A podiatrist is a medical specialist that treats the foot, ankle, and other parts of the leg. Also known as a foot doctor, a podiatrist may provide special foot care treatment associated with severe health issues, such as diabetes.
What does a podiatrist do?
Podiatrists have more intensive knowledge of various foot conditions and diseases. If you get burning feet or diabetic neuropathy that affects your feet, then a podiatrist is the specialist you should go to.
What are the conditions treated by podiatrists? Consider the following:
Diabetes Neuropathy
If diabetes is not controlled properly, complications such as nerve damage in the feet or legs can occur.
This condition involved a burning sensation, constant pain in the feet and a “pricking sensation”.
Thankfully, podiatrists can prevent and cure this condition. Usually, your family physician or your endocrinologist will refer you to a podiatrist if you experience this condition.
Fracture and sprains
Injuries are common involving the foot and ankle. Podiatrists take care of these fractures and injuries.
Arthritis
One of the most common conditions that older people develop is arthritis. It refers to an inflammation in the joints. It is also known as the tearing and swelling of joints or ligaments found in the foot, ankle, or knees. What do podiatrists do to treat this inflammation? Aside from the surgery or use of medications, a podiatrist may recommend physiotherapies or special shoes to cure the condition.
Other foot conditions that podiatrists treat are as follows:
- Blisters
- Warts
- Corns
- Calluses
- Ingrown toenails
- Heel pain
- Flat feet
- Hammer’s toes
- Neuromas
- Foot ligament
- Muscle pain
- Nail infections
- Foot infection
- Smelly feet
What are the risk factors involved in the above foot issues?
- High cholesterol
- Poor blood circulation
- Cardiovascular disease
- Heart attack or stroke
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Obesity
Takeaway
If you feel any pain in any part of your feet and legs, see a podiatrist immediately. Some foot issues do not show symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose an existing condition. Diagnosis is necessary to provide immediate medical care.
