Foot and ankle problems can result from chronic health concerns like diabetes or arthritis but can also be caused by everyday situations like misuse or ill-fitting shoes. Whereas most persons often resort to over-the-counter relievers or at-home therapy to address their concerns, it is not always practical. A podiatrist is more likely to provide you with faster diagnoses and care suggestions. So, how do you determine if a condition necessitates expert assessment and when you could address it with at-home therapies? Podiatry specialist Dr. Julya Keselman New York outlines some common concerns that your podiatrist can help you with. Continue reading to learn more.
1. You Experience Joint Discomfort In Your Ankles Or Feet
Arthritis is one of the most prevalent concerns in the United States. If left unaddressed, it could impair the foot’s function, resulting in disability. Consult a podiatrist if your feet’s joints are frequently inflamed, stiff, red, or sensitive. A podiatrist may recommend therapies to help you maintain joint health and make you go about your day with ease.
2. Heel Pain Is Hindering Your Activities
There are numerous reasons for heel pain, including a bony development on your heel, known as a heel spur or inflammation to one of the tendons connecting to your heel. Consult a podiatrist if you are experiencing ongoing heel pain. Your podiatrist will perform a detailed diagnosis and develop a tailored care plan for you.
3. You Have A Troublesome Ingrown Toenail
The ingrown nail could result in an infection whenever a toenail develops into the skin. This concern commonly affects the big toe. Consult a podiatrist if a toenail is increasingly red or generates a lot of discharge. Your doctor will suggest medication if the toenail is infected. Nonetheless, your specialist might remove a portion of the nail in rare circumstances.
4. You Have A Bothersome Callus Or Corn On Your Foot
Calluses and corns are some of the most prevalent reasons persons see a podiatrist. These regions of dead skin could become uncomfortable if it becomes tooth thick. Your podiatrist might suggest cortisone injections, among other procedures, to alleviate the pain.
5. You Suspect A Strain, Sprain, Or Fractured Bone
After an injury, inflammation, difficulty walking, redness, and increased discomfort are reasons to contact a podiatrist. Podiatrists are professionals at addressing strains, sprains, and fractured bones in the foot or ankle. Your podiatrist will diagnose your concern and make recommendations. Besides, the podiatrist can create a flexible cast to aid healing.
6. You Have Diabetes
Diabetes makes you more susceptible to foot problems, ranging from scaly skin to severe infections. Thus, if you have diabetes, you should see a podiatrist not less than once every year for a foot exam. Studies suggest that having a podiatrist on your healthcare team reduces the danger of amputation due to diabetes by more than half.
7. You Require Foot Surgery
For many foot issues, including bunions, fractured bones, and ingrown toenails, surgery is frequently the final option recommended by a podiatrist. If necessary, though, there is no better specialist than a podiatrist to deliver the surgery.
The importance of caring for your feet cannot be overstated! Even mild concerns could impact your general health and result in more severe circumstances when dismissed. Thus, do not hesitate to make a podiatry consultation once you observe any dubious concerns with your ankles or feet. Call the CHW Cares office or use the online booking tool to arrange a consultation with Dr. Keselman to discuss your concerns and explore your care options.
