Whilst many of us work hard to look after our bodies, one of the main parts we usually neglect is our feet. Considering we walk an average of 128,000km in a lifetime, it’s very important to ensure we take care of our feet. If you have a tooth ache, you see a dentist; if you have a headache, you see a doctor; but surprisingly a lot of people are unsure of who to see if they have pain in their feet. The answer? A podiatrist.
But what is a podiatrist?
A podiatrist, otherwise known as a chiropodist or a foot doctor, is a medically trained professional who treats the foot, ankle and related structures to the leg. A podiatrist can diagnose diseases, treat conditions and perform surgeries.
So, when should you make an appointment to see a podiatrist? There’s no simple answer to that – at Podiatry & Wellness Clinic, many of our patients see us every 6-8 weeks but it’s a different case for each individual.
To make it easier, we’ve listed below 10 different reasons to see a podiatrist.
1. You struggle to cut your toenails
If you find it difficult to reach your toenails, or maybe they’re too thick to cut, a podiatrist can cut them professionally for you. At Podiatry & Wellness Clinic, we not only cut them, we file and moisturise your feet too.
2. You need footwear advice
Podiatrists are trained to advise you on the best types of shoes to wear for your feet. If you’re suffering from foot pain, it may all be down to the type of shoes you wear. A podiatrist can help you with this and at our clinic, we have a range of great shoes to offer you. We also make personalised insoles to suit your feet.
3. You have unexplained foot pain
Podiatrists are trained to medically diagnose issues and conditions with your feet so if you have an unusual pain in your foot, ankle or lower limb, a podiatrist can perform a biomechanical assessment to help diagnose your issue and then advise you on the best treatment.
4. You have an ingrown toenail
Ingrown toenails are a common problem and podiatrists deal with them every day. A podiatrist can treat the nail for you and abolish any pain you might be feeling. At our clinic, we offer toenail surgery which is performed under a local anaesthetic and has an excellent success rate for ensuring the ingrown toenail doesn’t return.
5. You have flat feet or bunions
A podiatrist can instantly tell if you have flat feet or bunions and can advise you on treatments to make your feet more comfortable. Flat feet can often lead to leg or back pain so it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional to prevent any aches and pains getting worse. Podiatrists can give advice on orthotics, which can help slow down the progression.
6. You have corns/calluses
Corns and calluses can be quite painful so it’s important to see a podiatrist before they get too bad. A podiatrist can remove the corns/calluses and also offer advice on how to stop them coming back.
7. You’re suffering with a verruca
Verrucae can be a big nuisance and they’re difficult to get rid of. They can also be extremely painful. A podiatrist can offer you a treatment plan which could include cryotherapy, caustics or verruca needling.
8. You have plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition which affects the feet. A podiatrist will be able to diagnose this and offer a treatment and exercise plan to help you.
9. You have fungal toenails
Fungal toenails are usually thick, yellow and brittle, however a podiatrist will be able to diagnose you officially and treat the condition whilst giving you advice on looking after your feet.
10. You need total foot care
Maybe you just neglect your feet or you’re unsure of how to take care of them. A podiatrist will give you a full medical assessment, cut and file your nails, moisturise your feet and give you any other treatment or advice you need.
At Podiatry & Wellness Clinic, we treat all our patients as individuals and enjoy treating their feet. If you have any worries at all about your feet, book an appointment with your local podiatrist today…and if you’re in East Sussex, book an appointment with Lorraine or Jane at Podiatry & Wellness Clinic. Contact us here.