5 Reasons to See a Podiatrist Today
5 REASONS TO SEE A PODIATRIST TODAY
Podiatrists are experts in treating problems in the feet, ankles, and lower legs. Their work can encompass a range of disciplines, from biomechanics and sports medicine to surgery and diabetic care. There are many reasons to visit a podiatrist, including preventative care. Here are five reasons you might consider contacting a podiatrist today.
1. YOU'RE AN ATHLETE
If you’ve started a new, regular physical activity or have become more serious about your workouts, you may benefit from the preventative care a podiatrist can offer. Running, as well as sports that require significant continuous activity—such as soccer—are particularly strenuous on the feet and ankles. A podiatrist can assess potential problems, prevent sports related injuries, recommend athletic shoes, and share effective strategies to maintain foot health as an athlete.
2. YOU HAVE DIABETES
If you have diabetes, regular checkups from a podiatrist are essential. Diabetes complications result in the amputation of 100,000 lower limbs per year. With diabetes care from a podiatrist, you can lower your risk for lower limb amputation by 85%. A podiatrist can teach you to identify the warning signs of foot-related complications, help you effectively care for your feet, and provide annual screenings.
3. YOU'RE EXPERIENCING FOOT PAIN
If you’re experiencing pain in your feet and/or ankles, it is important to see a podiatrist; your feet shouldn’t hurt. Pain might occur in the joint or heel, because of bunions, or as a result of a sprain, strain, or broken bone. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat any of these ailments and help get you back on your feet.
4. YOU HAVE A SKIN PROBLEM OR INFECTION
Podiatrists treat a variety of skin problems and foot infections and can prescribe medications that are more effective than over-the-counter products. If you have corns, calluses, or warts on your feet, you may benefit from the care of a podiatrist. Podiatrists can also treat infections, including fungal infections and chronic athlete’s foot, as well as ingrown toenails.
5. YOU'RE INTERESTED IN GETTING ORTHOTICS
Many podiatrists offer custom orthotics that give feet extra support. Custom orthotics can correct foot abnormalities, including fallen arches, collapsed arches, and high arches, protect feet from foot ulcers, and prevent injuries. They can also offer much needed support if you regularly need to stand for long periods of time. If you already have custom orthotics but haven’t seen a podiatrist recently, you may benefit from getting a new, custom pair. Orthotics should typically be replaced every two to three years due to wear and tear. New technology has also made custom orthotics more effective, enabling those with fallen arches, for example, to comfortably wear shoes with less ankle support.
Above all, caring for your feet has a positive impact on your overall health. You don’t typically need a doctor’s referral to see a podiatrist, so you can simply search the CPMA directory to find a podiatrist and make an appointment or reach out to us with more questions today.