Ankle and foot problems can be due to diabetes, arthritis, and other chronic medical conditions. However, even everyday situations like poorly fitting or overused shoes may result in acute or temporary pain.
In this case, you need to see a podiatrist for treatment, recommendations or a speedy diagnosis.
A podiatrist offers medical care for problems related to the lower leg, ankle, and foot. These professionals perform surgery and treat and diagnose illnesses.
If you don’t know when to seek podiatry services, some of the reasons why you may need to visit a podiatrist are outlined below:
1. You have a foot infection
Fungal infections and nail infections are the most common types of foot-related infections, which may require a visit to a podiatrist.
Fungal infections tend to make the skin around the toes itchy and scaly. While there are available over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal creams, you should book an appointment with the best podiatrist near your area if you find your medications don’t work. This way, you’ll get proper treatment.
2. Heel pain affects your activities
If one of your healthy habits is to stay active, it’s common to experience heel pain, especially if you run often.
Heel pain is due to many causes. It can be that the tendons connecting to the heel are swollen or there is a bone growth on the heel which is referred to as a heel spur.
If your heel pain persists even after taking pain relief medications, it’s time to see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis. They may take X-rays and perform a foot exam, which is necessary to determine the best treatment plan for your needs.
3. You have flat feet
Fallen arches or flat feet place abnormal force on the body, which can cause pain in the heels, knees, hips, neck, back, and feet.
If you think you’ll outgrow flat feet, this can make you prone to bunions because of the abnormal pressure placed on the toe area.
Flat feet may also cause the bone to move, a bunion to form, and make your toe swing.
Although generic orthotics may help correct your foot to resume a neutral position and ease pain, a podiatrist can make orthotics specifically suited for your needs.
4. You have diabetes
When you’re diagnosed with diabetes, it increases your chances of experiencing foot-related problems. Some examples may include poor circulation, dry skin, and infections.
For anyone living with this kind of disease, consult and have an appointment with a podiatrist to get the necessary foot care.
5. You have bunions
Bunions are bumps at the base of your big toe, which happens when the joint or bone of your big toe is out of place.
One of the things you should do is wear shoes that don’t crowd your toes to experience pain relief from bunions.
Podiatrists can suggest treatments, such as medications, padding, or taping. Also, surgery can be an option in serious cases.
6. You have calluses or corns
Calluses and corns are areas of built-up skin on the foot that can be painful once they get thicker. While these aren’t serious problems, their underlying cause could be.
Issues with your foot structure or gait might cause calluses and corns. If you’re experiencing severe pain, a visit to a podiatrist is essential.
Podiatrists can recommend injections to lessen the pain. The other option they may consider, depending on your situation, is to use a surgical blade to get rid of the dead skin and soften the size of the callus or corn.
7. Ingrown toenails
Toenails grow into your skin and can cause an ingrown toenail. It affects your big toe, which can result in an infection.
Once your toenail has lots of drainages or becomes very red, it’s time to visit a podiatrist to help you get rid of that part of your nail.
If it’s infected, they’ll prescribe the medication to treat your toenail effectively.
8. To address a foot strain or sprain
A podiatrist can also treat foot strains and sprains.
They’ll provide patients with a proper diagnosis and offer treatment plans to address the injury.
While others try to heal this kind of injury on their own, professional treatment is needed to manage foot pain effectively when redness, swelling, or an increase in pain happens.
9. You have a foot deformity
A lot of people are born with foot deformities or end up having them due to injuries.
If you’ve suffered from a foot injury or you have a deformity, it’s crucial to visit a podiatrist regularly – that’s because continuous care and monitoring may help prevent further damage to your foot.
Got concerns? Speak to a podiatrist
A visit to the nearest podiatrist in your area can help address any concerns you may have and treat any problems that involve your ankle or foot.
Even if you think foot issues are ordinary and you have an active lifestyle, it’s still worth scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist to access quality podiatry services and get peace of mind.