Many people experience foot and ankle complications in their adulthood. However, most patients don’t seek podiatric health care.
Most people don’t know that foot and ankle complications can affect physical health if not treated. Moreover, some foot complications could indicate underlying health complications that require diagnosis and treatment.
You can find treatment for all foot-related complications from a specialist. However, your treatment starts by visiting a podiatrist for a comprehensive diagnosis.
Here are the top 10 reasons to visit a podiatrist.
- You Are An Athlete
Athletes face a higher risk of ankle sprains, fractures, and aches due to frequent joint movement around the feet.
A podiatric healthcare office such as richardson podiatry can assess your feet and help you identify potential complications. In addition, the doctor will recommend treatment options, including the correct type of shoes to wear.
- You Experience Heel Pain
You may experience heel pain from a bony growth or an inflamed tendon that connects to the heels. Persistent heel pain may limit mobility or prevent you from performing normal daily activities.
If you experience persistent heel pain, it may be time to visit richardson podiatry for a foot examination and diagnosis.
- You Suspect a Fracture Or Sprain
A fracture is a partial or complete breakage of a bone. On the other hand, a sprain is the tearing apart of the ligaments connecting the joints.
Fractures and sprains on the feet usually occur from sports injuries or missed steps. Regardless of the cause, they typically lead to pain around the affected area.
A podiatrist’s office should be your first stop if you suspect a fracture or sprain around the feet.
- You Have Frequent Joint Pains
Frequent joint pains are a sign of many underlying conditions, including arthritis. However, if the joints around the feet are equally painful and swollen, a podiatrist can diagnose the situation and identify the possible cause.
- You Notice Stubborn Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows towards the skin instead of upward. The nail curves deep inside the skin, causing pain and discomfort. Ingrown toenails commonly affect the big toe and may trigger other infections if not treated.
If you have obvious signs of ingrown toenails, the time may be ripe to see a podiatrist. The doctor may cut the overgrown portion of the nails and apply special solvents to prevent further growth of the toenails.
- You Have An Inflamed Sole
Sole inflammation is a common foot condition that affects the soft tissues near the heel bone. Lifestyle factors such as wearing new shoes or frequent traveling often build pressure on the sole, triggering the condition. An inflamed sole will usually come with severe pain when you stand, sit or walk for long hours.
- You Experience Painful Bunions
Bunions are the bumps of bony mass that form at the base of the big toe. They usually occur from a natural misalignment of the joint near the toe.
Although most people think wearing tight shoes causes bunions, the primary reason is usually genetic. Bunions may get worse if not treated.
If you notice bunions on your big toe, visit a podiatrist for specialized care. The doctor will recommend various treatment options, including surgery where necessary.
- You Have a Fungal Infection
An athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that forms scaly, itchy patches between the toes. Some over-the-counter medication can quickly relieve an athlete’s foot and restore your health. However, if you have an athlete’s foot that doesn’t seem to heal, you may need specialized treatment from a podiatrist. The doctor will also examine the affected part for signs of bacterial infections.
- You’re Diabetic
Diabetes is a common trigger of foot complications such as cracking, swelling, or soreness of the skin around the feet. Doctors recommend having a foot examination every year if you have diabetes.
Through a professional examination, the doctor will identify possible complications before they become life-threatening.
- You Have a Hammer Toe
A hammer toe is a condition in which your toes curve downward instead of upward. The toe flexes downward due to an imbalance between the tendons and the muscles on the toes. A hammer toe can be severe and painful without treatment.
Thankfully, the condition is treatable using specialized techniques by a podiatrist.