10 Reasons You Need to See a Podiatrist
A podiatrist is a healthcare professional trained to assess, diagnose, and treat foot and lower limb problems. These issues can range from skin and nail problems to injuries and complications related to chronic conditions like diabetes. Podiatrists play a crucial role in maintaining the mobility and health of people of all ages. Here are ten compelling reasons to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist:
1. Aching Ankles, Legs, Hips, and Lower Back
Do you experience sore ankles, legs, hips, or lower back? This discomfort could be a sign that your feet aren’t supporting you properly. Issues like overpronation (feet rolling in) or supination (feet rolling out) and inappropriate footwear can contribute to these pains. A podiatrist can assess your foot posture, gait, and footwear to identify the root cause and provide effective solutions.
2. Ongoing Heel Pain
Heel pain can be particularly troublesome, affecting both children and adults. In children, it’s often due to Sever’s Disease, which impacts the growth plate at the heel. For adults, common causes include plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, nerve impingement, heel bruising, stress fractures, heel spurs, and Achilles tendinosis. Podiatrists are skilled in diagnosing and treating these conditions, helping you find relief and regain your mobility.
3. Sore Toenails
Sore toenails can result from ingrown toenails, thickened nails, fungal infections, or trauma. Factors like ill-fitting shoes, improper pedicure techniques, injuries, genetics, bacteria, and fungi can contribute to these issues. A podiatrist can treat infections, provide pain relief, and offer preventive care to keep your toenails healthy.
4. Diabetes
If you have diabetes, it’s essential to have your feet checked at least once a year. Diabetes can impair circulation and nerve function in your feet, increasing the risk of ulcers and infections. Symptoms to watch for include numbness, burning sensations, tingling, color changes, cold feet, sharp pains, and slow-healing cuts. A podiatrist can monitor your foot health and prevent complications.
5. Stiff Big Toe
A stiff big toe is often caused by arthritis, leading to inflammation and reduced mobility. Bunions can also contribute to stiffness and pain. Podiatrists can provide footwear advice, orthotic therapy, joint mobilization techniques, and exercise prescriptions to reduce pressure on the joint and improve its range of motion, ultimately relieving pain.
6. Itchy Feet or Discolored Toenails
Itchy feet or discolored toenails are common signs of tinea, a fungal infection that thrives in warm, moist environments. This infection can cause your feet to become itchy, smelly, red, and flaky, and it can spread to your toenails, making them thick, brittle, and discolored. A podiatrist can help diagnose and treat recurrent fungal infections, addressing any underlying causes.
7. Hard Skin or Lumps on Your Feet
Hard skin and lumps, such as corns and calluses, can develop on your feet due to increased pressure, friction, improper foot posture, or ill-fitting shoes. Podiatrists can safely remove these growths and determine their cause to prevent recurrence. Other lumps, like warts, can also be treated by a podiatrist.
8. Repeated Ankle Sprains
If you suffer from frequent ankle sprains, a podiatrist can help identify the underlying causes and develop a prevention plan. This can include strengthening exercises, balance training, and proper footwear recommendations, allowing you to move with confidence and reduce the risk of future sprains.
9. Suspected Sprains or Fractures
If you think you’ve sprained or broken your ankle or foot, a podiatrist can assess the injury and manage your treatment. They can refer you for imaging, such as x-rays or ultrasounds, to ensure an accurate diagnosis and appropriate care plan.
10. Difficulty Cutting Your Own Nails
Whether you’re pregnant, recovering from surgery, have poor vision, or simply can’t reach your feet anymore, a podiatrist can help. Regular visits for nail trimming and foot care can keep your feet healthy and prevent complications.
Our podiatrist, Lauren Bayly, is passionate about helping people with these and other foot-related issues. With her extensive training and experience, she’s ready to provide the care and support you need.
Lauren says, “Podiatry is an incredibly rewarding profession, and I get to help people every day. There’s no better feeling than someone limping into my clinic room and being able to walk out.”
Want to find out more information or book your first consultation?
Call on 7089 6666 or book online here.