Podiatrists are doctors who specialize in the foot, ankles, and other leg structures. They treat patients experiencing dry heels, ankle discomfort, toe problems, or other foot-related ailments. The stakes are higher for individuals with diabetes; podiatrists are an important element of any diabetic care team, and understanding when to visit them may majorly impact someone’s overall health. Consult mid-south foot & ankle specialists today to learn more.
A visit to the podiatrist is your best chance if you have any difficulties with your foot or ankle, such as a sports injury, arthritis/joint discomfort, skin concerns, and so on. If you are suffering any of the following issues or symptoms, it is time to consult a podiatrist.
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Nail fungus
With the growing popularity of nail salons, the rate of cases of fungal infection on the toes has skyrocketed. If left untreated, the infection causes the nails to thicken and darken, potentially spreading to the other toes.
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Pain, swelling, or numbness in feet
Sore or swollen feet are common after a 10k race or standing on your feet all day. Still, sudden pain, numbness, or swelling in one foot for no apparent cause might indicate a serious condition and necessitate a doctor’s trip.
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You believe you have broken or sprained your foot.
Although an orthopedist may be your first choice, a podiatrist has greater expertise in treating foot and ankle ailments.
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Continuous heel pain
Several different factors can cause heel discomfort. To establish the core reason and design a treatment plan, a podiatrist will do an exam and obtain x-rays.
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You have diabetes
People with type 1 and type 2 diabetes are more likely to have foot issues such as poor circulation, nerve damage, ulceration, and infection. If you have diabetes, you should have a foot check once a year to help prevent these potentially severe complications.
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You have recurring athlete’s foot.
It is one of the most common fungal infections and is usually treatable with over-the-counter lotions or sprays. However, if the athlete’s foot persists, a podiatrist can prescribe a more effective cream or oral medicine and check for infection.
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Bunions
A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms outside the big toe joint. As the bunion grows in size, it can become progressively painful. An x-ray can aid in diagnosing the reason, and the podiatrist will advise on treatment choices based on the severity of the bunion.
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Ingrown toenails
You may want to remove an ingrown toenail on your own or seek assistance from a local nail salon, but it is safer (and less painful) to have it removed in the doctor’s office. If the nail has grown infected, a podiatrist might prescribe medicine to treat the infection and numb the region during removal.
