3 Main Indicators That You Need Podiatric Services Urgently
Posted on: 27 July 2021
It's normal to experience aching feet after walking all day, especially during hot summers. After having your shoes on for a long time, you may also get blisters. All these are normal conditions that don't require medical attention. However, what do you do when you experience unexplained pains and aches on your feet? If you have a sports injury or an issue involving your ankle or foot, you need to seek podiatric services urgently.
What Is a Foot Doctor?
A foot doctor, commonly known as a podiatrist, specializes in medical problems that affect the lower legs or feet. Currently, there are about 13,320 active podiatrists in the United States. They treat a wide range of feet issues, including:
- Sprains and fractures
- Nail disorders
- Diabetes-related feet complications
- Arthritis
When Should You Seek Podiatrist Services?
Foot discomfort is normal if it occurs for a short time. However, if the discomfort becomes persistent pain, you need to see a foot doctor immediately. Sometimes, the pain might be a sign of a severe medical condition that requires immediate care.
You should see a podiatrist if you notice any of the following symptoms:
1. Nail Fungus
How do you identify nail fungus? The condition begins as a yellow or white spot under the tip of your toenail. With time, the nail discolors and thickens. Also, it crumbles at the edge. If the condition is mild, you don't need any treatment. However, nail fungus is sometimes extremely painful, and you need to see a foot doctor.
2. Swollen Feet and Ankles
Your ankles and feet may swell if you have been standing or walking a lot. However, if swelling keeps on getting worse, it may signal a serious health problem. The leading causes of swollen feet and ankles include:
- Pregnancy complications
- Ankle or foot injury
- Lymphedema
- Venous insufficiency
- Infection
- Blood clot
- Heart, kidney, or liver disease
Some of these health issues are life-threatening if not treated immediately. So, you need to seek podiatrist services as soon as you can.
3. Foot Numbness
Feet get numb if they don't get adequate blood supply. In other instances, it could be a sign of a damaged nerve. Mainly, foot numbness is associated with various conditions, such as:
- Inflammation
- Trauma
- Malignancy
- Infection
In most cases, numbness is preceded by prickling and burning sensations. Because foot numbness is essentially a sign of an underlying disorder, you should visit a podiatrist for further medical examination.
Conclusion
Sometimes, pain and discomfort in your feet are normal. However, if the problem persists, you should seek podiatrist services immediately. Always remember that specific problems in your feet, such as numbness and swelling, are signs of an underlying health problem.
For more information, contact a foot doctor in your area.
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