
Podiatry: When to Seek Treatment for Foot Pain

Throughout your life, you may not be familiar with podiatry. However, if you start feeling the effects of a foot injury or some other condition with this part of your body, you will look for relief. A podiatrist has knowledge of the foot and the different issues that can affect it. You know what situations require a trip to this doctor to receive care.
Podiatry: an overview
Though a podiatrist does not go to medical school, this person is still a doctor. Podiatrists go to a podiatry school where they get education and training on the makeup of the foot. These doctors learn how to diagnose conditions such as bunions, breaks and sprains, plantar fasciitis and nerve problems. A podiatrist may prescribe drugs or perform surgery. In some situations, physical therapy may solve the condition.
The person cannot put weight on the foot
At some point in life, many people suffer an injury to their feet or toes. These incidents could occur while the person is playing sports or from an accident in a car or on a bike. Sometimes, the individual may try to “walk off” the pain or control it with over-the-counter medication or other home remedies. When a person is unable to put any weight on the foot and walk around, more extensive care is necessary. By turning to podiatry, the person can get an X-ray and have a proper diagnosis. Treatment such as a cast can usually help the injury heal.
The pain is excessive
It is not out of the ordinary to feel pain in the foot, toes or heel. After all, most people spend hours every week on their feet. This part of the body bears a lot of weight and suffers wear and tear. Occasional and moderate aches and pains should not immediately cause alarm. But, when a person struggles with continual pain, it is a good idea to get podiatry work. Also, if the pain becomes so severe that the individual cannot focus on routine tasks, a podiatrist can help.
There is a potential infection
Like any other part of the body, the feet can become infected. There are many causes for such infections, but prompt attention can relieve the symptoms. Patients should look for signs of tenderness or redness in the foot. An infection can also cause a fever.
The person is losing feeling in the foot
A loss of feeling could be related to diabetes. People who suffer from this disease often have nerve damage in the legs, which reduces the sensations of touch in the feet. Podiatry care can restore function in the feet and reduce the risk of complications and the need for an amputation.
Do not get grounded
Foot pain can make it difficult or impossible to walk around. This can limit your physical activity and hamper your daily needs. If you face any of these symptoms, find a doctor near you that practices podiatry. Schedule an appointment right away so the physician can diagnose and begin to treat your condition.
Request an appointment here: https://www.pocatellopodiatry.com or call Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic at (208) 803-0010 for an appointment in our Pocatello office.
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