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We see a lot of patients, so we get a lot of questions! Below are some of the most common questions we've been asked. Cant find your question? Contact us here!
What Does A Podiatrist Do?
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.
What Are Tendons?
Tendons are the soft fibrous tissue that connects your muscles to other structures in your body like bones or other muscles. Tendons are often confused with ligaments. Ligaments are similar, they are a fibrous tissue that connects bone to bone and helps with stability. There are multiple tendons, ligaments, muscles, and bones that make up your feet to keep you up and running.
Why Do I Have Numb Feet?
Numb feet can be caused by multiple different conditions or injuries, but usually involves a loss of feeling in the legs or feet, along with a pins and needles sensation. Diabetic neuropathy and sciatica are a few types of conditions that can cause numb feet. if you are experiencing numb feet regularly, it is important to go see a specialist so that your condition does not worsen.
How Long Will Broken Ankle Take To Heal?
A broken ankle is no fun and the recovery process is often the most frustrating part. An ankle that was broken will take anywhere from 6-12 weeks to fully heal without surgery. Sometimes it takes even longer for people. If you had surgery, it could be up to 2 years until your ankle is back to normal function/range of motion. Healing progress depends on the severity of the break, your general lifestyle and age, among other things. These factors play a large part in your recovery time. Always follow the recovery plan given to you by your doctor so that your body can heal at its own pace!
What Are My Treatment Options For Bunions?
Bunions are sometimes painful, bony bumps that appear at the base of your big toe. Typically caused by footwear or ways of walking that move your feet inward, causing your joint at the base of your big toe to jut out. Often times bunions can be healed without any corrective surgery, just by simply wearing footwear that is supportive to your foot without being restrictive. Bunions can also cause corns, calluses, hammertoes and numbness. Other treatment options are bunion tape, icing, physical therapy, and orthotic devices. If those measures are exhausted and the bunion is still present, your doctor may recommend corrective surgery to get your feet back to normal.
If you are experiencing any of these common foot and ankle problems, or your questions were not answered, contact us today to get the help you deserve. Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona has over 5 locations across the valley to help you, wherever you are.