What You Need to Know About Podiatrists
Podiatry is a specialization that focuses on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions affecting the lower extremities. It is a crucial medical field, particularly for individuals with foot-related issues, chronic health conditions that increase the risks of podiatric problems, or an active lifestyle.
Health professionals who specialize in this field of medicine are called podiatrists. Also referred to as doctors of podiatric medicine (DPM), they play a crucial role in managing issues that affect mobility, posture, and overall quality of life. Read on to learn more.
What Are Common Conditions Podiatrists Treat?
Podiatrists deal with a wide range of foot-related problems and conditions, catering to individuals of all ages. Some common ones include the following:
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Plantar Fasciitis
This is a foot condition characterized by the inflammation of the tissue called plantar fascia, which connects the heel bone to the toes. Plantar fasciitis often leads to heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest. Podiatrists may recommend custom orthotics, stretching exercises, or physical therapy to alleviate discomfort.
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Ingrown Toenails
Toenails become ingrown when they grow into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. To treat this foot problem, podiatrists carefully trim or remove the ingrown portion of the nail. They also offer guidance on proper nail care to prevent recurrence.
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Bunions
Bunions are bony protrusions that form at the base of the big toe, causing it to lean towards the second toe. This foot condition can result in pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing certain types of shoes. Common treatments to ease bunion symptoms are padding, orthotics, or even surgical intervention for more severe cases.
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Achilles Tendinitis
This is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, found at the back of the ankle, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition often manifests as pain and stiffness in the heel or calf area. To support proper foot function, podiatrists may suggest rest, ice, physical therapy, or, in some cases, orthotic devices.
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Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop when there’s excess pressure or friction, often caused by ill-fitting shoes or abnormal foot mechanics. An experienced podiatrist can safely remove these hardened skin patches. In addition, they may provide helpful advice, like proper foot care practices to prevent future recurrences of corns or calluses.
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Tendonitis
This is the inflammation of the tendons in the foot or ankle, typically caused by wearing improper footwear, biomechanical issues, or overuse. Podiatrists may recommend treatments, such as rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy to reduce swelling and pain, allowing for optimal tendon healing.
When Should You Seek Podiatric Care?
Although some foot and ankle problems may be treated with simple home remedies or over-the-counter medication, others may require expert podiatric care. Besides that, seemingly minor cuts or injuries may also worsen without proper treatment.
So, it’s crucial to seek professional help when experiencing any foot-related discomfort or abnormalities. Aside from persistent foot or ankle pain, here are some signs you should visit a podiatrist:
- Numbness or tingling
- Swelling and inflammation
- Thick or discolored toenails
- Cracks or cuts in the skin
- Abnormal growths, like warts
- Fungal infections
- Foot deformities
- Diabetic foot issues
- Scaling and peeling on the soles of your feet
- Sports-related injuries, like sprains or fractures
What to Expect During a Podiatry Visit
An initial consultation with a podiatrist typically involves a review of your medical history, thorough feet examination, diagnostic tests, and symptoms assessment. Doing so allows them to address various concerns, including bunions, heel and lower back pain, circulation issues, foot deformities, and ingrown toenails.
Afterward, the podiatrist will proceed with a diagnosis and treatment plan that best fits your needs. Common podiatry treatments may include orthotics, padding, physical therapy, or minor in-office procedures like nail removal or treatment for corns and calluses.
Talk to a Trusted Podiatrist Near You
Learning about podiatry and what podiatrists do can help you better decide who to consult should you experience foot and ankle problems. Aside from treating fractures and sprains to diabetes-related foot complications, these medical professionals help individuals overcome pain, improve mobility, and prevent long-term complications. Consult a reputable podiatrist if you experience any foot-related symptoms, discomfort, or injuries.
