Most people see a primary care doctor for every possible health issue. However, this is not the right thing to do. There are experts better equipped to treat you for a variety of medical subfields. An example is a podiatrist, a specialist of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists are health care providers who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle injuries and conditions. They have special education and training on the health and structures of the feet and ankles as well as knowledge on how to best treat them. As such, they are the best type of physicians to consult when you need a diagnosis or treatment related to your lower limbs.
Conditions and Injuries Treated By Podiatrists
There are numerous conditions and injuries that affect the foot and ankle – many that you probably don’t even know about. However, podiatrists are familiar with every possible problem that could be ailing you. The following are some examples:
- Foot pain
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis or rupture
- Foot and ankle arthritis
- Corns, calluses, and blisters
- Dry and cracked heel
- Heel spurs
- Thickened and ingrown or infected toenails
- Structural issues
- Foot and ankle fractures
- Skin growths
- Bad foot odor
- Gout
- Deep vein thrombosis
Podiatrists also provide specialized care to patients with diabetic foot issues and structural deformities (congenital and non-congenital). Finally, not only do podiatrists treat existing conditions or injuries, they also help prevent future issues through early intervention and preventive care.
When Do You Need To See A Podiatrist?
Determining when you need a podiatrist can be a little difficult if you aren’t familiar with what they do. As a general guideline, you should see a podiatrist when you have pain, stiffness, numbness, or other symptoms that last longer than a few days. Also, if you have diabetes or have suffered an injury to your foot or ankle, it is a good idea to see a podiatrist on a regular basis or until fully healed. Finally, regardless of whether you have any symptoms at all, make sure to see a podiatrist at least once a year for a checkup. Your podiatrist will thoroughly check your feet and ankles for any issues that you may not have noticed yourself. This can save you from problems in the future.
Comprehensive Foot and Ankle Care in St. Peters and O’Fallon, Missouri
Our compassionate and highly-skilled podiatrists at Advanced Bone & Joint are happy to diagnose and treat any foot or ankle issue you may be having. They can also help you keep your feet healthy through preventive care.
When you visit us, we will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your feet and ankles, and carefully assess your symptoms. We will then recommend a highly customized treatment plan that will fix any injury or condition you may have.
To request an appointment with the top podiatrists in Missouri, call Advanced Bone & Joint at (636) 229-4222 or submit a request now. Our friendly staff looks forward to serving you soon.