There are many specialties in medicine. Perhaps you have a family doctor and occasionally go to a dermatologist. But how do you know when to see a podiatrist? We are so glad you asked! Best Foot Doctor NY offers consults and treatment options for many foot conditions, injuries, and structural abnormalities. Below are just a few of the many reasons that may prompt you to see a podiatrist. If you are experiencing foot pain, inflammation, or other symptoms that are not improving with at home treatments, contact a doctor.
Foot Conditions
Neuroma
Excessive pressure on a nerve causes a neuroma. Patients typically describe feeling like there are pebbles or a bunched-up sock under their foot. Metatarsalgia, pain at the ball of the foot, may be an indication of a neuroma. A podiatrist can determine if your pain is due to nerve injury and suggest treatments to relieve the pressure or remove the nerve entirely.
Bunions
A bunion is a prominent outgrowth of the bone of the large toe. If it continues to grow and becomes painful you should consult a podiatrist. Left untreated, bunions can lead to other conditions such as hammer toe (large toe bending inward) and cause worse pain and difficulty walking. Both large bunions and hammer toes are best corrected by surgery.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are common but can result in serious infections if not treated promptly. If the area shows signs of infection such as redness, pain, and swelling, see a podiatrist. They can help to treat the infection and prevent reoccurring ingrowths.
Injuries
Plantar Fasciitis
Pain across the sole of your foot may be an indication of plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tough ligament there. Podiatrists can evaluate your foot and recommend surgery or custom orthotic inserts to relieve your pain and better support the plantar fascia.
Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon connects your heel to your calf muscle. Inflammation or injury is very painful and may be paralyzing. If you are experiencing pain, tightness, or limited movement in your heel, a podiatrist can evaluate you and help to prevent further injury. There are several treatments available from symptomatic support to laser therapy and surgery. Contact a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment options.
Structural Abnormalities
Haglund’s Deformity
Pain at the back of the heel may be an indication of a heel spur, also known as Haglund’s deformity. Shoes with stiff backs, genetic predisposition, high arches, and walking on your heels can add pressure to the heel bone and cause a heel spur which in turn causes inflammation, swelling, and pain. Sometimes it is enough to treat the pain with over-the-counter pain medication and find better-fitting shoes. However, severe cases usually require surgery to remove the heel spur.
Foot pain doesn’t have to be scary. And it is just one of the reasons you may need to see a podiatrist. If you think you may be experiencing one of these conditions, please contact us at Best Foot Doctor NY. We are ready to serve you!