When it comes to foot health, many people rarely consider visiting a foot doctor, in spite of the feet performing the very important function of keeping us up and going all day.
Most people only consider podiatric care when a serious problem arises. The truth is, there are many situations that suggest you need to see a podiatrist. In fact, most people experience foot or ankle symptoms on a regular basis that can be alleviated with the help of a podiatrist.
Still unsure whether you need to go see a foot doctor? Here are some signs that it’s time to schedule a visit with one:
You Have Pain or Discomfort in Your Feet
If you experience any kind of discomfort or pain in your feet, it’s best to have it checked out by a foot doctor. A common area to feel pain is on the underside of the foot, particularly the heel, where the plantar fascia can become inflamed due to overuse. The condition is called plantar fasciitis, and it is one of the top reasons why people see a foot doctor. Pain or discomfort, which could be anything from aching, stabbing pain, or sharp pain to stiffness or a burning sensation is something a qualified foot doctor can assess, diagnose, and treat.
There are Changes in Your Toenails
Discoloration of the nails can indicate a variety of issues, such as fungal infections like athlete’s foot. While over-the-counter treatments exist for some of these problems, they aren’t very effective and can lead to inadequate results. Fungal infections of the nail can cause it to become yellow and brittle, and eventually break off. Other changes, such as the nail growing inward, can cause a host of symptoms, such as severe pain and swelling. A foot doctor can effectively treat all issues related to the foot and toenails. Most foot problems related to the toes can become chronic issues without proper treatment.
You Have a Foot Deformity
If you notice any deformity in your feet, such as bumps, lumps, or misaligned bones or digits, it’s time to see a podiatrist. Common examples of abnormalities are corns, bunions, and hammertoes. Depending on your case, these issues may be treated with non-surgical or surgical methods. A foot doctor is highly trained in the treatment of foot deformities and can get you the right treatment.
You Are Experiencing Difficulty Walking
Difficulty walking without an apparent cause (such as an injury) could indicate something wrong with the bones, joints, muscles, or ligaments in your feet. It may be an underlying health problem, such as arthritis, or it may simply be improper footwear. Your podiatrist can assess your feet and check your gait and alignment to determine the cause of your walking difficulty. Then, they can recommend the right treatments to help fix the problem.
You Have Diabetic Neuropathy
People living with diabetes are at higher risk for developing diabetic neuropathy, which is a condition where nerves become damaged due to high blood sugar levels. Neuropathy can lead to serious complications, and a foot doctor can help you care for your feet properly and avoid the development of a diabetic foot. Diabetic patients should see their foot doctor regularly to preserve their limbs.
Top Foot Doctors in San Antonio, Boerne, Hondo, Floresville, Kenedy, Uvalde, and Live Oak, TX
For the treatment of common to complex foot issues, choose the highly qualified foot and ankle doctors at The Podiatry Group of South Texas. Our podiatry clinics are focused on one thing – the effective and efficient treatment of foot and ankle issues. Our doctors also give our patients advice on preventive measures against podiatric issues and complications, so they can keep such problems at bay.
Come to us for all your podiatry needs. Our friendly staff looks forward to serving you. To schedule an appointment, call our office nearest you or use our convenient online request form.
