10 Causes to See a Podiatrist

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According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, civilian workers stood for an average of 4.17 hours each day last year. Whether you're jogging, walking, or standing for extended periods of time, your feet are always working. If you're having foot difficulties, it might be time to see a podiatrist. A podiatrist is a medical practitioner who specializes in foot and ankle treatment. Podiatrists use the D.P.M. title, which stands for Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. There are various reasons you may need to see a podiatric doctor.

1. Foot or Heel Discomfort

Foot or heel discomfort are frequent reasons for visiting a podiatrist. Foot or heel discomfort can be caused by a variety of factors, including injuries, overuse, and medical diseases such plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, Achilles tendinitis, and arthritis. A podiatrist may evaluate the source of your foot or heel discomfort and offer the best treatment, which may involve R.I.C.E. or P.O.L.I.C.E., stretching exercises, physical therapy, medication, or customized orthotics.

2. Foot and Ankle Injuries

Sprains, strains, and fractures are frequent foot and ankle injuries that can result from a range of activities, including sports, exercise, or just walking on uneven ground. A podiatrist can determine the degree of the damage and recommend proper treatment, which may involve immobilization, physical therapy, non-surgical therapies, or surgery in extreme situations.

3. Bunions

Bunions are bony lumps that develop at the base of the big toe, causing it to bend toward the other toes. They can cause discomfort and make it difficult to wear shoes. A podiatrist can advise you on how to treat bunions, which may involve wearing special shoes, utilizing orthotics, or in extreme situations, surgery (bunionectomy).

4. Hammertoe

Hammer toe is a condition in which a toe bends downward at its middle joint. The second toe is the most likely to be damaged, however the deformity can also develop in other toes. Occasionally, more than one toe is impacted.

5. Flat Feet

Flat feet (or flat foot) occur when the arch of the foot collapses, causing the entire foot to contact the ground. This can cause discomfort and lead to more foot issues. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat flat feet using orthotics, physical therapy, or other methods.

6. Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails develop when a toenail's edge grows into the skin, resulting in discomfort, redness, and edema. If left untreated, ingrown toenails can get infected. A podiatrist can remove the ingrown section of the nail and advise on how to avoid it from occurring again.

7. Fungal Toenail Infections

Fungal toenail infections may be ugly, causing the nails to thicken, discolor, and brittle. They may also be difficult to treat with over-the-counter medications. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat fungal toenail infections using prescription drugs, laser therapy, or other methods.

8. Plantar Warts

Plantar warts are caused by a virus and manifest as tiny, rough growths on the soles of the feet. They can be unpleasant and difficult to eradicate with over-the-counter remedies. A podiatrist can eradicate plantar warts using a number of treatments, including laser therapy.

9. Gout

Gout is a kind of arthritis. It causes discomfort and swelling in the joints. For many people, it begins with the big toe. Gout is treated with drugs, frequent exercise, and weight loss.

10. Diabetic Foot Care 

Diabetic foot issues can range from moderate to severe, and may include:

- Neuropathy

Nerve injury in the foot can produce tingling, numbness, and burning sensations. This may make it harder to identify injuries or illnesses;

- Peripheral arterial disease

Diabetes can damage the blood arteries in the feet, lowering blood flow to the area. This can cause poor wound healing and an increased risk of infection;

- Foot ulcers

Foot ulcers are open sores on the foot that can be difficult to treat. They can get infected, resulting in more severe consequences;

- Charcot foot

Charcot foot is a disorder in which the bones of the foot deteriorate and may shatter or move out of position. This can distort the foot, making it difficult to walk;

- Infections

Diabetes can impair the immune system, making it difficult to fight infections. This can result in catastrophic foot infections that extend to the bone, necessitating amputation in extreme cases.