When it comes to taking care of your feet and ankles, a podiatrist plays a crucial role in ensuring your mobility and overall well-being. Podiatry is a specialized field of medicine dedicated to diagnosing, treating, and preventing a wide range of foot and ankle conditions. In this blog post, we'll delve into the various aspects of what a podiatrist does and how they can help you maintain healthy, pain-free feet.
Treating Foot and Ankle Conditions:
One of the primary responsibilities of a podiatrist is to diagnose and treat a multitude of foot and ankle conditions. These conditions can range from common issues like heel pain, plantar fasciitis, bunions, calluses, corns, and ingrown nails to more complex problems. Let's explore some of these conditions in detail:
- Heel Pain: Podiatrists are experts in identifying the root causes of heel pain, which can result from conditions like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis.
- Plantar Fasciitis: This painful condition involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Podiatrists can recommend treatment options, including custom orthotics.
- Bunions: Podiatrists can provide non-surgical and surgical solutions to address bunions, a common deformity of the big toe joint.
- Calluses and Corns: Podiatrists can safely remove these uncomfortable and often painful skin issues, helping patients find relief.
- Ingrown Nails: Podiatrists excel in treating ingrown toenails, preventing infection and offering lasting solutions.
Custom Orthotics and Footwear:
Podiatrists understand the importance of proper support and cushioning for the feet. They can prescribe custom orthotics, which are personalized shoe inserts designed to provide additional support, correct foot abnormalities, and alleviate pain. These orthotics can help patients maintain proper foot posture and reduce discomfort associated with various foot conditions. Podiatrists can also provide guidance on selecting appropriate footwear that suits individual needs and conditions.
Referring for X-Rays:
In cases where a podiatrist suspects a fracture or a more severe underlying issue, they have the expertise to order X-rays. X-rays are essential for confirming diagnoses and ensuring that patients receive the most appropriate treatment for their condition. Timely detection of fractures or structural abnormalities is crucial for effective care and recovery.
Diabetes Assessments and Doppler Screening:
Podiatrists play a vital role in diabetes management by offering specialized assessments and screenings. Diabetic patients are at risk of developing foot complications, including neuropathy and poor circulation. Podiatrists can assess diabetic patients' feet for signs of neuropathy and perform Doppler screenings to evaluate vascular damage. Early detection and management are essential in preventing serious foot complications in diabetic individuals.
Podiatrists are highly skilled healthcare professionals dedicated to the health and well-being of your feet and ankles. Whether you're dealing with common foot ailments like bunions or require specialized care for diabetic foot health, podiatrists have the expertise to diagnose, treat, and provide guidance to ensure your feet remain in the best possible condition. If you have any foot problems please don't hesitate to consult one of our podiatrists at our Capalaba podiatry and Victoria Point Podiatry clinics.
About the Author
Kent Elliot (Podiatrist). B App. Sc. Pod (Hons), B.Sc(HMS). M.A. Pod. A is the podiatrist at Active Care Podiatry at Capalaba
Kent graduated from the University of Queensland with a Bachelor of Science (majoring in Human Movement Studies) and from Podiatry at The Queensland University of Technology (QUT). During this time Kent took a special interest in exercise and conditioning training, orthotics, and plantar fasciitis. Kent has a personal interest in and has participated in many sports including rugby, athletics, boxing, tennis, and running.