4 Reasons You May Need to Visit a Podiatrist
Learning more about how a podiatrist can help you is a great idea if you are currently experiencing problems with your feet and/or ankles. While not all podiatrists choose to focus in one particular area, many do, making it is important to find out what area they are specialized in before making an appointment, e.g., wound care, sports medicine, pediatrics, surgical, etc.
What does a podiatrist do?
According to Advancing Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery, a podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine, a physician and surgeon who treats the feet, the ankles and related structures, such as the legs. They have undergone the education and training necessary to diagnose and treat any foot-related problems that someone is currently experiencing. They also offer preventive services.
Four reasons for visiting a podiatrist
The list below includes four reasons it would be necessary for someone to make an appointment with a podiatrist.
When a foot infection is present
Nail infections and fungal infections are two common types of foot-related infections that require a visit to a podiatry office. A fungal infection is also known as athlete's foot and tends to make the skin around the toes scaly and itchy. While over-the-counter antifungal creams are available, when they do not work, it is time to make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment.
For corns, calluses, and bunions treatment
When certain areas of the skin of the foot begin to build up due to a corn or callous, it can become so thick that it can cause various levels of pain, even making it difficult to walk. Bunions occur when the big toe's bone or joint is out of place and will only get worse until treated.
To address a foot sprain or strain
Foot sprains and strains can be treated by a podiatrist. They will provide the patient with a proper diagnosis and then accordingly offer a treatment plan in order to address the injury. While some people will try to heal this type of injury on their own, when swelling, redness or an increase in pain occurs, professional treatment is required.
When living with diabetes
When someone is diagnosed with diabetes, it increases their chances of experiencing one or more foot-related problems. Examples include dry skin, poor circulation and even serious infections. This makes it essential for anyone who is living with this disease to make regular appointments with a podiatrist in order to receive the foot care they need.
Are you in need of an appointment?
Would you like to make an appointment with a podiatrist today? When you call us to make your appointment, just let us know a convenient time for you to come in so we can get you scheduled in at that time. When you are currently experiencing any problems with your feet, the sooner you address them, the higher your chances of experiencing a successful outcome.