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A new season means a fresh start! We thought it would be helpful to head into March with some of your most common FAQ's about foot and ankle health answered so you can focus on staying happy and healthy!
What is a podiatrist?
A podiatrist or D.P.M (Doctor of Podiatric Medicine) is someone who is highly trained and qualified to diagnose and treat injuries or problems related to your feet or lower legs. They can do things for you like order X-rays, perform surgeries, and prescribe medications! Podiatrists also work with other types of specialists and doctors, like our certified M.D that specializes in regenerative medicine.
This ensures you get the best level of care during your time with us. You might visit a podiatrist if you are looking for callus care, senior foot and ankle care or even just a normal check-up.
Why would I see a podiatrist?
You should see a podiatrist if you feel pain or have problems with your feet, ankles or lower limbs such as discolored skin/nails, skin rashes, foot odor, foot ulcers or foot injuries.
It is also good to see a podiatrist if you have diabetes, arthritis or tripping and falling issues. They can also help if regular shoe comfort is a problem. Healthy feet are an important part of your overall wellbeing. Foot problems can affect your quality of life, so see a podiatrist if you need help.
What are the most common foot issues that you treat?
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common ailment leading to heel discomfort. This condition arises when the tissue strip linking the heel bone to the toes, gets inflamed. Typically experienced as a sharp, piercing pain, it tends to be most severe during the initial steps after waking up or following long durations of sitting. This issue can greatly affect everyday life, turning simple tasks such as walking or standing for long periods into difficult and painful endeavors.
Bunions
A bunion is a protruding bone formation at the base of the big toe, occurring where it joins the foot. This condition emerges when the bones in the front section of the foot shift from their normal position. This displacement results in the big toe being drawn towards the smaller toes, making the joint at the big toe’s base jut out. Bunions can be a source of persistent discomfort and may give rise to additional foot issues, including corns, calluses, and hammertoes.
Athlete’s Foot
The condition called Athlete’s foot occurs in a lot more people than just athletes. It’s a fungal infection that develops in the moist areas between the toes and sometimes on other parts of the foot. It can look like itchy, red, cracked skin and can be quite uncomfortable. The fungus thrives in warm, damp environments like gym locker rooms and swimming pools.
Foot Injury
Foot injuries range from sprains and fractures to tendon damage. Individuals engaging in high-impact sports or those walking or running on uneven surfaces are at a higher risk. Wearing high heels or shoes that do not fit correctly also significantly increases the likelihood of injury.
To prevent common injuries, it is crucial to wear appropriate footwear, maintain flexibility and strength in foot muscles, and exercise caution during physical activities. Regular exercise and proper form in sports activities can also help in reducing the risk of foot injuries. More severe injuries might need the help of a foot injury doctor.
Diabetic Foot Conditions
For those with diabetes, foot health demands extra attention. Diabetes can lead to various foot problems, often because of nerve damage and poor circulation.
Nerve damage can numb the sensations in your feet, making it difficult to detect any injuries or irritation. Poor circulation decreases blood flow to your feet, reducing your body’s ability to manage any problems such as wounds or infections. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist, proper footwear, and diligent foot care are vital for diabetic patients to prevent serious complications.
Do podiatrists accept health insurance?
Almost all podiatrists accept insurance. Our practice accepts lots of plans, click here to see a comprehensive list or call our office to see if you have coverage with us! Some podiatrists accept limited insurance, or none at all, usually it's best to contact the podiatry office you want to visit and check with them.
Is foot pain normal?
No, foot pain is not normal. If you are suffering from foot or ankle pain, it is important that you see a podiatrist before the problem worsens and becomes harder to treat. Many people can try home remedies and they may work. However, lingering foot pain is a sign of a problem that must be handled by a professional.
Foot and ankle pain can develop from everyday injuries or sports injuries. Other causes of pain are from too much activity, improper foot support and excessive weight. This can lead to heel pain, arch pain and pain in the ball or the top of the foot.