facilitating plantarflexion of the foot.

    Common Achilles Tendon Pathologies

    1. Achilles Tendinitis
      This condition involves inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often due to overuse or repetitive stress. Patients typically present with pain, swelling, and stiffness in the posterior heel, especially after activity or in the morning. Tendinitis can progress to tendinosis if left untreated.

    2. Achilles Tendinosis
      Tendinosis refers to chronic degeneration of the tendon without significant inflammation. It is characterized by collagen breakdown and fiber disorganization within the tendon. This condition may cause thickening of the tendon, persistent pain, and decreased function.

    3. Achilles Tendon Rupture
      A tear or rupture occurs most often in middle-aged adults during sudden acceleration or forceful push-off movements. Symptoms include a sudden onset of sharp pain in the back of the ankle, a popping sound, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing on tiptoe. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to restore function.

    4. Insertional Achilles Tendinopathy
      This affects the distal portion of the tendon at its insertion into the heel bone and is often associated with heel spurs. Patients report pain at the back of the heel that worsens with activity and footwear pressure.

    Diagnosis

    Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on patient history and physical examination. Palpation may reveal tenderness, thickening, or defects in the tendon. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI can aid in assessing the extent of tendon damage and help differentiate between tendinitis, tendinosis, and rupture.

    Treatment

    • Non-surgical management is the first line for most Achilles tendon

    • Surgical intervention may be necessary

    Prevention

    Preventative strategies include proper warm-up routines, strengthening exercises, appropriate footwear, gradual increase in activity intensity, and avoiding sudden changes in training.

    Monitoring symptoms closely and seeking timely evaluation can prevent progression to more severe tendon pathology and optimize recovery outcomes. At Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C., we specialize in diagnosing and treating all forms of Achilles tendon conditions with tailored treatment plans designed for long-term foot and ankle health.

  • Ankle pain can often result from joint issues or tendinitis, both of which affect mobility and quality of life. Joint pain in the ankle typically arises from arthritis, ligament injuries, or cartilage damage, causing inflammation, stiffness, and swelling. Tendinitis, on the other hand, occurs when the tendons surrounding the ankle become inflamed due to overuse, repetitive stress, or acute injury. Symptoms include localized pain, tenderness, and difficulty bearing weight.

    Accurate diagnosis through physical examination and imaging is crucial to differentiate between joint-related pain and tendinitis. Treatment generally involves rest, ice application, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and in some cases, immobilization or corticosteroid injections. Early intervention helps prevent chronic complications and supports a faster return to normal activity. If ankle pain persists or worsens, consulting a podiatrist is recommended for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

  • Ankle sprains and fractures are common injuries that affect the stability and function of the ankle joint, but they differ in severity and treatment.

    Ankle Sprain
    An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear due to sudden twisting or rolling of the foot. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty walking. Most ankle sprains can be managed with conservative treatment such as rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and physical therapy. Severe sprains may require a brace or immobilization for proper healing to prevent long term conditions.

    Ankle Fracture
    An ankle fracture involves a break in one or more of the bones forming the ankle joint. This injury often causes intense pain, swelling, bruising, deformity, and inability to bear weight. Diagnosis is confirmed through clinical examination and imaging studies like X-rays. Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture and may range from casting or splinting to surgical intervention in cases where bones need realignment or stabilization.

    When to Seek Medical Attention
    If you experience significant pain, swelling, inability to bear weight, deformity, or numbness after an ankle injury, prompt evaluation by a foot and ankle specialist is essential. Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment reduce the risk of long-term complications such as chronic instability, arthritis, or impaired mobility.

    At Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C., our experienced team provides comprehensive care for ankle sprains and fractures tailored to your individual needs. Early and accurate diagnosis combined with expert treatment ensures the best possible recovery.

  • Braces can play a significant role in improving balance for individuals experiencing instability due to foot, ankle, or lower leg conditions. Ankle and foot braces provide external support that helps stabilize joints, reducing excessive movement and preventing falls. By limiting abnormal motion and providing proprioceptive feedback, braces enhance the body's ability to maintain proper alignment and posture during standing and walking.

    Common conditions that may benefit from braces to improve balance include ankle sprains, ligament laxity, arthritis, tendonitis, Parkinson’s Disease, patient’s with history of stroke or previous falls, and neuromuscular disorders. Depending on the patient’s specific needs, braces can range from soft neoprene sleeves to rigid orthoses that control motion in multiple planes.

    In addition to mechanical support, braces can increase confidence in movement, encouraging patients to engage in daily activities more safely. However, it is essential to have braces properly fitted and selected by a podiatrist to ensure optimal function without restricting necessary motion.

    At Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C., we assess individual balance issues and recommend braces that address underlying dysfunctions effectively, promoting improved stability and reducing the risk of injury.

  • A bunion, medically known as hallux valgus, is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, where it attaches to the foot. This deformity occurs when the big toe pushes against the adjacent toe, causing the joint to stick out and become misaligned. Bunions can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty wearing shoes.

    Common causes include genetic predisposition, improper footwear such as tight or high-heeled shoes, arthritis, and foot injuries. Symptoms may progress over time and can interfere with daily activities.

    Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the bunion. Conservative measures include wearing wider shoes, using protective pads, orthotic devices, and anti-inflammatory medications. When pain and deformity significantly impair function, surgical correction may be recommended to realign the toe and remove the bony prominence.

    If you suspect you have a bunion or are experiencing foot pain, it is important to schedule an evaluation with a podiatrist to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

  • Corns and callouses are common foot conditions caused by repeated pressure or friction on the skin. They often develop on areas such as the tops, sides, or soles of the feet, especially where the skin rubs against footwear or bones.

    Corns are small, circular, thickened layers of skin that usually form on the toes or between them. They can be hard or soft and may be painful when pressed. Hard corns typically develop on the tops or tips of toes, while soft corns often occur between toes due to moisture.

    Callouses are larger, broader areas of thickened skin, commonly found on the soles of the feet. They generally have a less defined shape than corns and tend to be less painful but can become uncomfortable if they grow excessively thick.

    Both conditions are the body’s protective response to pressure and friction but can lead to discomfort or pain if untreated.

    Causes

    • Ill-fitting shoes that cause repeated rubbing or pressure

    • Abnormal gait or foot structure leading to uneven weight distribution

    • Activities that place excessive pressure on certain parts of the foot

    Corns and callouses can be a warning sign. If corns or callouses become painful, inflamed, or persistent, it is important to seek evaluation from a podiatrist. Professional treatment may include trimming thickened skin, prescribing custom orthotics to correct pressure points, or addressing underlying foot deformities.

    At Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C., we provide comprehensive care for corns and callouses to improve your foot comfort and health.

  • Custom made arch supports provide personalized foot stabilization tailored to the unique contours of your feet. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, these supports are designed based on a thorough assessment of your foot structure, gait, and pressure points. By effectively distributing weight and reducing strain on your arches, custom arch supports can alleviate pain from conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or high arches.

    At Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C., we use advanced diagnostic tools and precise three-dimensional scanning to create arch supports that improve foot alignment and function, enhance comfort, and prevent injury. Custom made arch supports not only improve your daily mobility but can also enhance athletic performance by providing optimal support during physical activity.

    Investing in custom arch supports is a proactive step toward long-term foot health and pain relief. In some cases re-aligning the feet can improve symptoms in your knees, hips, and back. Contact our office to schedule an evaluation and start benefiting from supports designed specifically for your feet.

  • Proper diabetic foot care is essential to prevent complications such as infections, ulcers, and in severe cases, amputations. Diabetes can cause nerve damage (neuropathy) and poor blood circulation, increasing the risk of foot problems.

    Key diabetic foot care practices include:

    • Daily Inspection: Examine your feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or nail problems. Use a mirror or ask for help if you have difficulty seeing your feet.

    • Maintain Cleanliness: Wash your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap. Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes.

    • Moisturize: Apply a moisturizer to prevent dry, cracked skin, but avoid applying lotion between the toes where moisture can promote infection.

    • Proper Footwear: Wear well-fitting shoes and clean, dry socks to protect your feet from injury. Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors.

    • Nail Care: Trim toenails straight across and file edges carefully to avoid ingrown nails.

    • Avoid Heat Exposure: Do not use heating pads or hot water bottles on your feet as decreased sensation may prevent you from feeling burns.

    • Regular Medical Checkups: Schedule routine foot exams with your podiatrist to monitor foot health and address any issues early.

    If you notice signs of an infection, callouses, persistent sores, or any changes in foot sensation, seek medical attention promptly. Effective diabetic foot care reduces the risk of serious complications and promotes overall foot health.

  • Flat feet, also known as fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet are lower than normal or absent. This condition can affect one or both feet and may be present from birth or develop over time due to factors such as injury, obesity, or aging.

    Individuals with flat feet may experience symptoms including foot pain, especially in the heel or arch area, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and difficulty standing on tiptoe. In some cases, flat feet can lead to problems with alignment, causing discomfort in the knees, hips, or lower back.

    Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and imaging studies if necessary. Treatment options vary based on the severity of symptoms and may include:

    • Supportive footwear with proper arch support

    • Custom orthotic inserts to help maintain foot alignment

    • Physical therapy to strengthen foot and leg muscles

    • Activity modification to reduce strain on the feet

    • In rare cases, surgical intervention may be considered

    If you suspect you have flat feet and experience pain or mobility issues, consulting a podiatrist at Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C. is recommended for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

  • Fungal toenails, also known as onychomycosis, occur when a fungus infects one or more of the toenails. This condition often causes the nail to become thickened, discolored, brittle, and sometimes painful. Fungal toenails can affect walking and may lead to more serious infections if left untreated, especially in individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems.

    Common symptoms include:

    • Yellow, white, or brown discoloration of the nail

    • Nail thickening or crumbling edges

    • Distorted nail shape

    • Separation of the nail from the nail bed

    • An unpleasant odor

    Fungal infections thrive in warm, moist environments, making sweaty shoes and communal showers common sources of infection. Proper foot hygiene, keeping feet dry, and wearing breathable footwear can help prevent fungal toenails.

    Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the infection and may include topical antifungal medications, oral antifungal drugs, or in some cases, nail removal. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve outcomes and help prevent the spread of infection.

    If you notice signs of a fungal toenail infection, it is important to consult a podiatrist to receive a proper diagnosis and effective treatment plan tailored to your condition.

  • Hammertoes are a common foot deformity characterized by an abnormal bend in one or more of the middle joints of the toes, typically the second, third, or fourth toes. This bent position causes the toe to resemble a hammer, hence the name.

    Causes

    Hammertoes often develop due to muscle imbalance, which leads to improper bending of the toe joints. Common contributing factors include:

    • Wearing poorly fitting shoes, especially those with narrow toe boxes or high heels.

    • Trauma or injury to the toe.

    • Arthritis or other joint conditions.

    • Genetic predisposition.

    • Underlying neuromuscular disorders.

    Symptoms

    • Visible bending of the affected toes.

    • Pain or irritation, especially when wearing shoes.

    • Corns or calluses on the tops or tips of the toes.

    • Difficulty moving the toe or discomfort during walking.

    Diagnosis

    A physical examination by a podiatrist is essential. Imaging studies such as X-rays may be ordered to evaluate the extent of joint deformity.

    Treatment

    Treatment for hammertoes depends on the severity and duration of the condition:

    • Conservative Management: Wearing wider shoes with ample toe space, custom orthotic devices, toe exercises, padding to reduce pressure, and anti-inflammatory medications.

    • Surgical Intervention: In cases where conservative treatment fails, surgery may be necessary to realign the toe by releasing or repositioning tendons, or fusing joints.

    Prevention

    • Choose footwear with proper fit and support.

    • Avoid high heels and tight shoes.

    • Perform regular foot and toe exercises.

    • Seek early evaluation if toe deformity or pain develops.

    If you experience symptoms of hammertoes, consulting a foot specialist at Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C. is recommended for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment options.

  • Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone, often as a result of strain on foot muscles and ligaments, stretching of the plantar fascia, or repeated tearing of the membrane covering the heel bone. They are commonly associated with plantar fasciitis, a condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia.

    Symptoms of heel spurs may include sharp pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning, tenderness, and swelling at the front of the heel. However, some individuals with heel spurs may experience no symptoms at all.

    Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests such as X-rays to detect the bony protrusion. Treatment options focus on relieving pain and inflammation and may include:

    • Rest and activity modification

    • Stretching exercises for the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon

    • Orthotic devices or shoe inserts to provide cushioning and support

    • Anti-inflammatory medications

    • Physical therapy

    • In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be considered

    If you experience persistent heel pain, it is recommended you seek professional counsel from a podiatrist sooner rather than later as this condition can become chronic.

  • Foot infections are a common and potentially serious condition that can affect various parts of the foot, including the skin, nails, and deeper tissues. They often result from bacteria, fungi, or viruses entering through cuts, blisters, or other wounds. Symptoms of foot infections may include redness, swelling, warmth, pain, pus discharge, and sometimes fever.

    At Middle Tennessee Foot Associates, P.C., we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of foot infections to prevent complications such as cellulitis, abscess formation, or systemic illness. Our expert podiatrists provide thorough examinations, laboratory testing, and personalized treatment plans that may include antibiotics, antifungal medications, wound care, and preventive education.

    Timely intervention is critical to promote healing, reduce discomfort, and maintain overall foot health. If you suspect you have a foot infection, scheduling an evaluation with our experienced team is essential for effective management and recovery.

  • An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition most commonly affects the big toe.

    Causes:

    • Improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounding the edges)

    • Tight or ill-fitting shoes that press on the toes

    • Injury or trauma to the toenail

    • Genetic predisposition or naturally curved nails

    • Poor foot hygiene

    Symptoms:

    • Pain and tenderness along one or both sides of the nail

    • Redness and swelling around the nail

    • Possible drainage of pus or fluid if infection develops

    Treatment:

    • Soaking the foot in warm water several times a day to reduce swelling

    • Keeping the foot clean and dry

    • Wearing comfortable, properly fitting shoes with a wide toe box

    • Avoiding tight socks and nail trauma

    • Over-the-counter pain relievers to manage discomfort

    When to See a Podiatrist:

    • Persistent or worsening pain and swelling

    • Signs of infection, such as pus, increased redness, or fever

    • Recurrent ingrown toenails

    • Difficulty walking due to pain

    Medical Treatment Options:

    • Minor procedures to lift the nail edge or partially remove the nail

    • Antibiotics if an infection is present

    • Nail surgery for severe or chronic cases to prevent recurrence

    If you experience symptoms of an ingrown toenail, early intervention can prevent complications. Contact Middle Tennessee Foot Associates for prompt, professional care to relieve discomfort and restore nail health.

  • Nerve pain and neuroma are common conditions that affect the feet and can cause significant discomfort. Nerve pain, often described as sharp, burning, or tingling, results from irritation or damage to the nerves. A neuroma, specifically, is a thickening of nerve tissue that commonly occurs between the toes, most frequently between the third and fourth toes, and is known as Morton's neuroma.

    Neuromas develop due to repetitive irritation, compression, or injury to the nerve and can lead to symptoms such as sharp pain, numbness, or a burning sensation in the ball of the foot or toes. These symptoms often worsen with activities like walking or wearing tight shoes.

    Diagnosis involves a thorough clinical examination and may include imaging studies to rule out other causes. Treatment options range from conservative measures such as changes in footwear, orthotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and corticosteroid injections to more advanced interventions like physical therapy or, in severe cases, surgical removal of the neuroma.

    Early intervention is key to managing nerve pain and preventing further complications. Patients experiencing persistent foot pain or numbness should seek evaluation by a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan.

  • Plantar warts are hard, grainy growths that typically appear on the weight-bearing areas of the feet. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these warts can be painful, especially when pressure is applied during walking or standing.

    Causes and Transmission
    Plantar warts develop when HPV enters the skin through small cuts or breaks on the soles of the feet. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools, making these common places for transmission.

    Symptoms

    • Small, rough growths on the bottom of the foot

    • Thickened, callus-like skin over the wart

    • Tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels

    • Pain or discomfort when walking or standing

    Diagnosis

    Plantar Warts

    Plantar warts are hard, grainy growths that typically appear on the heels or other weight-bearing areas of the feet. Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these warts can be painful, especially when pressure is applied during walking or standing.

    Causes and Transmission
    Plantar warts develop when HPV enters the skin through small cuts or breaks on the soles of the feet. The virus thrives in warm, moist environments such as public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools, making these common places for transmission.

    Symptoms

    • Small, rough growths on the bottom of the foot

    • Thickened, callus-like skin over the wart

    • Tiny black dots, which are clotted blood vessels

    • Pain or discomfort when walking or standing

    Diagnosis
    A podiatrist can typically diagnose plantar warts based on physical examination. Sometimes, a biopsy or removal may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

    Treatment Options
    Treatment depends on the size, location, and discomfort caused by the wart. Schedule an appointment today with Middle Tennessee Foot Associates to be evaluated.

If you have a foot or ankle injury and think you may need to go to your local emergency room, give us a call first! We try hard to accommodate injuries and save you an expensive and timely visit to the ER.

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