Your foot and ankles are the parts of your body most prone to injuries or conditions that inhibit their efficient function. These injuries are even more prevalent in people who do frequent physical activities or as athletes. The foot and its surrounding parts already undergo overuse due to their role in mobility. Extra exert by physical activity, or sports activities make them injured more easily. Due to athletes’ need to constantly use this body part, its conditions need to be looked after by an Alamo Heights podiatrist. More about who and what a podiatrist does is discussed below.
Who is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a medical professional with expertise and training to deal with issues involving your lower legs or feet. Despite podiatrists not going to traditional medical school, their schools enable them to deal with injuries or complications from underlying health problems like diabetes.
They can reset broken bones, perform surgeries, and order x-rays or lab tests. It is typical for you to find a podiatrist working with other specialists to treat issues involving your lower legs or feet.
Podiatrists can deal with multiple issues or ailments irrespective of their age. These include:
Morton’s Neuroma
This condition involves nerve issues between your foot’s third and fourth bones, causing a burning, painful sensation of something in your shoe. This mainly affects runners and is worsened by overpronation and tight shoes. Injections for the pain and swelling can be administered, while orthotics can also be beneficial. A last resort surgery option is available if the need arises.
Heel Pain
Pain in the heel can arise from heel spurs, which are an accumulation of calcium beneath your heel bone. Obesity, running, or ill-fitting shoes can cause this issue. Another cause of heel pain is Plantar fasciitis which involves swelling of the connective tissue found along the bottom of the foot due to unsupportive sports shoes.
Overpronation involves your foot bending out or in too far when walking can cause heel pain in athletes. Another cause is Achilles tendinitis causing pain and discomfort where your tendon attaches to the heel. These issues can be treated through medications or inserts into your shoes with rare cases needing surgery.
Nail Disorders
An ingrown nail causes an infection on your toe as the corner of your nail grows towards it instead of outwards. A fungus may also cause an infection in your toe.
Sprains and Fractures
These typical injuries affecting your ankle or foot can be treated by podiatrists, especially those engaging in sports. Podiatrists may also offer advice on how to avoid such injuries.
Arthritis
This common issue comes from swelling and inflammation of your joints due to wear and tear. This is encouraged by the large number of joints found in each foot. Treatment solutions by a podiatrist involve medication, physical therapy, or special inserts in your shoes. If other treatments prove ineffective, surgery can be recommended.
Considering you need your foot and its associated features to do most mundane tasks without help, foot injuries can affect your quality of life. A podiatrist offers specialised care that ensures these injuries do not return. For any podiatrist inquiries, check our website or call our offices in Alamo Heights, TX.
