Our feet frequently don’t receive the attention that they should be getting when it comes to wellness and care. However, their overall well-being is essential to maintain our general health, as they carry us through life. This is where a podiatrist is necessary, who is a medical specialist and focuses on treating their patients’ feet, ankles, and lower limbs. Moreover, they do much more than relieve your foot from pain and discomfort. So, let’s get to know their role in your healthy life.
What is the Role of a Podiatrist?
Podiatrists are qualified individuals who have received training to identify and manage foot health. They can help to avoid a variety of ailments that impact the lower limbs. Their areas of competence include:
- Discomfort and Injuries: They can take care of problems like fractures, sprains, and persistent discomfort.
- Skin and Nail Conditions: They can treat issues like fungal infections, warts, and ingrown toenails.
- Structural Problems: If you are suffering from structural issues, such as bunions, high arches, and flat feet, they can take care of them, too.
- Chronic Conditions: They can take care of diabetic and arthritic foot issues that you might be suffering from.
- Balance and Mobility Issues: They also assist patients with mobility and balance issues to increase stability and reduce the risk of falls.
So, to promote foot health, a foot podiatrist may also offer activities, provide prescriptions for drugs, and create custom orthotics.
When Is the Right Time to See a Podiatrist?
You must book an appointment with a podiatrist if you suffer from any of the problems listed below:
- There is a persistent pain in the ankles or feet.
- You might notice changes in the look of the skin or nails.
- There might be problems with balance, or you might be falling a lot.
- If there are any foot issues linked to long-term illnesses like diabetes.
- If you are experiencing discomfort that takes away from your quality of life or everyday activities.
Usually, it is seen that serious problems develop from simple conditions, and this can be easily avoided through early management.
What to Expect During a Visit?
The podiatrist will go through your medical history and review the previous symptoms during your visit. They will check your lower limbs, ankles, and feet. After this, they will examine your posture and gait. Based on the diagnosis, you would be prescribed a course of therapy that may involve medication, orthotics, or exercises. Moreover, the podiatrist can better evaluate the effects of the shoes you wear on your foot health if you bring them along.
Summing it Up
In interdisciplinary healthcare teams, booking an appointment with a certified podiatrist is essential, particularly when it comes to addressing chronic foot illnesses. A podiatrist’s routine foot examinations are essential for diabetics to avoid sores and amputations. Along with this, they also practice sports medicine, where biomechanical evaluations are used and customized interventions are planned, which can help athletes heal from injuries and perform better. So, if you are suffering from any foot issue, seek immediate medical help.