Podiatrists are medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of common foot issues. From bunions to plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist can provide relief from a wide range of foot ailments that can affect the feet, ankles, and lower legs.
Some of the common foot issues treated by a podiatrist include bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, heel spurs, arch pain, arch strain, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, ankle sprains, and neuromas.
A bunion is a painful deformity that occurs when the big toe joint becomes enlarged and points inward. The bunion can cause pain and difficulty walking, among other ailments. To treat a bunion, a podiatrist may recommend lifestyle changes such as wearing wider shoes and using custom orthotics. In more severe cases, a bunionectomy may be necessary to remove the bunion.
Hammertoes are another type of foot issue that can be treated by a podiatrist. What is a hammertoe? It’s a deformity of the toes in which the middle joint of the toe is bent downward. This can cause the toe to rub against the shoe and can lead to pain and difficulty walking. To treat hammertoes, a podiatrist may prescribe wearing special shoes or even custom orthotics, in addition to daily exercises to stretch and strengthen the toe muscles. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the toe.
Plantar fasciitis is another foot issue you’ll want to see your podiatrist to treat. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the feet. This can cause pain and stiffness in the feet and ankles, especially after prolonged standing or walking. To treat plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist may advise specific lifestyle changes such as wearing supportive shoes and using custom, prescribed orthotics. Physical therapy and corticosteroid injections may also be necessary to reduce pain and to calm inflammation. Use the infographic we’ve provided here to better understand common foot issues like these, and how you can find relief at your local podiatrist.
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