3 Reasons Why Visiting a Foot and Ankle Doctor is Important
UPDATED 1/21/21
Foot pain is one of those things that can interfere with your entire life. If you can’t walk correctly, then other parts of your body will begin to hurt from picking up the slack. So if you have constant foot pain when walking or constant pain in feet and ankles, it might be time to see a doctor. If you visit your primary care doctor with your concerns, they might send you to a podiatrist. A podiatrist is a foot and ankle specialist. They will be able to help you diagnose your pain and figure out what to do about it. Podiatrists see all common foot pain issues, so something that you and your primary care doctor can’t figure out might be very simple for them. Someone dealing with heel pain might think they just have to suck it up. But one visit to a podiatrist might be enough to get them on the road to recovery.
If you’re having foot pain, it is important that you tell your doctor. Seeing a foot and ankle specialist might sound like a waste of time, but it might be what relieves your pain.
Many people do not consider how important podiatry is, and why they should consider visiting a foot and ankle doctor. Individuals make think that a regular doctor is better equipped to help them, or would rather visit their normal general practitioner than go out and find a doctor who deals with foot pain or other issues related to feet. Podiatry is best handled by a professional who has experience and knows how to treat various problems. Read on to discover three reasons why going to a foot doctor is the best practice depending on the instance.
A Podiatrist Can Assist with Issues Related Directly to Foot Pain, Including Broken Bones
There are over 50 bones in a pair of feet. It should come as no surprise that at least 75% of adults have foot problems of some kind. This can range from pain to fallen arches. For individuals that are on their feet all day, this can create further issues and require them to have special supportive shoes or even braces to help them with ankle sprain problems. Some people might need corrective shoes to help with toes that have turned inward or other similar issues. A general practitioner might not be aware of the latest advancements being made when taking care of issues related to the feet. By recruiting help from a foot and ankle doctor, people can find out what types of options are available for feet, from surgery, orthopedic shoes, or even creams. A qualified podiatrist can suggest options that are best suited for an individual’s lifestyle.
A Podiatrist Understands Women Are More Susceptible to Foot Pain
Women are more likely to experience foot problems than men simply because many wear high heels. In fact, women are almost four times more likely than a man to experience problems with their feet. Qualified podiatry experts understand this, and will work with their patients to find solutions to their issue. For some women, this might involve wearing heels less or even not at all. Other options such as surgery can be discussed, or inserts to make shoes more comfortable. There are even options such as laser foot therapy, which can help patients who want more long term and sure-fire results. By discussing pain and possible causes with a foot doctor, women who have problems with their feet can find long-term solutions with the help of a medical professional.
Podiatry Experts Know the Causes and Solutions in Dealing with Ankle Issues
Problems related to the ankle are common. Over 50% of adults who had foot issues reported straining and spraining at the ankle as the main issue. A foot and ankle doctor can examine their patients, and provide them with advice on how to correct the issue. Sometimes they might encourage patients to wear supports, such as braces or other device that can aid them when doing activities such as exercising, or even working, if they are on their feet for long periods of time. Telling patients to use shoes or supports can also help to prevent problems with ankle sprains, especially if the patient mentions they are becoming a common occurrence. Doctors who are skilled in podiatry can help their patients make the best choices for their lifestyle, while offering them options that will fit within their budget and their own needs.
There are many different reasons why visiting a foot and ankle doctor is the best choice for patients who are unsure, and believe that going to their primary care physician is the best choice. Doctors who are skilled in podiatry are aware of the latest changes and options that are offered. They can make these suggestions to their patients knowing their lifestyle, needs, and degree of the foot problem they are experiencing. Podiatrists are aware that more women experience foot problems than men. They can offer them solutions that may involve giving up high heels, or even using supports or considering surgery, so they can feel pain free. Finally, a podiatrist is aware of the many different issues that can develop with ankle sprains and injuries. By working with their patients, they can provide them with solutions that allow them to stay active and healthy.
