Because feet are so critical, your foot doctor is one of the most important health care professionals that you can visit. A day probably does not go by that you do not need healthy feet. These body parts allow you to be mobile, so taking care of them is vital. If you have pain or discomfort here, you can find effective treatment from your podiatrist. This professional has the knowledge to help you overcome these troubling dysfunctions.
A general physician can identify certain foot ailments and recommend treatments. However, a podiatrist has additional education and hands-on training. This doctor focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of different foot disorders. When a patient comes in complaining of foot pain, the podiatrist will examine the person’s feet. The doctor will run tests such as X-rays or an MRI.
The podiatrist will ask the patient questions about how long the symptoms have been evident. There will be a discussion about how the foot pain is affecting the person’s quality of life. Based on the information available, the doctor will diagnose the problem and prescribe an effective treatment. This may be medication, therapy or surgery, depending on the type and severity of the problem.
These common conditions can be painful, making it difficult for the person to walk or even wear shoes. A bunion occurs when the joint in the big toe gets knocked out of place. Occasionally, this joint could become abnormally large. A hammertoe is a joint that bends incorrectly. The foot doctor may give the person shoe inserts or teach the person how to stretch the toes. Surgery may be an option as well.
Toenail issues can be extremely uncomfortable. Many nail issues start because of fungus, which can infect the toe. An ingrown toenail is another frequent condition that the foot doctor will treat. This happens when part of the toenail grows into the toes instead of growing outward. To solve toenail problems, the doctor may give the patient a topical cream or ointment. Sometimes, removing the nail is the right approach.
When a person breaks or sprains a foot, toe or ankle, the foot doctor is a good person to visit for help. Fractures or sprains of the feet often happen to athletes or people involved in highly physical activities. To confirm this injury, the doctor will do an imaging test and examine the foot. Usually, stabilizing the injured bone with a cast or boot will help the person heal. In more severe cases, surgery may be required.
It is difficult to live with foot pain. The most serious issues can affect a person’s daily life and interfere with routine tasks. You should not have to suffer discomfort or irritation here. If you have any of these symptoms or conditions, visit with your podiatrist today. This doctor has worked with many patients like you, giving them the relief they need.
Get more information about Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic in Pocatello at https://www.pocatellopodiatry.com.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
