Our feet work hard every day, carrying our full body weight through work, errands, exercise and all our daily activities. Since foot pain is so common, many people try to just grin and bear it. Nevertheless, ignoring foot issues might lead to bigger problems down the road. To that end, knowing when to visit a podiatrist or foot doctor is crucial for promptly diagnosing and treating the root cause.
Persistent Pain
Any lingering foot or ankle pain that lasts more than a few days deserves medical evaluation by a skilled foot doctor. Attempting to “walk it off” or push through the discomfort increases your risk of worsening the underlying condition or even suffering an acute injury.
Consult a podiatrist right away if you experience severe, limiting pain in your feet, ankles, heels, arches, or toes that doesn’t improve with rest and over-the-counter remedies. A foot doctor can properly diagnose and treat common painful issues, like:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinitis
- Arthritis
- Capsulitis
- Neuromas
- Stress fractures
- Sprains and strains
Finding and treating the source prevents foot pain from becoming chronic and potentially disabling.
Non-Healing Wounds or Sores
Persistent sores, ulcers, or wounds anywhere on the feet or ankles that haven’t started healing within a couple of weeks require evaluation by a foot doctor immediately. This is especially critical for those with diabetes, peripheral artery disease or neuropathy, as non-healing foot wounds increase the risk of amputation risk.
Visible Foot Deformities
Many parents notice visible foot deformities in their children, such as in-toeing, flat feet, toe walking or other abnormalities with bones, tendons, and structures. While not always problematic, a pediatric foot doctor can best evaluate these issues to monitor development and provide any necessary treatment or orthotics.
Adults with bunions, hammertoes, bone spurs or other visible foot deformities should also promptly seek podiatric care. Foot doctors can recommend remedies like padding, bracing, orthotics, physical therapy, or surgery to correct deformities before they worsen.
The experts at Commonwealth Foot and Ankle say that when searching online for “foot doctor near me,” you should look for those experienced in treating your particular deformity or condition.
Fungal Nail Infections
Thick, yellow, crumbly toenails are typically caused by a fungal infection. While over-the-counter topicals may help mild cases, fungal nail infections often require prescription oral or topical medication from a podiatrist.
Left untreated, fungal nails can become thick and painful. The infection also puts those with diabetes or compromised immunity at higher risk of complications, so it’s best to get it treated promptly.
Ingrown Nails
Ingrown toenails are both exceptionally painful and prone to becoming severely infected if not treated properly. While you can try soaking the toe and applying antibiotic ointment initially, visit a foot doctor if it doesn’t start draining and healing within a couple of days.
Podiatrists can partially or fully remove ingrown nails, allowing the area to heal. They can also identify and address any underlying causes like improper nail trimming, ill-fitting footwear, poor foot structure, etc.
Deteriorating Foot Health
As we age, our feet can lose cushioning and become more prone to corns, bunions, neuromas, and mobility challenges. Older adults are also at higher risk of circulation issues, numbness, balance problems and falls.
Rather than just accepting these age-related foot declines, schedule regular preventative visits with a foot doctor, even before serious issues arise. Podiatrists can monitor foot health, make treatment recommendations, provide footwear advice, and help maintain stability and independence.
Conclusion
While foot pain and problems are very common, many cases should be promptly evaluated by an experienced foot doctor to get proper relief and prevent worsening issues. Listen to your body, don’t delay treatment, and see a podiatrist anytime foot discomfort limits your daily activities.
