Your feet are probably one of the most underappreciated yet overworked parts of your body. In total, they have more bones than any other body part, and they contain approximately 250,000 sweat glands. Because feet are a lot more complex than you might give them credit for, they can also be susceptible to serious problems.
In the event that they require some TLC, you may need to take a visit to the podiatrist.
Most people won't see a podiatrist until the pain becomes too extreme, but this could spell trouble if a visit is delayed. If you experience any of the following warning signs, make sure to see a podiatrist and get the care you need as soon as possible.
Athlete's Foot
Whether you're physically active or not, anyone can pick up athlete's foot if they've been in some sort of unsanitary environment. This type of fungal infection, along with plantar warts, will affect approximately 5% of the U.S. population at any given time. Treatments for athlete's foot are available over the counter in pharmacies, but if the condition becomes severe, it can also be treated at a podiatrist's office.
Plantar Warts
Plantar warts removal is another treatment that can be done over the counter, but it may require the care of a podiatrist if the problem causes any extreme pain. Some people will seek out treatments like shockwave therapy in a podiatrist's office if the pain becomes severe enough. Shockwave treatments are typically completed every one to two weeks in order to speed up the plantar warts removal process for the patient. The treatment is complete once the pain is gone and once the plantar warts removal has concluded.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are incredibly common for all sorts of people. Those who walk or stand a lot may be especially prone to getting them. Fortunately, ingrown nail treatments are fairly easy to have applied at a podiatrist's office. A foot and ankle doctor may also be able to prescribe ingrown nail treatments made to be used at home.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be indicative of a whole host of problems with the feet. Broken bones, stress fractures, bunions, and even ingrown toenails can all cause excruciating pain when running, walking, or just sitting still. In order to properly diagnose these foot problems, it is crucial to see a podiatrist before the pain becomes unbearable. If the pain is chronic, a podiatrist might recommend treatments like shockwave therapy to reduce pain from plantar fasciitis and other conditions. Shockwave therapy fires shockwaves into the sole of the foot, which can help to dull the pain by numbing nerve endings.
Other Foot Problems
From varicose veins to flat feet, it is important to get checked out by a doctor if you have any problems with your feet. This is especially crucial for people who have diabetes. Because diabetics have poor circulation in their legs and feet, foot problems can put them at serious risk for amputation. For anyone, however, even conditions like flat feet, corns, and calluses can be cause for concern, so make sure to see a local podiatrist ASAP if you notice any abnormalities.
Have more questions about how to treat your feet? Check with our podiatrist.