Foot health plays a helpful role in our daily lives, yet it may be overlooked. Whether walking, running, or standing for long periods, our feet bear the impact of nearly everything we do. When foot issues or pain arise, a podiatrist can help diagnose the pain and provide a treatment plan. Here is more information on what podiatrists do, the conditions they treat, the treatments they offer, and why visiting one could benefit you.
What Is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a medical professional specializing in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of conditions affecting the feet and ankles. They undergo education and training, including earning a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree and completing residency programs with a focus on lower extremity health. Podiatrists treat individuals of all ages, from children with developmental concerns to adults managing chronic conditions. Their expertise spans various specialties, including trauma treatment, diabetic foot care, and surgical interventions.
What Do Podiatrists Treat?
Podiatrists address a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. These include common problems such as bunions, corns, warts, calluses, and ingrown toenails. They also help manage more complex conditions like heel pain, sprains, fractures, gout, and flat feet.
These foot specialists also play a key role in managing foot-related complications from chronic health conditions. For individuals with diabetes, they provide wound care. Other conditions they treat include lymphedema, peripheral arterial disease, hammertoe, and arthritic conditions.
What Treatments Do Podiatrists Offer?
A podiatrist provides a variety of treatments tailored to the specific needs of their patients. Non-invasive treatments might include orthotics, customized shoe inserts that improve fit and alignment. They also offer physical therapy exercises to strengthen muscles and improve mobility.
For certain conditions, podiatrists may perform in-office procedures, such as removing ingrown toenails or draining cysts. They also conduct surgical interventions for issues requiring more advanced care, like repairing torn tendons or correcting foot deformities. Preventive care, like routine check-ups and guidance on proper footwear, is another service these specialists recommend to maintain long-term foot health.
Why Should You Visit a Podiatrist?
Visiting a podiatrist can address ongoing issues or pain in your feet and ankles. For many people, these symptoms interfere with daily activities and diminish overall quality of life. Podiatrists use thorough evaluations to determine the underlying causes of these issues and develop personalized treatment plans.
Routine visits are especially valuable for individuals with conditions like diabetes or arthritis, as these can lead to complications that require expert attention. Even those without specific concerns can benefit from consultations to identify potential problems early, preventing them from worsening over time. By receiving professional, specialized care, you can feel a reduction of pain in the feet and improve daily performance and functioning.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Your feet play a foundational role in your overall wellness. Whether you’re dealing with pain, require ongoing care, or want to make sure your feet stay healthy, a podiatrist can provide expert assistance. Take the first step toward better foot health by scheduling an appointment with a trained podiatrist. With their guidance, you can move forward with healthier feet.